What I’m Reading, Where I’m Going & What’s Next

We have more new friends to welcome this month! I met many of you at the Holiday Mart in Blue Springs, and I’m so glad you’re here. Welcome to this amazing community. We share a love of books, travel, curiosity, and all things positive. I think you’re going to fit right in.

🎧 I Asked. You Answered. And We Have a Winner!

Last month, I asked if you’re an audiobook fan, and you responded in droves. About 17% of you listen to audiobooks regularly, which surprised me in the best way. Most of you tune in while driving or at work.

Everyone who responded was entered into a giveaway contest. And we have winners! 🎉 Sonja P. and Marcia B. Check your email and get back to me soon. I need to hear from you by Monday, the 22nd, if not, we’ll select new winners.

Don’t worry if you didn’t win. We’ll kick off another giveaway in January to start the year with a bang.

📚 What I’m Reading (and Listening To) I’m starting to build my 2026 TBR list, and I want your help. Hit reply and tell me the one book that must be on my list next year. I’ll share your recommendations in January.

Here’s what’s on my nightstand right now:

The Correspondent by Virginia Evans - This one is getting a lot of buzz. I’m about a quarter of the way in, and while it’s a slow start, I’m intrigued enough to keep going. It’s different, and sometimes that’s half the appeal.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid - I loved the opening, but halfway in, I’m feeling a bit underwhelmed. I know this book has devoted fans, so I’m sticking with it. Final verdict coming soon.

Inheriting Murder by Jamie Rutland Gillespie - I read this as part of an “Adopt an Author” event in a Facebook group (Linda and Friends Book Club and Author Promotions). This was my first cozy mystery. While thrillers and historical fiction are still my go-to genres, I enjoyed this one. It was sweet, light, and a reader-friendly mystery.

Next up on my TBR list: The Book of Lost Names by Kristin Harmel. I’m really looking forward to this one, so stay tuned.

How do I decide what to read next? You.

Reply to this email or send recommendations to sandy@sandyclements.com.

✈ Travel Notes & Favorite Finds I wrapped up November with a road trip to the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota.

Yes, we went on Black Friday.

Yes, we took three teenagers.

Yes, it snowed.

Yes, we were exhausted.

And yes, we had a blast.

When I travel, I always love sharing favorite food finds. If you’re ever at MOA and want something beyond food court fare, I highly recommend Cedar + Stone, Urban Table. It’s perfect for a relaxed, sit-down meal. The crispy pancetta Brussels sprouts, creamy wild rice soup, and honey-lavender glazed Amish chicken were standouts. 🎄 Community Moments That Matter Our local library hosted a small business goal-setting day, and I attended with my youngest daughter. We created vision boards during lunch, and it was both fun and energizing. I highly recommend making your own vision board if you’re looking to refocus and get excited about what’s ahead.

I was also invited to be part of a Christmas Holiday Mart in Blue Springs. What a joy to meet so many amazing people, talk books, and share stories.

Next up: Florida and Texas. I’ll be documenting favorite stops and restaurants along the way. 😉 ❤ Celebrate Friends & Family Friendship and family are lifegiving, even though they can be complicated. Hard does not mean impossible.

When I was growing up, I was in Girl Scouts. We went to camp, earned merit badges, developed friendships, and sang songs. One song still sticks with me: Make new friends but keep the old. One is silver and the other gold.

Over the years, I’ve learned that friendships require a little bravery. Saying yes. Accepting invitations. Trying something new, even when it feels uncomfortable. Not every connection lasts forever, and that’s okay. Some friendships grow from timing, proximity, or shared goals.

I encourage you to look back at your photos and calendar from the past year. What are your most memorable moments? If you’re like me, they will most likely be centered around friends and family. Moments that happened because you said YES!

Here are some of my memorable moments of 2025.

💌 Until Next Time…

Wishing you a wonderful holiday season. Savor the moments you have, hold close the people you love, and remember the reason for the season.

Wishing you a magical holiday season, Sandy