Mid-December
The first week of winter break was dedicated entirely to sleeping, eating, and remembering what relaxation felt like.
"I forgot what it's like to not have homework," I said, sprawled on the couch in pajamas at 2 PM on a Wednesday.
"I forgot what daylight looks like," Kai added from the other end of the couch, equally disheveled.
"You're both dramatic," Maya said, returning from her last day of school before winter break. "I had finals too and I'm fine."
"You're twelve. You're indestructible."
"Fair point." She grabbed the remote. "Movie marathon?"
"Best idea all week."
We spent three days doing absolutely nothing productive. Watched entire TV series. Ordered too much takeout. Slept until noon. It was glorious.
But on Saturday, Aunt Maria called with an announcement.
"Family Christmas party next weekend.
Everyone's coming. No excuses."
"Tía, we were just there for Thanksgiving"
"That was Thanksgiving. This is Christmas. Different holiday. Be there."
