It's The End of the Year as We Know It

We're already wrapping up another year?! How is that even possible? It feels like just five minutes ago I was dealing with the aftermath of a fire, and now here we are 14 months later. WHAT?! Although I have plenty of thoughts on 2024, I can confidently say that December has been my absolute favorite this year and will continue to be! Keep reading to discover why.

First, let's discuss the major lesson I learned this year—PEACE. Throughout the year, I've focused on understanding what brings me peace and how to maintain it, along with preserving my sanity. I've also contemplated why some people feel compelled to disrupt others' peace. Truly happy individuals don't make others unhappy. They don't criticize, instigate conflicts, or create unnecessary drama. They don't wish bad on people or belittle others. Sad people do sad things. End of story.

I used to believe it was my responsibility to try to "win" with these individuals, but recently I realized that this isn't something you can "win" at. These people aim to draw you into their game—making everyone as miserable as they are. Learn to break the cycle. Life is far too short to engage in that game. You have your own life to live and can't afford to be distracted by all that. Similarly, this year I discovered that some people will leave your life without any reason or explanation, and that's okay too. They were only meant to be in your life temporarily.

December 3, 2024, forever changed my life. The saying holds true - "the best things in life are worth waiting for." I'd even suggest adding, "worth waiting and going through hell for," but I'm unsure if that's possible. Does anyone know who I could consult about that? Anyway, my point is, if you've been following my journey, you're aware it hasn't been a fairytale, and you know I almost gave up on finding someone to spend the rest of my forever with, especially meeting someone naturally. But, you all know God has His plans and His timing. For the sake of rambling on, I'll just say, I'm over the moon with His plan and I'm still getting used to having such a gentleman around. (Come back later for the full story!)

This December brought another significant change to my life. It taught me to slow down and appreciate things more. To cherish the people I'm with while they're here. To savor the moments we share and the memories we're creating. As we age, eventually, memories will be all that we have (what a Suzie sourpuss!). But truly, capture the photos, express your thoughts, laugh, dance, and be weird!

I know I talk a lot about friendship and family, but it's one of the most important things to me. I most definitely would not be where I am today without those two things, so of course every year should end with a note about family and friendship from the year.

I initially planned to discuss family and friendship separately, but this year, that doesn't make much sense to me. Those I regard as friends are also close enough to be considered family. Interestingly, some are actually becoming real family! There are certain people you just know you want to be around all the time because seeing them instantly makes your heart happy. You know the ones. They greet you with a tight hug for both hello and goodbye, and they can read your expressions like a book. If someone makes you sad, they don't ask questions; they simply ask how they can help or who they need to confront. They're the ones who text just to check in or remind you that you're amazing, in case you forgot today. These are the friends and family I'm incredibly proud to have this year. I've gained quite a few of them in this category this year, and I couldn't be happier! Cheers to Framily!!

To sum up, 2024 has generally been positive. There were moments of sadness, challenges, joy, and excellence, but I'm pleased to report that we navigated another year without too much harm. I'm eagerly anticipating what 2025 has in store; it's going to be amazing!!