07/19/2026
The past month has been one of the most unforgettable seasons of my life—for reasons I never could have imagined.
I’ve experienced some of the highest highs and the lowest lows, often within the same week.
I had the incredible honor of helping bring to life the food and beverage experience surrounding the opening of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library. Watching thousands of people gather to celebrate history, community, and something so much bigger than ourselves reminded me exactly why I love creating experiences that bring people together. It was exhausting, exhilarating, and deeply rewarding. Being a part of North Dakota’s history was a dream come true.
But while one dream was unfolding, life had other plans.
-My car was stolen.
-A massive oak tree came crashing into our yard, destroying our backyard and shed.
And then came the hardest goodbye of all—we lost our sweet Salsa.
She wasn’t “just a dog.” She was family. She was the little soul who greeted us every day, made us laugh when we needed it most, and loved us unconditionally. She was small but mighty, and was the lady in charge of her brother and sister, Chip and Margarita. The house feels quieter without her grumbles, and our hearts are still learning what life looks like in her absence.
This month has reminded me that joy and grief don’t wait their turn. They exist together. You can celebrate a milestone while your heart is breaking. You can be incredibly grateful and incredibly heartbroken at the very same time.
Through it all, I’ve been reminded how resilient people can be, how quickly perspective can change, and how deeply kindness matters.
To everyone who has checked in, offered a hug, sent a text, helped clean up, or simply held space for us—thank you. You probably have no idea how much it meant.
Here’s to rebuilding what’s been damaged, holding tightly to the memories that matter, and believing that brighter days are ahead.
And to my sweet Salsa... thank you for every tail wag, every cuddle, every gallop through the yard and every moment of unconditional love. You’ll always be our fierce little girl.
