Life Happened: A December Update
Navigating Holiday Grief While Celebrating Life's Small Victories
Hi. 👋
Hello.
I know - I’ve been MIA for a while.
See what happened was . . . life.
Life happened.
I don't know about you, but this season of "the holidays" isn't my favorite. Yes, I love the magic of Christmas lights and enjoy a good holiday dinner, but this season carries a lot of grief for me.
I've had relationships fall apart during this time of year, lost people (some quite recently), and face numerous grief-iversaries. Even though I'm not actively grieving some of these losses this year, grief is like muzak at the mall—it's always playing in the background, making each day a little harder to get through.
While this soundtrack of grief has been keeping me company these past few months, I've also had some celebrations. My sister got married, my consulting business picked up, and I began producing someone else's podcast.
Navigating these highs and lows is exhausting, and consequently, my work here at Remember . . . That One Time slipped to the bottom of my priority list. Trust me—this wasn't what I wanted, but it happened.
I still have a passion for discussing my life through TV and pop culture; I'm just figuring out how to make all the pieces fit.
I recently made a mind map of all my projects from this year—it's a lot. On one hand, I'm thrilled because it's the most creative I've been in YEARS (thanks
and WriteOn). On the other hand, it's overwhelming because these projects are difficult to maintain.So that's where I’m at.
As a season of grief typically does for me, I'm in a place of reflection and revision. My plans for Remember . . . That One Time were ambitious when I had little else going on, so now I need to reorganize to preserve this creative outlet.
You may be asking—like President Bartlet—what's next?
Well, I'm still going to write and podcast in this space, but I can't commit to specific dates. I don't want to create content just for the sake of publishing. I want this space to remain authentic, honest, and open—and I can't force that. While it's tempting to promise weekly newsletters or bi-weekly podcasts, I know that's not the right approach, and I believe we'll all benefit from this flexibility.
Before I wrap up, let me share what's been keeping me company on screen during this season of readjustment.
Shows brought to you by the letter S:
Somebody Somewhere (HBO) — It's like Schitt's Creek for middle-aged women reconnecting with their roots. Bridgette XXX is brilliant in this, and the whole cast shines. I know I've mentioned this show before, but it's a must-watch. The final season is available now on HBO. While it's disappointing it was canceled, here's hoping another network picks it up.
Silo (AppleTV+) — This captivating dystopian series might hit a little too close to home, but it offers a fresh take on the genre. Full of mystery and clear parallels to our present day, I binged the first season right before Season 2 and haven't missed a weekly episode since!
Shrinking (AppleTV+) — I absolutely adore this show. It carries Ted Lasso's warmth without the sports angle. The stellar ensemble cast each gets their moment to shine. I appreciate how it tackles mental health in such an accessible way, and Harrison Ford's “Harrison Ford-ness” is the cherry on top.
Survivor (CBS) — Season 47 just wrapped up, and what a fantastic ride it was!
Shows brought to you by other letters:
Bad Sisters (AppleTV+) — I'm a late convert to this British dark comedy about sisters navigating life together. Though I didn't catch Season 1 until this year, I've been completely hooked and loving every episode of Season 2.
Real Housewives of SLC and NYC — I know, I know... but sometimes you just need some pure entertainment!
That's all I've got for now, peeps. Sending whatever vibes you need to close out 2024 and beyond. Thanks so much for being here!
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grief as muzak is the perfect analogy!