01/01/2026
After 42 New Years, I’ve learned one thing for sure: everybody goes through a “dark season”… sometimes more than one.
2025 was one of mine. And now that we’ve crossed into 2026, I’m actually grateful for it. That year taught me more about myself than I ever expected. Life comes at you fast, and those storms rarely send you a calendar invite. 🌧️⚡
Retiring from the military was a bigger challenge than I expected. When you’ve had a built-in sense of purpose for so long, stepping away feels like finishing a 5,000-piece LEGO set… then immediately smashing it and being told, “Cool, now rebuild it—but with new instructions. ”Yeah. That was 2025. 😅
But here’s what I learned:
1️⃣ You can’t go backwards. (Even though we all try.)
2️⃣ It’s OK to let go—your past is still part of your story.
3️⃣ Growth isn’t always wrapped like a shiny gift. Sometimes it looks like chaos.
4️⃣ The right people show up at the right time.
5️⃣ Family stays #1. Always. I need to improve.
6️⃣ Remember the ones who stood with you at your lowest.
7️⃣ Being a veteran doesn’t end—your role just evolves.
8️⃣ A setback isn’t a failure. Success isn’t a straight line.
9️⃣ Watching your kids become adults will blow your mind.
🔟 Only you can change your direction. Only you know what you’re happy looks like.
If 2025 beat you up a little… or a lot… you’re not alone. Plant your foot in the sand, square your shoulders, and tell those negative thoughts “HELL NO.” 2026 is gonna be EPIC ✨
Happy New Year 🥳🎊🎉