25 Lessons, Favorite Things & Life-Giving Reads from 2025

Life continues to move forward, inviting us into new seasons whether we feel fully prepared or not. With each passing year comes growth, perspective, and the opportunity to reflect on where we’ve been — and to look ahead with hope for what’s still to come.

As 2025 draws to a close, I’m choosing to pause with gratitude. To reflect on the lessons that shaped this year, the simple comforts that supported everyday life, the books that inspired me, and the experiences that reminded me how rich and meaningful life can be. Even in moments of uncertainty, I’m stepping forward with confidence that a bright future lies ahead — one filled with possibility, adventure, and purpose.

25 Lessons from 2025

Life moves forward with intention, inviting us to grow along the way.
Every season offers something valuable if we’re willing to notice it.
Progress doesn’t have to be rushed to be meaningful.
We don’t need to have everything figured out to move forward.
A hopeful outlook shapes the way we experience life.
Gratitude has the power to shift perspective.
Small daily rhythms create lasting change.
Five quiet minutes a day can reset the heart and mind.
Prayer keeps us grounded and focused.
Journaling brings clarity and intention.
Reflection helps us recognize how far we’ve come.
Time spent in nature refreshes, resets, and restores.
The woods, mountains, and sea soothe the soul and calm the mind.
Nature invites us to slow down and breathe deeply.
Stillness creates space for creativity and clarity.
Setting attainable goals keeps us moving forward with purpose.
Time is a gift — one worth investing thoughtfully.
Trying something new often leads to unexpected joy.
Growth happens when we step outside our comfort zone.
Faith strengthens courage for what lies ahead.
Encouragement multiplies when shared.
Community enriches every season.
Kindness always leaves a lasting imprint.
Life is filled with more possibilities than we often realize.
The future holds beauty, adventure, and promise.

A few of my “Favorite Things” of 2025

(All linked in my Amazon storefront https://amzn.to/4jnW5KK)

1. Planner/Calendar

Perfect for keeping schedules organized, planning and prepping for future events and carving down time/time for quiet moments to decompress.

2. iPad

A complete game-changer for long travel days, reading, journaling, content creation, and staying connected to work while away from home. I waited far too long to get one — now I can’t imagine traveling without it.

3. iPad Sleeve / Protective Case

Practical and stylish, perfect for tossing into a carry-on or tote without worrying about damage.

4. Travel Tripod Stand with Bluetooth Remote for Photos

Essential for filming reels, capturing photos, family memories, and content while traveling solo or with loved ones. Compact, lightweight, and incredibly useful. One of those items that makes a huge difference — especially for travel photos, self-timer shots, and content creation on the go.

5. Noise-Canceling Headphones

For flights, editing, reading, or simply finding quiet in a noisy world.

6. Travel Tote / Personal Item Bag

Roomy enough for essentials, organized enough to keep travel stress at bay.

7. Portable Charger / Power Bank

Peace of mind while traveling — especially on long days exploring new places.

8. Favorite Journals & Pens

For prayer, gratitude, reflection, and processing life as it unfolds.

9. Books That Shaped My Year

All of my favorite reads from 2025 are also linked in my Amazon storefront for easy browsing.

Favorite Reads of 2025

Pride & Prejudice – Jane Austen

A timeless classic filled with wit, romance, misunderstandings, humility, and love. A reminder that growth often comes through reflection and grace.

Rules of Civility – Amor Towles

Absolutely superb writing. Towles pulls you into the lives of richly layered characters and gives you a fly-on-the-wall glimpse into another era.

The Secret Book Society – Madeline Martin

A powerful reminder of the importance of community, loyalty, and believing in one another — especially in unsafe or unhealthy situations. I found pieces of myself in each woman.

The Story of Helen Keller

A moving testament to resilience, grit, and determination. A reminder that limitations do not define what is possible.

The Jane Austen Society – Natalie Jenner

A beautiful tribute to literature, healing, and the quiet ways books bring people together after loss.

Favorite Experiences of 2025

My daughter’s wedding — a beautiful, joy-filled day celebrating love and new beginnings
My son’s graduation & adoption (after over a decade of a lengthy legal battle, heartache, and millions of prayers…. my hubby was FINALLY able to adopt my son and make him officially his son!) — the overwhelming joy we all felt that the adoption was finalized and all the hope and promise ahead of him
An epic 45th birthday cruise with girlfriends — laughter, freedom, and unforgettable memories
Unhurried time with loved ones — the moments that matter most
Time spent in nature — the woods, the sea, quiet walks, and moments that restored my soul