Newsletter for January 30, 2026

"Me in elementary school—the era of wanting to control the party! 🎈"

Stomping My Feet vs. Turning It Over

Do you ever think to yourself: What should I be doing? I want to be doing more, but what exactly is it that I should do? For me, I’ve learned to trust God for those answers.

When I got sober, I was introduced to a concept in Step 3: “Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him.” Having been raised Catholic and then attending the Episcopal Church for decades, this step has been marinating in me for a long time. It has taken on different meanings at every stage of my life.

I remember thinking it was insane that when I was struggling with a specific problem—let’s say, a relationship—I would walk into a meeting and the topic was exactly what I needed to hear. Was that a coincidence or a "God wink"? I believe it was the latter.

I’ve been in recovery for a long time now, but when I first heard Step 3, I was bamboozled! I thought, "You want me to turn over not only my life, but my family, my friends, and my relatives? NO WAY!" Since I was a little girl, I wanted to control every situation. I even recall my sister’s birthday being five days before mine; instead of embracing a joint celebration, I decided I wanted no part of it. If it wasn’t all about me, I was out! I thought if I didn't go, they wouldn't have the party. Boy, was I wrong. Looking back, I did this all the time. I never surrendered to God’s will—it had to be my way or the highway.

Today, as a 57-year-old woman, I do everything in my power to "let go and let God." What does that mean, exactly? It means that all throughout the day, I have to pause and give everything—and everyone—to Him. I cannot make things happen. I tried that for years, as I told you, and it didn't work. I have to trust that God has me, just like He had me in that meeting where I heard exactly what I needed to hear. If I trust, He delivers.

I cannot manipulate, pay for, or push my own agenda anymore. My personal "wants" in the moment don't really matter. When I was a child and didn't get my way, I’d stomp my feet and scream. As an adult, I’ve had the urge to do the same thing, but let’s be clear: it isn’t attractive!

Trusting that there is a plan—even when we don’t know what that plan is—is what I call surrender. I surrender each day. It isn’t always comfortable, but in the end, what is meant to happen will happen. When we change our perspective and let go, life has a way of falling into place.

You probably see this in your own life. When a situation just fits and everything works perfectly, you know it’s right. On the other hand, when you’re fighting everything and everyone, that’s your signal that you’re doing something wrong. You have to let go! There is no use in fighting. We must trust God.

This is not easy, but I can tell you from personal experience: it is the only way to handle life.

If you have any questions or need help getting to that place of letting go, please reach out. I’d love to hear your thoughts.

XO,

Bizzy

#ItsBizzy

Newsletter for January 23, 2026

#100! 🥳 Happiness, Defiant Joy, and a Milestone...

Can we just take a second to celebrate? This is the 100th edition of this newsletter! Yipppeee!! 🥳

Whether you’ve been with me since Issue #1, or this is your very first time opening an email from me, thank you for being part of the It’s Bizzy community. Writing these to you every week has become one of my favorite rhythms, and I’m so grateful you’re here.

Fittingly, for this milestone issue, I’ve been reflecting on a word that keeps showing up in my thoughts lately: JOY.

It started when my friend Becky Shipos mentioned the difference between happiness and joy on our January podcast. Since then, I haven't been able to stop thinking about it. Why does happiness feel so fleeting while joy feels like an anchor?

The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines joy as:

• A feeling of great happiness or pleasure; delight.

• A state of great happiness; bliss.

• A source or cause of delight.

But as I’ve sat with this, I’ve realized that while happiness often depends on our "happenings" (things going exactly our way), joy is something much deeper.

In fact, I just sat down with the incredible Stasi Eldredge for an upcoming episode of the podcast, and she speaks about something she calls "Defiant Joy." It’s the kind of joy that chooses to see the beauty and the light, even when the world feels heavy or the "crops are failing," as Maia Wojciechowska once wrote.

Before I go, I want to hear from you: In honor of our 100th newsletter, tell me—what is bringing you JOY right now? Is it a "bundle of joy" in the family, the "pride and joy" of a new hobby, or just a quiet moment of peace?

Hit reply and let me know. Your replies help make sure these emails keep landing in your inbox (and they truly make my day!).

