Best of 2025
An extremely accurate, completely objective, and definitely not personal list on the Best of 2025
Happy end of 2025, beautiful people!!
This year, there was a whole lot of darkness in the world, which meant it was more important than ever to find the bright spots wherever possible. I know I found them in dance parties with my cousin, making cakes for people I love, and completing my goal of visiting 49 states by the time I turned 30!!
2025 was not gentle—but it was generous in small, beautiful ways. And with that, I give you my winners for Best Of 2025
Best Dressed
Bronwyn Newport — I’m not gonna lie, I think about her closet about four times a week.
Best Song From a Musical
“Still” from Redwood: The Musical
Best Cry
When Lucy Dacus brought out Ani DiFranco to sing Bullseye at the Blossom and Bones Music Festival. I screamed and sobbed.
Best Actress
My dog, when she pretends she’s going to the bathroom but doesn’t, so she can get a longer walk.
Best Book
The Lilac People by Milo Todd
Best App
Lock Me Out — this app is such a game-changer when it comes to cutting down screen time
Best Halloween Costume
My niece and dog nephew as Shrek and Donkey — many parents dress their kids up as a pumpkin for their first Halloween, but my sister said, “My daughter is being SHREK!!”
Best PRN (as-needed medication)
ZOFRAN— truly Zofran is that girl and will always be that girl and I can’t believe I ever lived without her.
Best Rainbow
It’s a tie between Lake Wallenpaupack (May 2025) and Abiquiu (September 2025).
Best Drink
Hypertonic saline IV fluids
Best Flower
The sunflowers in front of my house!! My landlords are avid gardeners and planted the most spectacular garden of sunflowers. It made my year.
NowI’m wishing you all a cozy and peaceful New Year!! Thank you for being on this wild ride with me. I’m so grateful. Now tell me, what’s on your “Best of” List…
Your posts are always on my best of everything list. I’ve learned so much from you! You’ve been a HUGE part of my healing, dearest Kate. ♥️ But on a lighter note, I loved “Sandwich” by Catherine Newman ‘cause I needed to be reminded there are parents as neurotic as me. 😁
Love the Ani DiFranco ref. I'd sob too. One of my favorite stories ...
I thought I was about to die at her show, but I'm pretty sure a joke kept my face symmetrical. It's about getting lost in the music and breaking down racial barriers.
https://darby687.substack.com/p/how-to-get-yourself-murdered