A time of good cheer.
The holiday season is always a special time for the Shining Beautiful Team. It’s a chance to gather with our favorite people, share laughter, and celebrate all the moments that make life meaningful. But this year, like so many others, we’ve had to adjust and find new ways to embrace the spirit of Christmas.
As many of you know, our annual Christmas party is one of our favorite traditions. It’s a time when friends, family, and our incredible team come together to share stories, food, and festive cheer. Unfortunately, the lingering effects of COVID experienced by Mikelle and two other team members, other seasonal illnesses among the team, and life’s unexpected curveballs forced us to cancel this cherished gathering.
But as we’ve learned over the years, the holidays aren’t about perfection—they’re about presence, resilience, and finding joy in the moment.
So, we got creative and made new memories!
Movie Magic and Light Parades
Instead of letting the disappointment of a canceled party dim our spirits, we decided to treat ourselves to something extra special: a trip to see Moana 2! The music, the laughter, and the heartwarming story were just what we needed to rekindle the holiday magic.
We ventured out to the Christmas in Color Light Parade to add even more sparkle to the season. Driving
through the dazzling displays of twinkling lights, we couldn’t help but smile as we soaked up the beauty and wonder of it all. It reminded us that joy is always within reach—you must look for it. Mikelle’s laughter is our jingle bell sound.
Family and Togetherness
Of course, no Christmas would be complete without time spent with family. Celebrating with her brother and loved ones brought a warmth that no holiday stress could overshadow. Sharing stories, enjoying a simple meal, and laughing at inside jokes reminded us of what the holidays truly mean—connection, love, and gratitude.
Living in the Moment
This season taught us an important lesson: even when plans aren’t as expected, there’s still much to celebrate. The little moments make life extraordinary, whether it’s a favorite movie, a light show, or a quiet evening with family.
Reflecting on this Christmas, we’re filled with hope for the future, even though it feels uncertain. Challenges may come, but with a bit of creativity, resilience, and the support of our incredible community, there’s always something to be grateful for.
Looking Ahead
To our amazing followers, thank you for being part of our journey. Your encouragement and kindness mean the world to us. As we enter the new year, let’s carry the spirit of this season with us: celebrating the small stuff, living in the moment, and holding onto hope.
From all of us at the Shining Beautiful Team, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a New Year filled with light, love, and endless possibilities to shine beautifully.
Warm wishes,
The Shining Beautiful Team
A footnote:
Katherine is navigating the common challenge of managing worries about the future, particularly concerns surrounding the stability of lifelines like Medicaid and Social Security. The question looms: How do we live with the possibility of these critical supports being cut?
To find solace and perspective, Katherine turned to an old classic—Dale Carnegie’s audiobook, Stop Worrying and Start Living. Written decades ago, this timeless resource offers practical strategies for managing worry and stress, reminding us that even in uncertain times, we can find ways to reclaim peace of mind.