Wishing you a weekend full of the "good stuff,"

XO

Bizzy

Newsletter for January 16, 2026

How do you know you are in the right place?

I have been a runner my entire life. Now, I don’t mean I’m a marathon runner or even a daily jogger—the truth is, I never actually run! But I have spent my life running from uncomfortable feelings.

For a long time, I wanted to blame the places I lived and the people around me for how I felt. Taking responsibility for your emotions and acknowledging exactly where your feet are planted is incredibly hard. Why? Because it forces us to admit we are often powerless over the circumstances, but responsible for our reactions.

My journey of running from "uncomfortable" has kept me on the move for years. I’ve lived in six different places in the last seven years. I did manage to stay put for over a decade once, but it wasn’t easy; the only reason I did it was for my kids. Today, I’ve been in one place for almost three years. Do I still occasionally want to run? Yes. But I don’t, because I finally realized the truth: Wherever you go, there you are.

Staying put has taught me how to sit with, enjoy, and even embrace discomfort. I’ve learned the hard way that feelings aren’t facts. They are like the weather; they come, and they go.

The real shift happened when I started choosing gratitude over self-pity. Nineteen years ago, I was introduced to the "Gratitude List"—a tool designed to pull me out of the "yuck" and force me to see the good. And we all have good. If it’s as basic as clean water, electricity, food in the fridge, or the fact that you have two eyes to read this—the list can go on ad nauseam.

Using this tool changes everything. It doesn’t matter how heavy the feelings are. Faith and fear cannot live in the same moment. God gave us brains and tools to help us sit with the unknown. We might not know what’s around the corner, but He has a plan, and no matter what, we will be okay. We are only on this Earth for a finite amount of time. We don’t know the timing, but God does—so why not enjoy exactly where we are, no matter the circumstances?

In my latest podcast episode with Sarah Pribis, she talked about sitting on a curb in NYC and finally realizing she was on the right path. It reminded me that the "right place" isn't a zip code; it's a state of mind.

So, no more running for me. I’m replacing the "run" with appreciation and love.

I hope you have a wonderful weekend and that this gives you a little hope. Nothing lasts forever, so hold on to what you have and love it! If you are in enough discomfort today, do something to change your perspective. Move a muscle, change a thought.

Thanks so much for reading. I am sending you all big hugs and love.

XO,

Bizzy

#ItsBizzy

Newsletter for January 9th, 2026

Looking Back to Move Forward

We made it through the first eight days of January and 2026! How are you doing? Feeling good? Are you sticking with those New Year’s resolutions?

I haven’t necessarily made resolutions this year, but I have taken a "life inventory"—looking back at 2025 to see what I want to bring with me into 2026 and what I need to leave behind. It is so incredible to think that this August, God willing, I will celebrate two decades without a drink! That is insane to me, given that I once couldn’t imagine going a week without a glass of wine. Yet, here I am.

I give all the credit for my success to my 12-step programs. Ironically, this year I want to focus more on the "restraint of tongue and pen." Essentially, I want to practice the art of keeping my mouth shut! For years, I felt it was vital to share my opinions with everyone, and I often shared too much about my personal life. I don’t beat myself up for that openness, because I know I shared my stories so that others wouldn’t feel as alone as I once did.

On this journey, I used to think I was "special"—that no one else had the heartaches I had. I was completely wrong. We all have problems; we all have things we are ashamed of or things we might take to our graves. Having "fellow travelers" by my side has given me a safe place to share those secrets.

It is my wish that everyone has someone special they can feel safe with—someone who won't judge or betray their confidence. (BTW, I am coaching again! If you want to find more clarity, you can get my Free Guide to Finding Clarity and Peace here.)

Back to my thoughts (LOL)—I am practicing deep self-care in 2026. As for my opinions, I’ll save them for safe spaces, like my podcast and dear friends. It’s strange; growing up in the 70s and 80s, my parents had friends with vastly different political and religious beliefs. It didn’t matter. In fact, it made dinner parties more interesting! You could share a thought, and whether you agreed or not, you learned something. It gave you perspective. That is what America was built on: the freedom to share. It was rarely as mean or violent as it feels today.

