Merry Christmas!

I didn’t expect to be so quiet here on the blog lately, but this month has left very little time for anything extra.

This last weekend was our family Christmas with the kids. It was moved up five days early, putting me in a bit of a time crunch. I’ve only had time for audiobook listening while cleaning and wrapping, and zero time for reading and writing reviews.

What I’m learning about this season is that NO ONE is doing it all, some things have to go to save your sanity, and find space for the things that you love. I can’t give up things that bring me joy, such as reading, puzzles, and baking, but I can find ways to incorporate them into my life. Listening to audiobooks while wrapping and cleaning means I’m still reading. I’m working on an Advent calendar puzzle, which means there are limited pieces each day, so I get my puzzle enjoyment in just 10 minutes every day. I chose to bake only our kids’ favorite Christmas cookie, peanut butter star cookies, and these easy peanut clusters. The rest of the goodies were purchased by local bakers to support them and save my sanity!

There are various ways we can find to stay present, find our peace, and still enjoy the season, and that will look different for all of us. Unfortunately, for me, that meant letting reading and reviewing go for a time. I will also be subbing long-term beginning in January, which will again leave little time for extras. I still plan to share my Best Books of the Year, my First Book of 2026, and as many reviews as I can in the new year. Plus, I have a big dream coming up this winter that I am beyond excited about.

I hope you all have the opportunity to spend time with those you love, reflect on your blessings during the past year, and find a good book or two to read. I appreciate that you take the time to read my reviews, make purchases through my links, and share my posts. It all means so much because I truly love sharing books with all of you. Here’s to 2026 and a year full of wonderful books!

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. ~ Isaiah 9:6 NIV