In's and Out's for 2026
Hello from the land between Christmas and New Years!
Merry, merry Christmas! I genuinely forgot it was Monday (these days between Christmas and New Year’s are truly a no-man’s-land), so for this week’s newsletter, please enjoy some of my In’s and Out’s for 2026:
In
Being a better listener.
My job requires me to move quickly and solve problems fast… which is not always the best posture for being a loving, attentive friend. I find myself jumping into problem-solving mode instead of simply being present to the person in front of me (honestly, I should probably do this more at work too). As usual, the Sisters of Life said exactly what my heart needed in their gorgeous winter edition of Imprint. Highly recommend giving it a read!!
Arts and crafts.
I’ve been a rosary-making fiend for the past few months (and yes—I’m still backlogged on orders; they are coming!). It’s been such a joy to make rosaries for my friends: they’re beautiful, and I get to pray for them while creating a gift. I love using my hands—whether it’s cooking, crafting, painting, or playing piano. It’s when I feel most human.
Paris.
Always in. I’m already dreaming of another fall trip to Paris in 2026.
Books.
We love books. Especially classic books. In 2026, I want to intersperse quick reads (which keep me motivated) with solid classics (which tend to shape my heart, mind, and soul more deeply). In 2025, my 30-book goal accidentally discouraged me from tackling bigger books, so this year I’m switching it up: 10,000 pages instead. Hoping that invites a few more ambitious reads.
Sabbath.
I’m not a great break-taker, but 2026 is the year of more rest. I want Sundays to be sacred—filled with time for Jesus and with people who draw me closer to Him. Many of my best days this year were slow, joyful, connected Sundays. Also: more PTO.
Inspiration over obligation.
I’m deeply convinced that God desires abundant life for us (see John 10:10). One of the clearest ways I experience that abundance is by responding to His inspirations — the small invitations to act, move, and engage. The more I say yes to those, the more of His abundant life I experience! And the less pressure and fear I feel around doing things I think I “should” do out of obligation.
Going places on my own.
Sometimes there’s something I want to do, and either no one is around or I don’t have time to coordinate plans. This past year, I finally got over my aversion to going places alone (thanks largely to spending two months in Australia.) Dinner, shows, parks, events… I learned quickly that going alone rarely means being lonely. I made so many friends and had some of the most meaningful conversations of the year simply because I showed up!
Taking care of my skin.
2025 was a rough year for my skin. In March, I started breaking out like a 15-year-old and spent months trying to figure out what was going on before finally getting a perioral dermatitis diagnosis. Immediately, my seven-step skincare routine went out the window in favor of Vanicream gentle cleanser and moisturizer. Praise the Lord, things are mostly stable now, but after this year, I want to be more intentional about protecting my skin and incorporating a bit more moisture and care.
WONDER!
This is my word of the year for 2026 and I’m so excited about it. Erica joined me for a very special podcast episode this week — tune into hear about our words for 2025 and hopes / dreams / plans for 2026!
Out
Overscheduling.
It serves no one when I’m drained, exhausted, and unable to truly attend to the person in front of me. No more back-to-back plans. 2026 shall be a year of ~ space ~.
Fear.
Boy bye!! We are absolutely done making decisions based on things that are never actually going to happen. Acting from fear is so out. 2026 will be a year of courage and trust!
Marriott status.
Reaching ambassador status might be the saddest “achievement” of my year. Fewer hotel nights in 2026, please!
Buying things I don’t need.
I’m over food waste and impulse purchases (especially clothes. I have enough!.) In 2026, I want to be more thoughtful about how and where I spend, and more intentional about eliminating food waste (still figuring out the logistics while traveling).
What about you?! What’s in and what’s out? Reply or comment and let me know!
In Christ,
Jane
What I’m loving lately
Hello from Tahoe
Speaking of miracles, there was absolutely NO snow here last week, but we got 25 inches on Christmas and Boxing Day, so it’s been a gorgeous time!
Reflections on St. Joseph
Wow I LOVED this homily reflection on St. Joseph from my beloved spiritual director Fr. Charlie. I had to pause after the first point and ask God “Do I allow your plans to stretch me and bring out the best in me?” A beautiful seed for reflection!
Prayer intentions
For greater awareness and joy of God’s workings in our lives this coming year
For a special intention
Joining you on the journey to cut food waste! We are blessed in this country to have abundant food but I throw away a lot of food as it gets stale or veggies and fruit go bad. And, I need to get used to cooking for 2 after 30 years of cooking for a hungry family.