The party that is this illness continues to rage so hard that I can’t leave my apartment else I’d miss all of the fun. Still, even if the party is a feverish one, I can manage a few words about this day.

How glad I am for so many things. I like to think of it as a Reasons To Celebrate List. To me, they shine like candles in what has been a tough week on the health front. I hope they bring some light to yours.

1. One of my best friends was born on New Year’s Eve, and it always feels like a worldwide party for one of the best people. Happy Birthday, Julie. 🙂
2. I changed jobs twice this year, both times because I wanted to and put in the work to find a new job. I am so thankful for God’s voice and provision.
3. I sang with two choirs which was so sweet and good. I also gained a lot more confidence in my ability to harmonize off the cuff.
4. My novel has an end in sight. I have never had so much clarity about a creative project before and I am looking forward to sharing chapters with Substack in 2025.
5. I accompanied and performed more in 2024 than I did in the two years previous. It is so good to use music to help others and bring beauty to life.
6. There is a renewed sense of hope and momentum in my life, a huge relief after a long season of burnout. I am so thankful.
7. I made new friends and deepened old friendships this year. People make a place, and I am so glad to have some truly extraordinary ones in mine.

Let me know if you make your own list to celebrate this year. And here is a beautiful bit of creativity and love that I enjoy coming back to regularly. A bright light, indeed.

Merry Christmas! Happy New Year!