There is a specific kind of madness reserved for those of us who decide to move house during the festive period. In theory, it sounds like a Hallmark movie: "New Year, New Home!" You imagine yourself sipping cocoa by a roaring fire in your new living room while snow falls gently outside.
In reality? You are standing in a kitchen full of brown cardboard boxes, realise you’ve packed the kettle in a box labeled "Miscellaneous — Study," and you’re currently using a roll of festive glitter tape to seal a box of heavy boots because you ran out of the industrial stuff three hours ago.
To put it bluntly: I am absolutely shattered.
The "Shattered" Scale
If you’ve never moved in December, imagine the physical toll of a marathon combined with the mental load of hosting Christmas dinner, all while living in a temporary state of "where is my toothbrush?"
The exhaustion of a festive move is unique because:
- The Days are Short: You’re losing light by 4:00 PM, making every trip to the moving van feel like a midnight covert operation.
- The "Double Decorating": You have to decide whether to unpack the essentials (plates, underwear, towels) or the Christmas tree. (Spoiler: The tree usually wins, even if it’s just sitting in a corner with one string of lights draped over it for morale).
- The Bone-Deep Tiredness: It’s that specific fatigue where your knees ache, your brain is "mush," and the thought of cooking a meal feels like a Herculean task.
Finding the Magic in the Mess
Despite the exhaustion and the fact that I’m currently 90% caffeine and 10% bubble wrap, there is something quietly beautiful about a new beginning at this time of year. Last night, amidst the chaos, I found a small candle, lit it, and sat on a packing box. For five minutes, the house was quiet. No tape-tearing, no heavy lifting; just the realisation that this new space is finally ours.
We often feel we have to be "on" during the holidays; performing, hosting, and keeping every tradition alive. But if you’re moving, or just feeling overwhelmed, I’m here to give you permission to be tired. It’s okay to have a "minimalist" Christmas (read: dinner on paper plates) if it means protecting your peace.
The Ultimate Escape (No Unpacking Required)
When the physical world feels like a mountain of chores and "To-Do" lists, the best place to hide is between the pages of a good story.
I know that when I’m too tired to even watch TV, a book is the only thing that truly lets my brain switch off. If you’re looking for an escape from your own "box-filled" reality, or if you need a perfect gift that doesn't require assembly, I’d love for you to check out my books.
Whether you’re looking for a gripping mystery, a heart-warming romance, or a journey to another world, my stories are designed to be your sanctuary. You can download them instantly to your e-reader (no boxes to carry!) or order a physical copy to tuck away for the new year.
Thank you for supporting my work, especially now. Your support means I can eventually stop staring at these boxes and get back to what I love most: writing the next story for you.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I think I’ve finally found where I packed the mugs.