Wow, can you believe another year has flown by already? As we get ready to welcome 2025, I can’t help but reflect back on all the ups and downs, twists and turns that 2024 brought. It was quite a wild ride, that’s for sure! 

I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling equal parts excited and nervous to see what the new year has in store. On one hand, I’m hopeful that 2025 will bring more stability, less chaos, and maybe even a little bit of that “return to normal” we’ve all been craving. But on the other hand, who knows what curveballs the universe might have waiting for us! With the way the past few years have gone, I’ve learned to expect the unexpected.

But you know what they say – expect the best, prepare for the worst, and capitalize on whatever comes your way, right? That’s my plan, at least. I’m going to do my best to stay positive, keep an open mind, and just roll with the punches as they come. After all, what’s the alternative? Spending my days worrying and stressing? No thank you!

Instead, I’m choosing to focus on all the things I’m grateful for as we head into the new year. Like the fact that my family and friends have all stayed healthy and safe (knock on wood!). Or that my job, while certainly not perfect, has provided me with a steady paycheck and the ability to take care of myself. And let’s not forget about the simple pleasures in life – good books to read, delicious meals to enjoy, and quality time spent with the people I love.

Speaking of the people I love, I have to give a special shout-out to my amazing friends. You all know who you are, and I don’t know what I’d do without you. Whether it’s having a much-needed girls’ night, venting about work frustrations, or just laughing until our stomachs hurt, you guys always know how to lift my spirits when I’m feeling down. Thank you for being my constant cheerleaders and for keeping me sane through all the madness. I love you all dearly.

And of course, I have to give a big ol’ holiday hug to my family. My parents, my siblings, my nieces and nephews – you all bring so much joy and laughter into my life. Even when we’re driving each other crazy (which, let’s be real, happens more often than we’d like to admit), I know that I can always count on you to have my back. You’re my rock, my support system, my everything. I’m so grateful to have you in my corner.

Now, I know the holidays can be a tough time for a lot of people. Maybe you’re missing loved ones who are no longer with us. Or maybe you’re struggling with your mental health and the constant hustle and bustle just feels overwhelming. If that’s the case, please know that you’re not alone. Reach out to your support system, whether that’s friends, family, or a mental health professional. And remember to be gentle with yourself – the holidays are supposed to be a time of joy, but it’s okay if you’re not feeling it 100% of the time.

For those of you who are feeling the holiday spirit in full force, I salute you! Keep spreading that cheer and positivity. The world needs more of it. Bake some extra cookies, send more Christmas cards, volunteer in your community – whatever brings you joy, do it! And don’t forget to take time for yourself, too. Self-care is so important, especially during the busy holiday season.

Well, I think that’s enough rambling from me for now. I could honestly go on and on, but I don’t want to monopolize your time (although let’s be real, you’re probably procrastinating on something important anyway, aren’t you?). 

Before I go, I just want to say one more time: Merry Christmas and happy, happy new year! Here’s to 2025 being our best year yet. Bring it on, baby!

Lots of love,

Tina