From Gratitude to Giving: A Holiday Reflection
I hope you enjoyed a wonderful Thanksgiving and found a quiet moment to pause and reflect on moments from this year that meant the most to you. I blinked and the month was gone, but before it was I took time to gather some of my favorite gratitude-filled memories and turned them into a small photo story. If you would like, please visit my Facebook page and see what I am grateful for.
Now that December is here, many of us are deep in the world of check lists for gifts and ‘To Do’s’. If you need a little inspiration, my holiday gift guide is available to provide some gift giving assistance. But before we get too swept up in wrapping paper and ribbons, I want to share a different kind of gift—one that Matt, a team of incredible Rotarian’s, and I were able to be part of during our recent trip to Mexico.
When I first learned we would be building a home in a single day, I admit I had more than a little doubt. And yet… we did it! Rotarian’s from Santa Cruz Sunrise, Aptos/Capitola, Watsonville, Livermore, Los Gatos, and Tecate joined forces, each person bringing their own skills, heart, and determination. Together, we built a safe, secure home for Cecilia and her children—one with doors that lock, windows that protect, and walls that hold warmth and hope.
I showed up on the morning of our build thinking my biggest contribution could be painting. I also vowed I would absolutely not be climbing up on any roofs. And then there I was: learning to hang drywall, mud walls, and using a power tool to attach shingles (ON THE ROOF!!!!) I also learned that climbing down a ladder is much scarier than going up. But I pushed through it, and the experience changed me.
There’s something profound about giving someone a space where their memories can unfold—where new traditions will be created, photos will be taken, and new stories begin. Standing in the circle at the end of the workday, presenting Cecilia keys to her new locking front door, reminded me the importance of community, near and far. Traveling with amazing people, who care, and took great photos, will ensure that everything accomplished on this trip will be remembered for years to come.
As you move through this holiday season, I hope you find a gift to give that feels just as meaningful—whether it’s your time, your skills, or a shared memory.
If you’d like ideas for creating meaningful photo gifts or finally bringing order to the images that tell your story, I’m always here to help. Let’s talk! Schedule a free consultation, or join one of my upcoming workshops in 2026. Let’s make sure the memories you treasure most are organized, protected, and ready to be shared for generations.
Happy Holidays!
