Wrapping Up & Winding Down

As each year comes to a close, I catch myself doing the same thing: taking inventory. Not just of my finances, but my career, family, personal life, and spirituality. When all those areas show growth, that’s a successful year in my book.

Let me start by saying that 2025 was a FULL year.

I kicked off January by launching my first book, F*ck Rock Bottom, and I’m wrapping up the end of the year with our annual Friendsgiving celebration and a dream-fulfilling family vacation in December. Between business, family, and the never-ending chase to grow, I still found a way to remind myself to slow down long enough to actually enjoy each passing day.

This time of year has always been interesting for me. Culturally, we don’t celebrate Christmas. Diwali is the big holiday in our home. But I’ve come to appreciate the energy December brings. It’s reflective. Chaotic. And somehow, still full of hope.

Okay but back to Friendsgiving…

We hosted this year, a 14-year-strong tradition, and honestly, my favorite one of the season. It’s the one event that never fails to bring me back to center. Food, laughter, people who’ve been there through every chapter of our lives. It’s a reminder that success doesn’t mean much if you don't share it with the people who matter.

And this December, I’m doing something I’ve wanted to do for years. Surprising the kids with a trip during Christmas week. We were supposed to head up to New York (have you seen the holiday prices there!?), but we chose Plan B instead: Iceland. Arguably the better destination anyway.

We’re heading out on the 22nd to chase the Northern Lights, dip into the Blue Lagoon, and spend Christmas tucked away in a cozy cabin, just the four of us: me, Julie, and the kids.

I’ll still be around before then, though. We’ve got our CityPlat holiday party on the 18th, but after that, it’s family time. A few weeks to disconnect, recharge, and remember why we work so damn hard in the first place.

And speaking of end-of-year celebrations. It’s that time again. Miracle is back.

We started doing it eight years ago at The Haymaker, and nobody does it better. This year, we’re putting our own spin on it: Jack Skellington meets Miracle, running November 20 through December 31. Killjoy’s joining the fun too for its second year of holiday madness.

Come grab a festive cocktail, take in the over-the-top décor, and soak up the season. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Diwali, or just closing out another year, come raise a glass with us.

– G aka the Hustler with Holiday Spirit

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