As we celebrate the holidays and ring in the new year, I wanted to reflect on this past year.
There is a story my dad used to share in his presentations—one that I often share in mine—and it goes like this:
A professor stood at the front of the room and placed a jar on the table. Next to it were big rocks, pebbles, and a bottle of cold Budweiser. He first put the big rocks into the jar and asked the class if the jar was full. They said yes. He then poured in the pebbles, shook the jar, and the pebbles filled the spaces between the rocks. Again, he asked if the jar was full, and the class answered yes. Finally, he picked up the bottle of Budweiser and poured the entire contents into the jar, filling all the remaining empty space. The students laughed.
The professor explained that the jar represents your life. The rocks are the important things—your family, your spouse, your children, your health, your work, and doing the things you love. These are the things that, if everything else were lost and only they remained, your life would still feel full. The pebbles are the small stuff. If you put the pebbles in first, there’s no room for the rocks. The same is true in life: if you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff, you won’t have room for what truly matters.
One student raised her hand and, of course, asked about the Budweiser. What does the beer represent? The professor smiled and said, “I’m glad you asked. It just goes to show that no matter how full your life might seem, there’s always room for a cold, fresh Budweiser.”
As I reflect on 2025, this story comes to mind. My big rocks have been:
Time and love shared with my family.
I was blessed with our second grandson, Coleman James; and with time spent with my mom and father-in-law in Tallahassee; my dad and siblings in St. Louis; and our children. This includes working alongside our son Tripp, now leading the beer company; Sophie, now working as a Buyer at Hearth & Soul; and seeing Teddy more often during our visits to Jacksonville Beach. I am so proud of each and every one of them—so different, so special, and all contributing to the world in meaningful ways.
Yesterday, I attended Woods' first Christmas program at his adorable preschool. It filled my heart with so much joy and brought back countless memories. Gratitude was the overwhelming feeling during those very special 20 minutes.
And of course, my most important family member—my soulmate, husband, and best friend, Tripp. He truly completes me. I know that phrase may be overused, but it is true. He is my balance, my confidant, my laughter, my support, and my daily joy.
Special quality time with friends.
Whether near or far, time with friends feeds my soul. I am so grateful for the opportunity to travel, visit their homes, learn about their lives and families, and enjoy great concerts together. Did I mention music and concerts also feed my soul? Morgan Wallen, Taylor Swift, and Lainey Wilson have been favorites as of late. 2025 also brought a new experience—RV traveling with my incredible husband and friends. It was truly one-of-a-kind quality time that I will never forget.
Work.
Work is another big rock. I absolutely love serving others through Hearth & Soul—bringing joy, meaning, and enrichment to people’s lives, whether through experiences or special things, and simply providing a place where people can feel valued and relaxed. I am so grateful for the Hearth & Soul family that brings this experience to life every single day.
Exercise.
I write this as I take my 30-minute stationary bike ride. I make time to exercise every morning—it clears my mind, boosts my energy, and sets the tone for the day with natural endorphins. I’ve actually maintained this habit every day since I started working at age 21 after college.
Our pups.
Caring for our amazing furry soulmates and spending time with them brings so much joy to our lives.
And last, but certainly not least, my relationship with God.
I am deeply grateful for His love, guidance, and support for me and our family each and every day. I thank Him for our health, happiness, safety, and the opportunity to contribute to this world.
Now, let’s turn to the pebbles. These include trips to the beach with my toes in the sand; traveling to markets with our team to discover unique finds for Hearth & Soul; special dinners and concerts with friends; a clean house (thank you, Taieb); and enjoying a cold beer or a glass of red wine at the end of a long day.
Looking ahead to 2026, instead of traditional New Year’s resolutions, I now guide my year with the ONE WORD philosophy from the book One Word to Guide Your Life. It’s a simpler way for me to focus and find direction each day.
2026 brings the Year of the Horse—an animal symbolizing strength, courage, and majesty. From my childhood pony, Foxy, to our family’s history with the Clydesdales, to my daughter’s years as a competitive equestrian, horses have always held special meaning for me.
Choosing just one word wasn’t easy, but for 2026, my word is ALIGNMENT. I will focus on aligning my priorities to bring balance to my personal and professional life. I will help our team align their priorities to bring clarity and further our mission of connecting with friends to make their day. I will make time for Pilates and exercise to align my body, and I will continue to prioritize meaningful moments with family and friends.
I am incredibly grateful for the life I get to live and for each and every one of you. Cheers to a happy, healthy, and fulfilling 2026—filled with love and laughter.
Cheers!
Susie
