What a year it has been for us!

Our sweet Jill is now over a year old—time truly flies. She’s growing quickly, and though she struggles with some anxiety, we’re hopeful as we explore what will help her most. Meanwhile, Bubby remains his lovable self, always ready for couch cuddles and sneaky basement adventures.

The year began with Anna rocking pink hair in January while we enjoyed trivia nights with friends. We celebrated our niece’s birthday from afar and welcomed our second nephew—being the “cool Aunt and Uncle” is a role we cherish.

February ushered in Anna’s purple hair era, which continues to this day. She volunteered with the Nashville Humane Association and helped with their Puppy Bowl around the Super Bowl. We also added bingo nights with friends to our routine.

March brought new adventures: Anna walked a 5K, we tackled an escape room with friends, and Anna committed to wearing skirts throughout Lent. It was also the month she launched her cat ear business, producing countless pairs with creativity and enthusiasm.

April was our anniversary month, celebrated with a getaway to Chattanooga. We indulged in homemade pasta, live music, and plenty of kitty cuddles. With friends, we visited a British-themed pub and cheered at a Nashville Predators hockey game. Anna also debuted her booth at a vendor fair for “ANXperiences Custom Cat Ears.” While sales were modest, the experience was invaluable and full of joy.

May focused on health, both physical and mental. Anna created a poster at work and handed out stress-relief gifts to coworkers for Mental Health Awareness Month. Cameron faced a tough battle with Covid that developed into pneumonia, but thankfully recovered. Around the same time, Anna’s car was scratched by a driver’s ed student—yet thanks to her father-in-law’s creativity, “Libby” now sports racing stripes that look better than ever.

June was unforgettable. We traveled to Michigan for the Electric Forest music festival, where we had gotten engaged two years earlier. The weather, music, and atmosphere made it one of our top five vacations ever. We also visited Lake Michigan and spent time with our friends, the Ainsworths. Later that month, Anna underwent ear surgery to repair her eardrum. It was challenging, but with Cameron’s support, she healed well.

July was filled with family and fun. Anna attended her cousin’s wedding, visited the Ark Encounter, and stopped by a cat café in Louisville. Together, we enjoyed bowling nights and cozy movie evenings with friends.

August was a milestone month with both of our birthdays. Anna celebrated with a high ropes course and mini golf, while Cameron enjoyed kitty cuddles. Anna made the decision to leave her job, giving her more time for walks, cats, and driving Cameron to work so they could spend extra time together. She also visited her family in Michigan, though moving there remains a future dream rather than an immediate plan.

September brought new beginnings. Anna started working as a receptionist at a vet clinic and participated in a larger vendor fair. Cameron stepped into a temporary manager role at his bank, gaining valuable experience.

October was festive with Oktoberfest celebrations alongside friends. Anna debuted her new bangs, which she adores, and participated in another small vendor fair. Karaoke nights added plenty of laughter to the month.

As October turned into November, Anna traveled to Pennsylvania to celebrate her sister’s birthday, soaking up cuddles and kisses from her niece and nephews. Together, we enjoyed Tailgate Brewery and football games. Thanksgiving in Cincinnati was filled with family and plenty of football.

December wrapped up the year with a Tennessee Titans game alongside friends. Anna also participated in a Hot Cocoa Crawl around Nashville, sampling delicious drinks from local coffee shops. Anna’s parents came to visit and they went to a Predators game, saw the Christmas lights at Zoolumination, and Anna’s dad got to do some house repairs for them.

2026 will be crazy, but we are ready to tackle whatever comes!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!