Yes, it’s technically the day after Christmas. In my head, Christmas lasts at least another week…sooooo yeah. Merry Christmas!!
This month has been FILLED with what could easily be mistaken for chaos. Deadlines piled up, classes wrapped, work was crazy, and right in the middle of it all - Christmas shopping. Every year I tell myself I’ll start a couple months early. After all, Christmas conveniently lands on the same day every single year. It shouldn’t be a surprise. And yet, here I am, praying packages arrive on time or bracing myself for the madness of Crabtree Valley Mall.
I take a lot of pride in my gift-giving abilities. I love being intentional and choosing gifts that feel meaningful to the person receiving them. And this year? I think I nailed my favorite one.
A few weeks ago, I was visiting my family in Goldsboro when I overheard Mima complaining about having to throw away her pizza pan - it had warped over time and she was not happy about it. Immediately, I knew this was my moment. I went straight to Belk to buy a brand-new pan, then hopped on Etsy and designed a custom pizza board with Mima and Pops’ names and their wedding date on it. They’ve always loved making pizza together, so it felt like the perfect fit.
I’m rambling at this point, but long story short - it was a really good gift, and it made them really happy.
Spending time away from Raleigh has truly been a gift from the Lord - something I really needed. That said, I do miss the Fellows. Leading up to this extended break, we had such a fun December together. My personal favorite was our final roundtable of the semester. Roundtable is already one of my favorite parts of Fellows, but this one was extra special because we all wore Christmas pajamas.
Ashley’s house was so cozy, and I felt incredibly loved, surrounded by a community that has become such a huge part of my life. “Elfing” Carsyn was also an absolute highlight.
Some other moments from this month:
Cam graduating from Wake Tech and preparing for NC State (Go Pack 🐺)
It snowing in Raleigh
Lots of hockey
A coffee (date…?)
Cocktail Party
Watching Pastor Nick throw arguably the best house party I’ve ever been to
Touring the Angus Barn (10/10 recommend)
Sitting on my back porch while Mima walked out with a cup of coffee she made for me during my quiet time
Dressing up as Santa Claus on Christmas Day
Watching Jared Goff give a despicable performance on Christmas Day - which was especially devastating considering he’s my fantasy football quarterback. Two points. TWO. In the championship game. Thanks, Jared.
Posting a recap on Instagram with no real intention - only to realize how overwhelmingly blessed I am and how deeply this year has changed my life
If you made it this far, thank you. And if you didn’t - I totally understand, no hard feelings. But as usual, I’ll leave you on the edge of your seat…
Because in about seven days, ya boy is catching his first-ever flight to… ✈️
If I survive, well…I’ll see you all in 2026!
