As we step into 2025, I can’t help but feel a renewed sense of hope. A clean slate feels like the perfect time to reflect on the year we’ve just left behind and share my dreams for the year ahead with you.
2024 wasn’t the year I envisioned—it wasn’t the year we hoped to start a family, as my husband and I had planned. Instead, it was a year of unexpected challenges and learning to let go of what I thought life would look like. So here’s a little 2024 in review.
2024 began with sudden numbness in my left foot that gradually spread up the left side of my body. That one symptom opened the floodgates to six MRIs, rounds of blood work, two cortisone injections, multiple neurological assessments, months and months of physical therapy, and ultimately, an entirely different discovery: cysts on both of my kidneys.
My nephrologist advised against conceiving until we could undergo genetic testing, which brought a wave of new fears and uncertainties. For months, we waited to hear if insurance would approve the testing (spoiler: they did, just days before Christmas!). It’s been a whirlwind, but now, we simply wait for more answers on what is to come with my health and that of a potential child.
Finding Light in the Darkness
2024 was painful—physically, emotionally, and mentally. But every difficult moment laid the groundwork for the healing I’m experiencing now. My back feels better, my numbness is easing, and I finally feel a spark of hope returning.
Still, there were more days than I can count last year when I felt like I lost myself. Work felt unbearable, happy moments felt fleeting, and I spent too much time Googling symptoms instead of living in the moment. Through it all, my husband was my rock—reminding me daily that we’re in this together, no matter what. But nothing will, or can take away the horrific feeling of my nephrologist saying “you might loose function of your kidneys“.
As my husband and I navigated these scary words, we were also given a truly life altering moment. Life is short, and we have to make the most of every. single. moment.
A Spark Rekindled
Over the holidays, we took a trip to Germany and Amsterdam, and something inside me shifted. For the first time in months, I felt lighter—physically and emotionally. I cried over incredible meals (in the best way), dreamed about new travels, and rediscovered my love for wellness and self-care.
Suddenly, I was talking about food, health, and life with the kind of passion I hadn’t felt in ages. It felt like a small miracle—a chance to step into 2025 with fresh energy and excitement.
Looking Ahead
This year, I’m embracing that renewed spark with open arms. I’ve updated my website to reflect the things that light me up: foodie travels, simple style, beauty tips, and wellness conversations. I want Linds Alyse to be a space where women of all ages can come for inspiration, support, and joy. I invite you to read my ‘About Me‘ page for even more info.
And maybe, just maybe, this will be the year we start trying for a family so I’ll get to share all of that with you too.
So, to everyone who’s here—thank you for being part of this journey. Your support means everything to me. And I truly I hope you’ll stick around for what’s ahead.
Xoxo,
Linds Alyse
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