As I get closer to finishing my book, Always November: Lessons in Loss, Love, and Resilience, I’ve been reflecting on where this journey leads next. Between the book and the podcast, I’ve found such a deep sense of purpose in helping others navigate their grief.
One thing that’s been brought to my attention is the need for more structure—something tangible to help people walk through their own journey. That might come through the podcast, the book, this Substack, my speaking, or even just conversations. But I also feel called to offer more. I’m beginning to explore options like journal prompts, videos, group Zooms, or one-on-one sessions.
I’ve never claimed to be an “expert” in grief or resilience through formal education, but life has been a relentless teacher. I lost my best friend at 8 years old when he was hit by a car in Yountville. By middle school, I’d already learned we weren’t invincible, losing friends to tragedies—two on Highway 29 here in Napa, and another to a violent act. In high school, another friend was taken in an accident. Each loss left me wondering: How much can one person take?
And then, the unthinkable—losing a child. It’s something no parent should ever have to face. Losing Alaina shattered me, but it also opened my eyes to how much love exists in this world, even in the darkest moments.
What continues to surprise me is how much hope, love, resilience, faith, and forgiveness resonate with others when I share my story. It reminds me that we’re all connected through our struggles and our healing.
So, here’s to new endeavors. To my friends: please don’t ever feel obligated to join anything that doesn’t feel right for your own grief journey. My heart is simply to help in whatever way I can. I believe we all have the capacity for resilience—if we allow ourselves to feel and to heal.
No matter your religious background, faith—simply the act of believing—can carry you through. And if forgiveness is part of your path, as difficult as it may be, I promise it will set you free. I truly believe your loved one would want that for you—for them, and for yourself.