I am going to be completely transparent, 2025 has been an incredibly challenging year for me personally. I began the year with severe stomach issues that carried on through into mid 2025. On Mother’s Day, after the third ER visit, I decided to make a change. I made a very concerted effort to improve my eating habits. It has not been easy, but has brought relief, keeping me out of the ER. I did have a flare-up a few months ago. That happened because I thought I was better and ate what I shouldn’t have…But I am better, much better.

The year also started with the ravaging fires in the cities of Alta Dena and Pacific Palisades. It ravaged entire communities and literally changed the landscape. It affected thousands of jobs in the entertainment industry and left many unemployed for months, including our household!

The first six months of 2025 were rough! Things seem challenging, and a lot of our “desired, scheduled plans” were canceled. Travel, vacations, etc., all canceled.

Yet, in the midst of it all, we did not lose our peace, joy, and hope. As the months moved along, I realized my first novel’s completion was approaching quickly. I use a hybrid publishing house, that means I pay for all of the “publishing”. I hire the publishing house, and they do what I need. Our resources were tight. It seemed ambitious. But I literally received a confirmation. It said, “I am pleased with what you have completed” (more on that later).

I knew it was going to be okay.

The months to follow would bring unexpected news. The news would give our family another season of pause. It seemed like the light was dimming before us yet again and we are still walking in some unknowns. I am incredibly grateful for the unity of my little family of four. Like someone said, your circle is whole. I am also grateful for the friends who are my chosen family. They continue to stand alongside me and cheer me on like an Olympic runner!

2025 has been a year that has stretched my faith. It has caused me to walk confidently among the unknown. Yet, I have confidence solely because my faith rises up in ways that confirm what I know. I know who goes before, who walks beside me, and who walks behind. There is no greater comfort than knowing that God’s plans are greater than anything we can will for.

That belief is how I am stepping into 2026.

I can’t wait to learn what God protected me from when things seemed challenging in ways that were disappointing.

I walk into 2026 thankful for every lesson I learned in 2025.

Nothing is for naught…if you pay close attention, there is a lesson in all of it.

May you all walk into 2026 with a thankful heart!

2026 – The Year to Be Thankful!