The End of the “BER” Era…temporarily

A Reflection of December

As we step into a brand-new year, I’ve been reflecting on December—its small rituals, its surprises, and the little moments that quietly shaped the intentions I’m carrying forward. December always feels like a month of both pause and preparation. This year was no different, though it carried its own warmth and its own lessons.

One of my favorite experiences was surrounding myself by scents that weren’t quite pine but comfortingly close—woodsy, warm, and nostalgic. It reminded me how certain smells can anchor us, offering a sense of belonging even when traditions shift.

I also revisited a few classics: A Christmas Carol (2009), The Grinch (2018), & Rise of The Guardians (2012). No matter how many times I watch them, they move me. There’s something deeply powerful about storytelling that holds up a mirror—inviting us to step outside ourselves, see life from an alternate angle, and then return changed. Not just Scrooge’s transformation but the Grinch and Jack Frost, though dramatic, always nudges me to examine my own path: What am I holding onto that no longer serves me? What shifts would I make if I glimpsed a future built from my current habits? How can we learn to work together despite our differences? What can I do personally to create change and bridge gaps? How can I slow down to truly understand others? I don’t know about you but movies to me mean so much and those with a truly inspiring story, especially holiday ones, really get to me.

December also glowed—literally. So many candles were lit (battery-powered, but still magical!), filling the evenings with soft, steady light. Most of Christmas was spent in pajamas with family, an unhurried togetherness that felt grounding and something I truly enjoyed.

I was able to collect a new holiday ornament as a gift from my spouse, he makes this a yearly tradition of his own and as you have seen or will see many new hot chocolate recipes were tried!

We already have so many traditions that it’s hard to tell which ones will stick, which ones will evolve, and which ones will become cornerstones for future holidays. But that’s part of the beauty of tradition—it grows with us. I know the ones we will not lose which involves family time and Harry Potter inspired activities, but this month brought a different type of togetherness and Faith filled inspirational days and times.

A New Year, New Intentions: Expectations, Changes & Reflections

With that being shared for the BER months, this new year comes with a few updates I’m excited to share. I’ll be refreshing the rhythm of my weekly uploads, especially for Coffee & Story Time. Expect a mix of cozy storytelling, reflective prompts, and more intentional check-ins. The goal is to create content that feels steady and nourishing—for you and for me.

December’s bucket list reminded me how meaningful reflection can be: noticing what felt right, what lit me up, what slowed me down in the best way. So as I shift the structure of my weekly posts, I’m embracing that same approach, choosing with intention, allowing space for creativity, and staying open to new traditions, both big and small.

Here’s to the stories we will share, the moments we’ll create, and the new chapters waiting to unfold.

What are you looking forward to as the new year approaches and what type of reflection have you made as this one ends?