Holiday Hearts, Snowy Walks & One Very Opinionated Papillon

Every year, like clockwork, people ask me, “So Sabine… how was your Christmas?” And every year I think, Well, how honest do you want me to be? Do you want the Instagram-ready version… or the real one where my Papillon, Blueberry, stole a shortbread cookie straight off the cooling rack?
Now, let me get this out right away before anyone gasps into their peppermint cocoa—I know not everyone celebrates Christmas. Truly. I respect that. I cherish it. I even wholeheartedly agree that the world could probably use fewer rules about when and how we’re “supposed” to feel festive. But I can’t help it: this season is one of my favourites. It’s cozy, it’s sparkly, and it gives me an excuse to wear ridiculous socks with dancing reindeer on them.
Still, holidays aren’t simple.

They’re beautiful and messy and sometimes heartbreakingly quiet. I remember the Christmas right after my mom passed. Nothing felt quite right. I wasn’t ready to be joyful, or festive, or even upright before noon. I drifted through that season like a snowflake caught in an unexpected gust—slow, confused, and hoping someone would stick out a mitten and catch me.
So if this year has been hard for you… if you’re missing someone… if the lights feel too bright or the music too cheerful… please accept this enormous virtual hug from me. Blueberry insists on adding her own Papillon-approved snuggle, which includes a tiny paw on your arm and that earnest stare she gives right before demanding a treat.
And if this year has been joyful for you—if you’ve been wrapped in warmth, surrounded by the people you love, enjoying cozy fires and sparkling drinks—then I’m sending another hug your way too. A celebratory one. Blueberry says this hug should be paired with a “paws up,” which is her version of a toast.
The truth is, we forget sometimes—between the lights, the presents, the cookies Blueberry absolutely did not steal (she says this with shocking conviction)—that the holiday season is different for everyone. Happiness and heartache often share the same room this time of year. One doesn’t erase the other. And both deserve space.

If you’re able, maybe step outside today. If there’s snow where you live, crunch through it. Listen to the hush of winter around you. Look up at the sky. Let yourself believe that magic is still out there—because it is. I mean, Blueberry (also known as Pixie the Magical Papillon in my books) believes in magic so fiercely that I’m convinced she could summon it single-pawedly if the situation required.

So whether you’re celebrating or just gently surviving the last few days, know this: you’re doing the best you can from where you are. And that’s perfect. Absolutely, wonderfully perfect.
From me and Blueberry—big hugs, warm wishes, and a sprinkle of Papillon stardust on your holiday season.

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