The holiday season did not go according to plan. In part because I did not expect half of my family to be sick at various intervals from Christmas Day to New Year’s Eve. (I’m hopeful that we are on the other side of it now, and am finally feeling a sense of excitement for the new year.)

We’ve gone through some big changes in the last couple months. We moved to a neighboring town, closer to work and school. One of our kids is narrowing down colleges as she is graduating from high school in May. And we recently adopted our first official pet (that’s not a fish) – Princess Buttercup.

Traditions have once again helped to keep us grounded as we’ve moved through the past few weeks. From Advent to our 12 Days of Christmas Movies, we have savored the season together and attempted to be present.

I was a little apprehensive of this new year; there are so many things I didn’t accomplish in 2024, and it felt like I was dragging my feet as time ran out.

As it turns out, I love a fresh start. A new day, a new month, a new year, a new beginning. It’s often the reset that I need to start again.

I plan to prioritize reading, writing, and studying again this year. These passions and disciplines of mine often get lost amongst my other priorities. I’m hoping to be more intentional this year (and welcome accountability from any readers who want to help remind me to run the race that God has marked out for me).

Another way I’d love to connect is to know your #oneword for 2025! Comment below if you’ve already chosen one. I know I blog about this every year, but it’s one of my favorite things. Here are my previous words:

• Freedom
• Anchor
• Worthy
• Trust
• Savor
• Bloom
• Held
• Breathe

My word for this year is alabaster. I’m not entirely sure about it, as it’s different than any word I’ve had before. But I have to say; I’m looking forward to my journey with it. “Alabaster Heart” has always been one of my favorite worship songs (and Alabaster is the best coffee shop in Pennsylvania).

I hope your New Year is off to a great start. (And if it isn’t, tomorrow is a new day.)

Until next week…