Life Lately: A Little November to New Year Catch-Up
The last few months have been a beautiful whirlwind of family, celebration, and those full-circle moments that make you stop and just breathe it all in.
We kicked off November with a wedding that warmed my heart so much. My sweet cousin Marky married one of my childhood friends, Ruby, something my younger self would've never imagined.....but somehow it felt perfectly meant to be. What made it even more special? Watching my husband officiate their ceremony. There's something sacred about seeing him step into that role, and this time it hit even deeper. It was one of those rare moments where everything feels aligned. Welcome to the family, Ruby!
And then—because life doesn't slow down during the holidays—we rolled straight into Thanksgiving and Christmas mode. If you know me, you know I'm completely obsessed with this time of year. Give me twinkle lights, cozy nights, and all the festive chaos, and I'm in heaven.
One of my favorite traditions is girls' craft night with my Aunt Kenna and our friends. Our last one of the year did not disappoint. We painted Santas, talked a mile a minute, and laughed until our cheeks hurt. Those nights fill my cup in the sweetest way.
Another highlight was attending the annual Harvest Gala and getting to see my Great Aunt Sr. Celine and the St. Francis sisters. We adore those ladies, and being able to make it this year meant so much to us. Their joy is contagious.
Thanksgiving was extra special because it was our first big holiday in our new home. Family flowed in and out all day, filling every room with warmth, conversation, and the kind of love that makes a house feel lived in. It was everything I hoped for and more for our first holiday HOME.
Then came Christmas, my favorite season of all. Parties, gatherings, family time, and so many little moments that stitched together into something magical. But Christmas Eve… that was the moment that will stay with me forever. My husband comes from a big family, and for the first time in our ten years of marriage, I saw him with all of his siblings in one place. It felt radiant, rare, and holy in its own way. A true Christmas miracle.
New Year's almost threw us a curveball. Darin was working out of town, and we thought we might spend our first holiday apart. But in perfect movie-style timing, he made it home just in time for a midnight kiss. New Year's Day was slow and sweet....Texas Tech football with my aunts, uncles, and cousins, followed by a date night in Lubbock with the hubby. We even decided to switch up our long-standing Cracker Barrel dinner tradition and turned it into a "wherever our hearts desire" dinner date from now on. A small shift, but a fun one.
And as if the season wasn't full enough, we've already started a new monthly tradition with my siblings-in-law: poker night! I'm so excited knowing we'll be seeing them at least once a month. I love them dearly, and any time with them, and my niece and nephews, is a gift. Being an auntie is one of my most sacred roles, and I hope to grow even more into that calling this year.
As I look back on these past months, my heart is full. Family, traditions, celebrations, and the simple beauty of being together.....these are the things that make life rich.
And stepping into a new year with gratitude already overflowing? That feels like the sweetest blessing.
What made your holiday season special this year? I'd love to hear about your favorite moments!
