A dizzying whirlwind of laughter, tears, and craziness… that’s how I would describe November.

In October, I released a short story on Amazon, submitted the first few pages of book one to a contest, and blissfully anticipated a quiet November, where most of my time would be dedicated to suctioning out the first draft of book two. But my plans were not God’s plans.

November became a month for life-altering changes: deaths, a birth, a new job, and planning a move back to my home state.  Beautiful and haunting moments filled with intermittent flashes of grief, joy, and a deeper appreciation for family and the people with which we choose to spend our limited time on Earth.

My heart aches for all those facing empty chairs and empty beds this Christmas.

Celebrate every tiny measure of joy with those you hold dear and when the rain comes, splash in the puddles, throw your head back and twirl in the downpour. God’s got you.