2025 was the Year of the Snake. In Chinese astrology, the snake represents transformation, wisdom, and the shedding of old skin. Looking back, that symbolism feels almost uncanny. This year tested me in ways I never imagined—through loss, change, and challenges both personal and professional. Yet, like the snake, I found myself shedding what no longer served me, learning to set boundaries, and discovering strength in unexpected places.
January–March: Shedding and Survival
The year began with pain—literally—with a root canal and crown on my front tooth. It felt like a metaphor for the year ahead: uncomfortable, but necessary for healing. January also brought heartbreak with the loss of my dear friend Tracy, someone I had known for over 40 years. From Nashville, it wasn’t simple to get there the way those nearby could, and that distance added to my grief.
February took me to Minnesota and Wisconsin for Tracy’s funeral. I flew into Minneapolis and drove to Marshfield, thanks to TH who stepped in to make sure I could get there. Amid sorrow, there were moments of joy—like reconnecting with friends and classmates, some whom I hadn’t seen in many years. My second trip to Minnesota the end of February was spent surprising my nephew Grayson with Monster Jam in Minneapolis. His excitement over Grave Digger and El Toro Loco reminded me how joy can shine through. My sister and I also escaped to Cancun, soaking in sun and laughter until news of our dad’s emergency surgery pulled us back to reality.
March brought lighter moments—dogsitting Roscoe, who became fast friends with Miss Freckles, and being a seat filler at the Opry 100 taping, surrounded by incredible performances. Family time in Minnesota followed, visiting our dad in recovery in Wausau, WI and stopping by our grandparents’ farm in Chili, WI where they still live in their nineties. We also introduced Grayson to Chatty Belle on our way back to the Twin Cities.
April–June: Planting Roots
Spring was about reclaiming space. I redid my backyard, having cement poured and laying down patio tiles to create a peaceful retreat. I saw The Fixx in concert, rediscovered joy in live music, and marveled at baby robins nesting in my yard. I planted sunflowers—my favorite flower, a symbol of hope and light—and watched them grow as a reminder that beauty can bloom even after hardship.
By June, I was back in Minnesota for a work meeting and coworker’s retirement. My sister and I surprised our dad for Father’s Day with a quick day trip to WI. More rides at the Mall of America with Grayson reminded me that being the “fun aunt” is one of my favorite roles.
July–September: Creativity and Connection
Summer marked the start of my “creative era.” What began as a sunflower-themed jean jacket blossomed into Tears For Fears jackets, tote bags, and sweatshirts. Creativity became my therapy, my outlet, and my joy.
A July concert at the Pinnacle with my neighbor Lindsay added to the fun—seeing Little River Band and Three Dog Night at the new venue was a highlight.
August was especially memorable: turning 55, celebrating with my sister, exploring Dolly’s Wine Bar and new honky tonks in Nashville filled the beginning of August with laughter. We traveled to Chattanooga, explored Ruby Falls and Rock City, and even played extras for a TV series. TH also stepped in to help with home projects during his visit—installing fixtures, moving furniture, and simply showing up when I needed support. We got to see Men at Work, Christopher Cross, and Toto at Ascend Amphitheater. Each performance was fantastic, and concerts remain one of the ways I recharge and connect with joy.
September brought more concerts—Haircut 100 and Howard Jones at the Ryman—and the highlight of meeting Priscilla Block at her record release party. Her authenticity and rising star power reminded me of the importance of chasing dreams.
October–November: Celebration and Reflection
October was filled with milestones: Grayson’s 5th birthday, Dad’s 80th, and reconnecting with lifelong friends. I traveled to Las Vegas for Tears For Fears, reunited with fellow fans, and created Queen of Hearts jackets for Priscilla Block’s Halloween show. Music, creativity, and friendship intertwined in unforgettable ways.
November brought DIY challenges (hello, Nashville-themed wallpaper!) and another Priscilla Block concert in Minneapolis, where my sister and I proudly wore our custom jackets. Family crafts with Grayson capped off my final trip north for the year. I was so fortunate that another work meeting happened at the right time.
December: Closing the Year with Music and Vision
December brought me back to the Ryman to see LeAnn Rimes, a beautiful way to close out a year so full of music and memories. It also sparked my vision for the year ahead. I’ve officially expanded my creative era by purchasing a Cricut, with plans to launch an Etsy shop in 2026. Cards, tote bags, shirts, hats, coasters—the ideas are flowing, and while I still have much to learn, I’m excited to see where this creative journey takes me.
Lessons of the Snake
Through all of this, I learned the importance of boundaries. I cannot control what others think or their behaviors, but I can control how I respond. When someone shows you who they are, believe them. This lesson was painful, it clarified where my energy and love are best invested. At 55, I’ve realized that life is too short for drama or negativity. My focus now is on the people who bring light, support, and joy.
That includes the friends who check in quietly, even when I tend to shut down. We may not talk every day, but a silly meme or reel—sometimes even about farts—reminds me that we’re thinking of each other. Those small gestures have meant more than words this year, and I’m deeply grateful for them.
Galloping Into 2026: The Fire Horse
Now, as 2026 approaches—the Year of the Fire Horse—I feel the shift. The Fire Horse is bold, untamed, and unstoppable. It gallops forward with passion and independence, refusing to be held back. That’s the energy I’m carrying into the new year: fiery creativity, fearless exploration, and the courage to live authentically.
I’m looking forward to more travel, visits from my sister and friends, and new adventures—including seeing Priscilla Block at the Ryman on March 4th with VIP meet and greet. I’m also considering stepping back from social media, especially Facebook, to focus more on real connections and creative pursuits.
2025 taught me to let go. 2026 will be about charging ahead. I’m ready to ride into this next chapter with gratitude for the lessons, excitement for the adventures ahead, and the fire to keep moving forward.
And as we all step into our own next chapters, may we remember that everyone carries something unseen — so let’s lead with kindness, always.
Onwards and Upwards
Tales of TFF, Taylor, Dolly and Happenstance 