Last night I was at Keitei, a new bar in Benson, with some friends of mine who are visiting from out of town, and the topic around the table turned to reflections on the past year, and our hopes for 2018. What were we most proud of? What went wrong? How are we going to try again and do better?

Each person in the group, with smiles and laughter illuminated by the candle in the middle of the small table, shared their triumphs and failures of 2017: Starting graduate school. Receiving tenure. Finding new love. And also, "Just getting through each week." "Being able to care for my family even though times are tough." Overall, I sensed a theme: We know that we live in times of uncertainty, instability, and for many of us, deep personal and political anxiety. But at the same time, our connections with each other and our relationships with those we care for bring strength, comfort, and renewed resolve. We couldn't do this without each other.

And I couldn't be here without you.

In 2017, I made a very significant step in my life that changed me forever. After years spent learning, preparing, and working, I made the decision to work even harder with the goal of bringing my passion, experience, and grit to the Nebraska Legislature in 2018. I believe we need some political wins, and that we need to elect representatives who respect and understand the people they serve. I will never say it was an easy decision, and I am under no illusion that the hard work is behind me. But I can say, with complete confidence and pride, that you'd be very hard-pressed to find a candidate who cares more about the sustained success and happiness of everyone who wants to call Nebraska home. Already, this journey as a candidate in Legislative District 8 has been one of the great pleasures and privileges of my life.

In 2018, I wish for everybody the fortitude, compassion, and courage to find common ground on that which works to divide us. And I wish for you an abundance of success and happiness, and to find all the good that 2017 owes you!

All the best for safe and happy new year, and thank you. You've made 2017 a year I will never forget.