Merry, Happy Days

My first post in this new, bi-weekly format

Hi Friends! I hope you’re enjoying some merry, happy days as we finish up 2025 and look ahead to 2026.

In case you missed them, I’m including links to my last two blog posts:

December 17th — Surviving the Holiday Season with Invisible Illness

December 24th — A Spoonie’s Guide to Self-Acceptance

Writing Prompt:

I’m a big believer in the 5-minute writing exercise. The only rule is to keep writing (whether that be typing on a keyboard or writing on paper). If you stray from the prompt, keep going. Let your writing take you where it wants to take you. The prompt is just a way to get started. Today’s writing prompt comes from page 28 of Kicking in the Wall by the late Barbara Abercrombie.

“Write about the fabric of your life. Be literal or think of it as a metaphor. Is your life fraying, stretched, or tucked in tightly? Cotton, wool, silk, polyester, cashmere? Are buttons missing, or is it covered with sequins? Ironed or wrinkled?”

Something I’m Wondering About:

Friends, what’s the difference between a couch and a sofa?

Thoughts and explanations welcomed. Let me know in the comments. Do you tend to use one term over the other?

Wendy Stamp of Approval:

(Originally, I planned on labeling this section “Recommendation.” However, while writing this post, I suddenly thought of “Wendy Stamp of Approval,” and I like that a whole lot more.)

Friends, I find this time of the year, when we’re in the last days of a year and are looking ahead to a new year, is a time of great reflection. I wanted to share with you this video. When my now-almost-eighteen-year-old son was a little guy, he and his Grandpa (my dad) would watch this video together. It’s a beautiful message, and I hope it brings a smile to your face.

This date in history:

Did you know both Stan Lee and Denzel Washington share a birthday?

Stan Lee, born December 28th, 1922

Denzel Washington, born December 28th, 1954

Take care, friends. Wishing you all a joyful, peaceful new year!!

My next blog post publishes on Wednesday, December 31st. If you’re not already signed up, visit my website to sign up. And, you can expect my next Substack to arrive in your inbox on Sunday, January 11th, 2026.