In a year like this, where most of us have felt stressed and downright upset about what’s going on in the United States and even the world, it’s more important than ever to lean into what’s going right in our lives. Now, I know some who would vehemently disagree and think everything is going well. And that’s only because of who’s leading our country and how they believe he’s doing an excellent job because of the selective media they listen to.

Since the leader of country thrives on attention, I don’t want to indulge him here and mention his name. Like Voldemort, I would rather say it’s He Who Shall Not Be Named. Every day, I hope for something to turn around and for people to turn against him and his administration, and I do see signs of hope. But change is excruciatingly slow, and something significant probably won’t happen until next year’s November midterm elections. Until then, it’s been generally difficult to feel optimistic and think we could lose our democracy and standing in the world.

Because I feel so strongly about this, I won’t apologize for being overtly political here. But what I will do is focus on what I am grateful for during this trying year and the things that make my life worthwhile. Here’s hoping there’s more of it in 2026.

I won't get in trouble by showing the head of our household, Genji

My family (plus Genji)

This not only includes my immediate family of hubby and two daughters - it’s also our cat Genji who helps us with life stresses and down days. I would also include my in-law family and my own sisters’ families in California. My circle might be small but it’s important.

We were lucky to visit Japan this March during cherry blossom time

Travel

I am so glad that I can make my passion my work, with both the Cruise Planners travel advising and my writing, blogging and content creation. For the next year, I’m focusing more on the latter, and I’m looking forward to the change.

We got to see the Giants at Oracle Park this past July

Sports

One of the things that keep me sane (as well as working out, which I’ll mention later) is following my favorite Bay Area teams in baseball (Giants) and football (Niners), and to a lesser extent, basketball (Warriors). Let’s see how they all do in the coming year.

The Live Chaat appetizer from Pippal, Dublin, California

Great food

More than any other year, I’ve had the opportunity to enjoy incredible cuisine from many different places, from Tuscany to Japan and everywhere in between. My hope is that I will get to taste more dishes that tell a story about the places I visit.

Wine lovers flocked to the Willamette Valley in Oregon and taste excellent wines like Potter's Vineyard

Wine, spirits and beer

Of course, something that goes with fine food – or just on its own – are drinks.  I’ve become more appreciative of cocktails, not straight liquors. But I’ve really become more astute when it comes to wine and food pairings, less so with beers (but I still like them)

Abundance

This can be a sticky, woo-woo subject with some. But this isn’t just about wealth or material riches. It’s also how I feel my family’s and my life are good, and I try to practice gratitude every day for that, especially now.

I've take plenty of Peloton workouts, especially with instructor Emma Lovewell

My health (especially Peloton workouts)

While I’ve struggled with leg aches and pains this year – so much that I have a noticeable limp – and gone through one of two hip replacements, I still have good health. Part of that is doing difficult Peloton workouts which get me fitter and stronger.

Business connections

Despite my changing the travel agency business, I’m happy that I was able to do well with networking. Having the chamber connections helped the most, especially with the trip to Tuscany this past spring.

New opportunities

The thing I’m most grateful for is what is coming for the new year. I will see in 2026!