December Reflections
Closing the Year with Gratitude and Hope
As the year comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on how richly full these past months have been. 2025 gifted me the joy of travel. The adventures I shared with family and dear friends, the laughter woven into new places, and the beauty of the relationships, both newly built and cherished throughout years.
Moments that reminded me just how meaningful connection truly is.
One of the most profound experiences was revisiting the place where I was raised from ages three to thirteen. Walking those familiar roads stirred memories both sweet and difficult.
It became an unexpected gift… an opportunity to reconnect with my childhood self, and, more importantly, to release any lingering pain I had quietly carried for years.
There is healing in simply letting go.
Another deeply moving chapter was returning to my former home in Cornwall-on-Hudson. That place marked a true turning point in my life, a season when things began to shift for the better.
While there, I was reminded of the incredible influence of Dr. Richard Smith, who was like a father to me in every way that mattered. His guidance, kindness, and belief in me continue to live on in my heart
Coming back home to Florida also brought reflection. Though both of my parents, the very ones who convinced me to move from New York to Florida, are no longer with us, Florida is still home.
It holds their presence in quiet ways, and it grounds me. I'm deeply grateful for my siblings, extended family and the friends who feel like family.
Thank you, for continuing to show up with love, humor and support. Thank you to all who continue the journey with me.
As I count my blessings, I'm especially mindful that this year has brought great loss and hardship to many. Some are navigating grief, tragedy, or loneliness during a season that can feel especially heavy.
If that's you, please know you’re never alone. You, your life and your story matter.
I end this year with hope — hope rooted in resilience, connection, and the belief that even after loss, joy can and will return.
May 2026 bring healing where it's needed, peace where it's been missing, and new beginnings for us all!
Happy holidays
With infinite love,
Lisa ∞
