As I was stepping out for some work today, I saw a group of people taking down the lights and decorations.
And instantly, I was taken back to two weeks ago—when those lights first went up. That moment felt so joyful. Almost like an aha! — holiday season is here.

Seeing them come down today did the opposite.
My first thought was, oh man… next Monday it’s back to work in full force. Regular schedules. Regular life.

When I later opened the editor to write today’s post, I noticed I was feeling a bit gloomy. Low on energy. And as I tried to figure out why, this just poured out.

It’s strange how something as simple as lights can change your entire mood. Maybe it’s also because the season is changing—it’s less chilly now. I like the kind of cold where you need a light jacket. Not extreme cold. Just… cozy cold.

Everything about the last two weeks felt peaceful. Unhurried. Easy.
Just good.

I think I’m going to remember the 2025 holidays as a good one.

It was wholesome in its own way—lots of time outdoors, balanced with being at home. And honestly, just a break from Teams was such a relief.

Makes me feel like holidays should come every quarter.