I started this post back in July and, somehow, never finished it. Life got busy, or busier, I guess. And before I knew it, here we are on the last day of December 2025.

I began writing about how I’ve always appreciated being born in, and also living, in the U.S. – this country, I think of as my bigger home….and after over five months, I have decided to keep every word:

I have always been grateful to live in the United States. I was never fond of studying history in school as my memory for testing of dates and events was pretty sketchy. But I love reading and found the unraveling of life events of the past rather interesting. I was also blessed with grandparents and parents who appreciated the country they lived in, respected the American and State flags, and understood that not everyone had to agree about politics to get along with each other. I remember being in grade school and standing for the Pledge of Allegiance with my hand over my heart as was every other student in class. My country. It felt good to be proud of a country that allowed for freedom of speech, career-choice (although I wouldn’t understand about that for years to come), and the privilege to play outdoors to my heart’s content.

Since July, I have made several trips to the Rio Grande Valley to visit my family and another one to attend the funeral of my best friend’s mom who was, at times, like a second mom to me. I moved into my new home office/craft space. We celebrated my birthday in Rockport, our first two-day trip since hubs retired four years ago. It was fun and I could have stayed another day. But I did get to enjoy a drive down main street, soaking up all the shops lighted for Christmas in the District on Main Street scheduled for the next day. And I was happy to reunite with my younger brother right before Christmas. My heart runneth over.

It’s these and more that me so grateful for so much in life. Of course, there’s my husband who does so much around here while I’m at work, writing, and getting healthy. There’s my son and his family, who I miss dearly but remain strong that they are happy and where they need to be right now. And there’s my extended family and friends who fill my life with love and joy as time allows me and them. These are the things that matter. Family. Friends. Love. And that feeling of home where one feels safe, happy, content, and whole.

As we wrap up 2025 and welcome in 2026, I encourage you to think what home means to you. What will, or can, you do to bring the feeling of home into your life more? Is it replacing outdated furniture like I hope to in 2026? Is it reconnecting with a sibling like I just did this month? Whatever it is, I wish you the right amount of courage to make it happen. Happy New Year.

Love & hugs, Virg