On December 3, 2024, I underwent gastric bypass surgery, a life-changing decision that marked the beginning of a new chapter. My girlfriends surprised me with golden balloons that spelled out YOU DID IT. Almost two years later, those very same balloons are still hanging on my wall. Now, let's be real, most balloons don't even survive a four-hour party, but these babies are still going strong. Just like me! What started as a beautiful surprise has become something much bigger. Those balloons have witnessed almost two years of changes, challenges, tears, laughter, and everything in between. Every time I look at them, I'm reminded of how far I've come and how much more I'm capable of.

If 2026 has taught me one thing, it's that resilience isn't about never falling. It's about getting back up, adapting, and finding solutions, even when life throws unexpected challenges your way. Fall seven times, stand up eight. This year also taught me what independence truly means: standing on my own two feet, taking responsibility, and trusting myself to figure things out. Gotta take care of myself like the big girl I am. And as Fergie said, Big Girls Don't Cry. Although, let's be real, sometimes we absolutely do, duh! But independence doesn't mean doing everything alone. It takes a village, and oh, how I love my village. From family and friends to unexpected kindness from strangers, every helping hand and thoughtful check-in has meant the world to me. I'm beyond grateful. We gaan door.