A Romantic Getaway and Random Life Updates

A little reflection on 2025, and some updates from our end.

So, Tuesday, Shani and I left the dog and the boys and took a romantic overnight trip in Hudson, NY. 

We started with a stop to see my mother’s best friend, Marie. We’re not technically related, but she calls me the “son of her heart.” We had breakfast, got caught up, and spent a long time talking about the afterlife. Great start to the trip.

From there Shani and I wound our way through snowy back roads to Hudson. We shuffled down the streets in the icy winds, smiling and avoiding patches of ice. We got a drink at a bookstore that doubles as a bar (Shani heaven). We bought a dog toy for Ozzie and a warm hat for Shani. We got designer cocktails at a swanky lounge. We were having a great time.

Then we made it to dinner and Shani asked me the damnedest question.

“What three words would you use to describe 2025?”

Wow. Here we go.

For our first word, I said “discombobulating” and Shani said “disorienting.” Basically the same thing. We were empty-nesters for a while, then in May Jack moved back in. The political situation is a constant source of upheaval. Some health stuff with Alex and Shani’s folks.

My second word was “dog-friendly” because I felt like Ozzie seemed to loom large in our life this year. Shani’s second word was “hopeful,” and I loved hearing that. She felt that the recent elections were encouraging, and she said she felt a general turn in momentum. 

Our third word? Both of us chose “affirming.”

Every year I find her again. Things change; life shifts. Every year is different and requires readjustment and reorienting. And this year, like every year, the answer is her. The answer is us. And I find that very affirming indeed. 

Here are some photos from our year (way too many).

And as promised…some updates.

Jack

So like most graduating seniors he was applying for internships and jobs, and we had no idea where he was headed. But then like a magic trick he told us he’d applied to Teach for America and been accepted. Jack is now working with special needs 3^rd graders at an elementary school in Philadelphia. He’s dealing with some serious shit and he’s genuinely thriving. 

Alex

Alex is sophomore at Emory and majorly diving into biology research. I think he’s going to be published in two papers this year. He’s also a year off chemo and the stupid f-ing tumors have not grown at all. Oh, and he’s also gotten into weightlifting and is super large.

Last Laughs

At work I led the creation of a game called “Last Laughs.” It’s a game designed to help you break the ice and start discussing end-of-life matters with your family. Most people know they should have the conversation, but they don’t. That’s where Last Laughs comes in. Here’s a video explaining it.

Last Laughs won huge in the various award shows in my industry. We at Clios, Cannes, Creative Floor, NYFestival. We won for writing, art, illustration, humor. 

And if you want to buy the game (which you should) – all proceeds go to our incredible partner “The W Connection” which is an organization that supports widows. 

Lastly, I’m writing a book

I’m almost done with a book called Taking the Brick. If you like my writing, you’ll love it. Check out the website if you want to learn more and even pre-order it. I expect it will be released in the next 6 months or so. I’ll share updates as we get closer.

With that…from our family to yours…we wish you a 2026 filled with hope, affirmation, and love.