Life, Loss, and Learning to Seize the Day

It’s been a while since I’ve just talked about life for a moment. I haven’t picked up book 4 of the Stillhouse Lake series yet because, honestly, life got heavy for a bit.

This week, I lost my grandma—my last living grandparent. We weren’t especially close growing up, but this year has been marked by loss after loss, and it’s all begun to feel like the most difficult, most tragic year of my life. It’s a bittersweet reminder that our loved ones aren’t with us forever. So spend the time, make the phone call, say I love you, and give the extra hug. You’ll never regret doing those things.

Recently, I watched Dead Poets Society again, and as an adult, I think it’s become one of my favorite movies. Not just because of Robin Williams (though that alone would do it), but because of the messages and quiet life lessons woven through it. At one point, he says, “Words and ideas can change the world.” I’m not trying to change the world, but this blog has helped me more than I could’ve imagined a year ago. Writing—putting thoughts into words—has been a balm in a season of grief.

And then there’s “Carpe Diem.” Seize the day. That reminder hits hard when life feels monotonous or a little gray. On the other end of the spectrum, Neil’s storyline always breaks me. It’s the painful reality that not everyone has the freedom or support to live as they want. The final scene always leaves me in tears—those boys standing on their desks, shouting, “O Captain, my Captain!” It’s defiant, moving, and unforgettable. Mr. Keating may have been fired, but his impact was lasting. His purpose was fulfilled.

Looking ahead, I’m ready to start my next book. I’ve decided to step away from the Stillhouse Lake series for now—sorry, Gwen. Maybe someday I’ll return, but lately I’ve been craving a different kind of thriller to pull me out of this slump. Someone Knows by Vi Keeland is queued up and ready to go, and I’m genuinely excited to dive in.

Sorry if this was a bit of a downer recap, but this is life. It’s a rollercoaster with highs and lows. Regardless of the season, we recap it and move forward. We seize the day.

🤎 Abby