As the clock ticks into the New Year, I can’t help but laugh at the whirlwind of moments this year has delivered. From street ministry surprises to the chaos of parrots and twin adventures in my new novel, 2024 felt like a mashup of sitcom episodes and heartwarming life lessons. Grab your coffee and join me for a recap of the quirks and blessings that made this year unforgettable. “Street Ministry Surprises” Every year, street ministry teaches me something new about grace and God’s sense of humor. One particularly memorable day, I met a woman living in her car. She’d draped freshly cleaned laundry over her vehicle and was using the car window as a mirror to fix her hair. It was a picture of resilience, and it humbled me. While I was fumbling with snacks and scripture cards, she exuded a quiet dignity that reminded me how much we underestimate people.

Then there was the time I bought shoes that didn’t fit— intentionally, of course. (Okay, not really. I just wasn’t paying attention.) Later that day, I met a homeless woman who was flipping through an ad with those exact shoes circled. The size? The same as the ones in my car. I handed them over, and she beamed like I’d just passed her a million dollars. If God can turn my shopping mistakes into miracles, who knows what He’ll do next year?

“The Great Parrot Chase” And then there was that story. This year, I finished writing The Mystery of the Sneaky Parrots, where twin boys, Duke and Dylan, brought their parrots, Princess and Clarence, on a school field trip to the zoo and Emma Hobbit comes to the rescue. Naturally, chaos ensued. The parrots escaped, leading to an adventurous chase through lion exhibits and snack stands. Writing it was a wild ride, but here’s the kicker: my twin sister said, “This is exactly what we would’ve done as kids!”

She wasn’t wrong. Growing up as a twin is like living with a built-in partner in crime. We didn’t have parrots, but we had plenty of other mischief. Once, we convinced our parents that the neighbor’s cat had magical powers (spoiler: it didn’t but we did end up with her kittens). So maybe Duke and Dylan are just reflections of us—though thankfully, we never had to outrun lions!

“Twin Shenanigans” Speaking of twin adventures, this year brought plenty of “twin telepathy” moments. Have you ever had a sibling text you something at the exact moment you’re thinking about it? That happens to us all the time. Once, I was writing a scene in my mystery series, and my sister texted me, “Do you think one of your characters would love to hide their birds inside their backpacks?” She literally predicted the exact plot twist I was planning. Spooky or just twin brilliance? You decide.

There’s something comforting about knowing someone out there shares your memories, your quirks, and your love for crazy ideas. My twin has been my sounding board for everything from story ideas to life’s curveballs. And honestly, she’s a better editor than I’ll ever admit.

“Looking Ahead” As I reflect on this year, I see a tapestry of God’s grace, laughter, and lessons woven into each moment. Whether it was a kind smile from a woman in need, a mischievous parrot adventure, or a conversation with my twin that turned into a new book idea, each thread reminded me to embrace life’s quirks.

So, here’s to the New Year! May 2025 bring us more stories to tell, more people to love, and maybe even a few new shoes that actually fit. Whatever comes, I’ll be ready—with my twin by my side, a notebook full of ideas (new mystery coming in the spring) and an open heart for the surprises God has in store.

Happy New Year, friends! Let’s make it a memorable one!