2020. What a year. I love to reflect on the previous year by scrolling back through all my photos and videos on my phone remembering the memories made as well as read through journal entries seeing how the Lord has remained faithful and true in my life. While I felt a heaviness blanketed around our world, there were also many moments of gratitude. I never would have thought I would get to sit across from my husband for two and a half months in our little apartment watching him virtually zoom his way through his second year of law school. I cherish all the quality time we had together; getting fresh air and finding new hidden gems in our neighborhood were some of the simple things that I loved the most.

My family has a tradition of choosing a word for the year. While I love setting goals and challenging myself to bloom + grow with every new year, I find that holding onto one word and really focusing on how I can incorporate it into my life over the course of a year seems a little more tangible than a list of goals. Brave became my word for 2020 and it could not have been more fitting for a year filled with circumstances that initially sparked more worry than courage. I would be lying if I said I was not fearful going back to work in a job that involves being in people’s mouths all day. I’ll never forget trying an N95 mask on for the first time as my coworkers and I prepared for our new protocol; our new normal. I have a new appreciation and respect for essential workers who are on the true front-lines of this pandemic.

2020 has equipped me to better surrender my plans in 2021. This will be a big year for us as Chas will graduate from law school in June and then our next adventure awaits. As someone who loves to have a plan and dream of the future, the unknowns can cause me to worry. In order to trust the Lord, you have to surrender. So that, my friends, is my word for this new year. Surrender.

I’m extra grateful to be home with my family during these last few weeks of 2020. There was not a break in the rain yesterday and it felt like a little wink from the Lord that He is making all things new.

Chas and I were reflecting on our favorite memories together from the year and I was sweetly surprised when he said our editorial shoot with Sophie Kaye made the list! Sophie is an incredibly talented film photographer based out of New York and was in Chicago for the weekend and asked us to model for her. She came with the most beautiful Millia London couture gown that was a dream to dress up in. Chas couldn’t help but giggle at all the congratulations we received as we tried to gracefully stroll the streets of Michigan Avenue. I can’t wait to frame these in our home to have as a momento of 2020.

May His favor be upon you in the New Year,

Madeline Rose