It’s been a few weeks since my last post, but I promise I’ve been productive! Here’s the rundown:
Worked on 2025 work plans.
Attended a gala.
Oversaw more home renovations.
Wrote the synopsis for my next book.
Went to a writing critique group for the first time in years.
Made Thanksgiving dinner.
Saw Wicked.
Let’s dive into each.
2025 Planning: "Less Is More"
Year-end at work is my favorite. The pace isn’t slower, but there’s something satisfying about pushing certain tasks into “January’s problem” territory while crafting strategies for the new year. My slogan for 2025? Less is More. In 2024, I packed the calendar with employee initiatives, maybe too many. Next year, I’m focusing on streamlining—prioritizing the programs that resonate most. My goal is to create a workplace experience where all 750 of us, regardless of in-office, hybrid, or remote setups, feel like we’re working side by side.
Speaking of great workplaces, we won several awards this year, including the Chicago Tribune’s Top Workplaces award, where we ranked #18! The gala was a blast—fancy cars, neon signs, and John Williams from WGN as the emcee. These awards are based on employee feedback, giving us a clear roadmap for future improvements.
Home Renovations: Goodbye 90s Jacuzzi Tub
Thanksgiving week was “work from home” central as we had new furnaces and AC units installed. After 24 years, our old system was ready to retire. Up next: tackling our master bathroom and bedroom. The roof replacement last month revealed that our bedroom walls were practically melting, and I’ve wanted to redo the bathroom ever since my 2022 knee replacement recovery turned into an HGTV binge. Those “We should replace this tub” moments snowballed into full-on plans.
Book Progress: A Hallmark Christmas Dream
My next book idea has been brewing—a Hallmark-esque Christmas romance I hope to release next October. I wrote the synopsis and, craving feedback, joined a writers’ critique group. The feedback was fantastic, and I’m excited to spend the winter polishing it.
Thanksgiving Traditions: Stuffing Perfection
Thanksgiving dinner? Nailed it. My system is down to a science, and every year, I perfect it a little more. This year, I made the full feast and shared it with my sister, whose family was battling the stomach flu. Stuffing always takes the crown as my favorite part.
Wicked: A Perfectly Wonderful Experience
Finally, I saw Wicked, and it was everything I dreamed of. I’ve seen the stage production three times in the last decade, but seeing it on the big screen? Incredible. I ugly-cried through multiple scenes, and by the end of Defying Gravity, I was a sobbing mess. It was perfect.
And that’s a wrap on the past few weeks. The days are flying by, and I can’t wait to do a full year-end recap on December 31st!
In the meantime, just remember:
