Jen Pen's Journeys

I made springerle cookies this year. 

My mom used to make them and I had NO idea

how time intensive they were.

My dad used to say they were worth gold

since they took so much effort.

I understand now!

Isn't that how life is sometimes?

You have no perspective into how much effort

has been put into something you take for granted?

And the love!

We can't comprehend how much LOVE 

has been invested into something.

I made a batch of these cookies

for my mother and let her know

that I had no idea whatsoever

how much she showed 

LOVE 

through her actions.

I am grateful for these insights.

As the door closes on 2025 I am able to reflect on 

many blessings that opened up to me 

this month and over the year.

Our neighbors and friends continue to 

bring light and joy into our lives.

And laughter! So much laughter!

Thank you to my Improv, Storytelling 

and Stand Up classmates and instructors!

I had many an adventure in Chicago with friends. 

Saw some shows.

Finally saw the light up El!

Sending mail to friends, phamily, and family 

continues to be one of my greatest pleasures.

I was able to brave the icy roads and get up north 

to have a visit with my mother.

I was gifted an amazing sweater and wore it to

our annual holiday party.

Phamily photo.

December 26th  we took off to Cincy to see the grandkiddos!

I brought back flu germs...

I also brought back 8 compilation LPs.

I've enjoyed spinning them

while blowing my nose.

That's another year "in the bag" as they say.

Or, "that's a wrap."

Although I am a bag lady, not a (w)rapper.

Stay tuned:

January 24, 2026 will be monumental day.

and January 27, 2026 will be a colorful one.

P.S.

Peace be with you.

Jen Pen