Love, Growth and Looking Ahead
Hey Friend,
As the holidays fill the air with warmth and the year comes to a close, I’ve been reflecting on just how transformative 2024 has been. This year, I’ve experienced moments of challenge and clarity, but most importantly, I’ve learned so much about myself.
One of my biggest wins this year has been saving more money. It hasn’t been easy as a habitual spender, but it’s been so rewarding watching my money grow in my high yield savings account. It’s actually making me kind of cheap like my dad lol! Reaping the benefits of prioritizing my financial goals and securing my future while still enjoying my little joys has been a lesson in balance and discipline. It’s also taught me something deeper about myself: when it’s time to lock in on my goals, I tend to pull away emotionally.
As the oldest child and teen mom, I’ve always carried a sense of responsibility and maturity, but that has often meant relying on distance in times of uncertainty. It’s my way of staying focused, of protecting my aspirations—but it’s also something I’m learning to balance. I’m hopeful that in the year ahead, I can continue to stay open, to let people in even while I’m working toward my dreams.
This year has reminded me of the power of reflection, discipline, and the love that surrounds me—whether it’s my son, my family, or the friends who feel just like family. It’s this village of support that has carried me through and reminded me that I don’t have to do it all alone.
Reflections as a Single Parent
As a single parent, the holidays are always a time of mixed emotions. There’s the joy of creating special memories for my son, but also the weight of making sure I balance it all. This season, I’m leaning into gratitude—grateful for the love in our village and the lessons I’ve learned about myself.
Practical Tips for Embracing Love and Reflection This Holiday Season
Here are five ways to focus on growth, gratitude, and connection during this special time of year:
1. Celebrate Your Wins
Take a moment to reflect on what you’ve accomplished this year. Whether it’s financial goals, personal growth, or small milestones, celebrate them. They’re part of your story and your strength.
2. Lean Into Your Village
Surround yourself with people who make you feel loved and supported. Whether it’s family, chosen family, or close friends, let their love remind you that you don’t have to navigate this season alone.
3. Give Back with Intention
This year, my son and I donated monetary resources to feed displaced families for Thanksgiving, and we plan to donate to toy drives for Christmas. Acts of service remind me of what the season is truly about—spreading love and joy.
4. Allow Yourself to Rest
It’s okay to slow down. Rest is productive, too. Give yourself permission to take breaks, reflect, and recharge during this busy time.
5. Set Intentions for the New Year
Think about how you want to feel in 2025. What habits, goals, or relationships do you want to nurture? Writing them down can help you start the year with clarity and purpose.
Coming Home to Yourself
This year has been about coming home to myself—understanding my patterns, embracing my strengths, and leaning into love and gratitude. Coming home to yourself is about more than reflection; it’s about creating a space where you feel grounded, loved, and whole.
For me, this means finding contentment in God’s blessings, trusting His plan, and staying hopeful about the future. It means showing up for myself and my son in ways that feel authentic and aligned with who I am now.
As I prepare to release my ebook, Reflect, Release, Renew: A Year-End Guide to Embracing Change and New Beginnings, I hope it will be a resource to help you reflect on your year and step boldly into 2025 with intention and purpose. Make sure to subscribe to the newsletter so you don’t miss the launch!
Your Journey Awaits
Thank you for being here with me. Your support and connection inspire me to keep growing, sharing, and holding space for this beautiful community. As we wrap up this year, I hope you’ll take a moment to reflect on your own journey.
Life doesn’t always look the way we imagined, but it’s filled with opportunities for love, growth, and grace. Let’s celebrate where we are, honor where we’ve been, and move forward with hope.
With so much love,
T 🌹