The Heart of the Holidays: Family, Love, and a Year to Remember

As I sit down to write this, I can’t help but feel like I should be napping instead. When I look back at this year, I honestly wonder when I’ve slept at all. It’s been a whirlwind—one of those magical, exhausting, exhilarating years where you realize just how much life can hold when you pour your heart into something you love.

This year, I turned a wild idea into something meaningful with my Oliver the Owl children’s book series. What started as a creative poem has grown into so much more. From meeting incredible families to charity events and sharing my parents’ legacy with the world, it’s been a dream I didn’t know I had. Recently, I even took the leap and opened an Etsy shop filled with foodie-inspired merch (because, apparently, I can’t resist adding more to my plate—literally and figuratively).

I truly believe this is just the beginning. But looking back, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude. Your support, encouragement, and love have been the wind beneath my little owl’s wings.

That said, you may have noticed things have been quieter on the Oliver the Owl front lately. I want to share why...

My book, Oliver the Owl: A Sweet Season, was inspired by my mom and her incredible love for Christmas. She didn’t just celebrate Christmas; she lived it—365 days a year. From baking treats that turned our kitchen into a Hallmark movie set to decorating Christmas trees that stayed up all year in every room (yes, every room), she made the season magical in ways I’ll never forget. Those traditions were carried on and are now woven into the memories of my own children, too.

This year, our family is facing a different kind of season. In October, my mom was diagnosed with late-stage cancer. She’s a warrior—this is her fourth battle—but this time, the journey will be different. So, my priorities have shifted. Right now, it’s all about creating special, meaningful moments together. Every day is a chapter in this new story, and while the pages are bittersweet, they’re filled with love, laughter, and so much gratitude.

This Christmas, my focus is on making it one of the most sentimental and memorable for her. She’s strong and still the fighter we know and love. And even though the days feel heavy, they’re also filled with the kind of light that only family can bring.

I want to thank you for your patience and understanding as I’ve stepped back from promotions and storytelling over the past few months. Your support has meant everything to me this year, especially now, when family bonding is the most important ingredient in my life.

As we head into the holidays, I hope you’ll hug your loved ones a little tighter, bake those cookies, and celebrate the traditions that make your heart smile. Thank you for being part of this journey with me—it’s been a gift beyond words.

Here’s to a Christmas filled with meaning, memories, and love for us all.

With gratitude and holiday cheer,