Some of you know this about me, and some of you don’t—I work a lot.
I work full-time as a Coordinator in the Office of General Counsel for a state agency, a role I genuinely love. I’ve been with the agency for seven years, and over that time the workload has steadily increased. While that may sound daunting, it’s actually a blessing—it means meaningful work that serves the citizens of our state. Along the way, I’ve also been grateful to receive promotions and raises, which affirmed both my dedication and growth.
Because I take a lot of pride and ownership in my work, stepping away isn’t always easy.
Learning to Step Away Without Guilt
I officially took six days off, which turned into sixteen days once holidays and weekends were included. To be honest, I was a little worried about coming back to stress or backlog.
Not because I don’t work with capable people—I absolutely do—but because I care deeply about my responsibilities. I never want to feel like I’m leaving extra work for someone else to carry.
But something unexpected happened.
Everything that needed to be accomplished… was accomplished. The systems held. The people stepped in. And I was able to take time off without worry.
That was a quiet but powerful reminder: it is okay to rest.
Intentional Rest Starts with Gentle Productivity
I had goals for my time off—not to stay busy, but to rest and relax, while also handling a few things that had been lingering.
The weekend before my first Monday off, I did exactly what I wanted: nothing beyond my usual weekend routines. And that felt right.
Then Monday came.
I made a to-do list and knocked off everything except three items. One of the biggest tasks was decluttering the linen closet in our guest bathroom, which also doubled as storage for extra kitchen supplies. Every time I opened that door, it felt overwhelming.
But I tackled it—and we gave away so much.
That momentum carried me through the day:
- Wrapping remaining unwrapped presents
- Treating myself to a coffee (something I really wanted)
- Writing a book review
- Writing and pre-scheduling blog posts through the new year
- Pre-recording vlog content
It felt productive without being draining.
Progress in the Ordinary
Tuesday was quieter but grounding:
- Running errands
- Putting away laundry that had been waiting
- Paying bills
None of it was glamorous—but all of it created peace.
Christmas Eve: Listening to What My Body Needed
Wednesday—Christmas Eve—arrived without plans.
I woke up with a headache so intense it felt like it had its own heartbeat. After being up briefly with my husband and the dogs, I listened to my body and rested on the couch until later in the morning.
Instead of forcing productivity, I asked a gentler question: What would help me feel accomplished without pushing myself?
The answer came naturally.
Creating Space—Physically and Mentally
I made another donation run to Goodwill, grabbed a coffee (because why not), and then stood in my front room—my office space—and realized it was time.
That space has now been decluttered.
I have:
- Four small boxes headed to Goodwill
- One box and bag being donated to a local teacher for her classroom
My desk is now manageable. Does it still need some refining? Probably. But I feel lighter, clearer, and accomplished—and that matters.
Letting the Rest of the Day Be Enough
So what’s left for the day?
We need a new collar for our growing puppy. I may need sour cream from the store. I’m making prime rib for Christmas Eve dinner, with leftovers planned for Christmas Day.
I might work in my planners. I might read some of the book I’m currently reading.
But here’s the truth—it doesn’t matter.
I’m on holiday.
Why I’m Sharing This
You might be wondering why I’m sharing all of this.
The answer is simple: gratitude.
Grateful for time off. Grateful to donate items that no longer align with this season of our lives. Grateful for a home that holds us.
Every day is a good day to express gratitude—but there is something especially powerful about Christmas Eve.
Gratitude Through Faith and Love
Perhaps it’s the magnitude of what Christmas represents.
The love of Mary, who carried and nurtured the Son of God. The love of Jesus, who endured crucifixion and resurrection, giving His life for all of us—a sacrifice we’ll reflect on again in the spring. The love of God, who created us in His image, offered forgiveness, and continues to extend grace.
Whether through faith, reflection, or simple presence, Christmas invites us to pause and recognize love in its purest form.
Final Thoughts
With that said, I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season—whether you are a believer or not.
I hope you find something to be grateful for. And if you celebrate Christmas, I hope you’ve been good and that Santa leaves you something special under the tree tonight.
May this season meet you with rest, gratitude, and peace.