How many friends have you lost since COVID? I’ve lost a lot. People think I’m too opinionated or that my views are "wrong" simply because they believe something else. I understand that people come into our lives for seasons, but I’ve had a lot of "season dwellers" and not many lifelong friends lately. I think many of you might be experiencing the same thing.

Why can’t we come together in 2026? It doesn’t have to be about how the country is run or what you believe about God; what if we connected simply because we are human beings who need connection? Mother Teresa said, “The reason we don’t have peace is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other.” She was right. We’ve forgotten pleasantries and kindness.

Speaking of kindness (or the lack thereof), hold onto your hat for this story from the holidays...

I was driving to Mass on New Year’s Day—a five-minute drive max. I was running right on time (which means not a second to spare!). I got through the first light, but at the second, the car in front of me just sat there on the green. I gave a very soft "wake up" honk—not aggressive at all. As the car finally turned left and I turned right, I glanced over. The passenger looked me dead in the eye and screamed, "FU!"

I was flabbergasted. Jaw dropped. Well, I get into my pew, and during Mass, when it comes time to offer the Sign of Peace... the man who told me to "FO" was sitting two pews behind me!

People are angry these days, but at least he was in church. Hopefully, he left in a better mood! LOL.

This year, I am choosing to look for the positive in every situation. You can always find the light if you look for it. Like I always say: when life gives you lemons, you must make lemonade.

Thanks for reading. I’ll be back next week. Until then, know that you are never alone.

XOXO,

Bizzy

Newsletter for December 19, 2025

Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and a Milestone 600th Episode!

Hey Bizzy Fam,

Can you believe it? I have just dropped my 600th episode! I am absolutely over the moon that so many of you have enjoyed my content over the past 10 years. Grateful doesn’t even cut it—I am truly blessed. Bizzy Living Sober has been my passion and my mission, and I am so excited to keep this journey going for years to come. Hearing from you—knowing that even just one person finds my message helpful on this journey here on this planet—is the greatest gift I could receive.

As we move into the heart of the Christmas season, I am filled with such deep gratitude. Let’s face it: God put us here to help others. That is my core mission—to help addicts, alcoholics, and their loved ones live a life of abstinence and joy. But we can’t do it empty-handed. I want to help you add new tools to your "tool box." Now, I’m not talking about a screwdriver or a hammer! I’m talking about the spiritual tools that actually hold a life together: trusting God with your whole heart and knowing, deep down, that you are never, ever alone.

Whether you are in the trenches of recovery or supporting someone you love, remember that this season is about the ultimate hope. You have the tools, you have the community, and you have a God who is walking right beside you.

Thank you for being part of these 600 conversations. I can’t wait to see what God has in store for us in the next 600!

Wishing you a Christmas filled with peace, a tool box filled with faith, and a heart filled with love.

With love and gratitude,

Have a wonderful, magical Christmas.

Sending big hugs

XO

Bizzy

Newsletter for December 12, 2025

Surrender the Struggle—Embrace God's Peace This Christmas!

Hey Bizzy Fam,

Peace vs. Peacemaker—how are you faring this holiday season? Are you overwhelmed with emotions, too many expectations, and not enough time? Or is your life quieter than ever, leaving you looking back at the chaos with a pang of longing? Both hit hard, and neither feels peaceful. They're the opposite, y’all—swirling storms that steal your joy.

All I want for Christmas? For things to look the way I envision. The perfect table, the harmonious family laughs, the wrapped gifts under a twinkling tree. But let's be real: The chances are slimmer than winning that 1-billion-dollar Powerball. With that mindset, how can anything be peaceful? I need to flip the script in my head—from chasing "peace" to becoming a "peacemaker." It's not easy, but it's necessary.

People don’t like being told what to do, and respect for elders? That's flown out the window. Truth is, who’s going to change an entire generation? Me? The Avengers? God? I don’t know the answer, but I do know what I’m willing to fight for—and what I’m not. Not to mention, a lot falls on deaf ears. We’re living in insane times where 2+2 doesn’t equal 4, grown-ups are at the kids' table, and kids are running the show. Everything’s backwards and confusing. Confusion doesn’t breed peace; it’s the exact opposite—a relentless thief.

What are we to do if we liked things one way and now have to navigate different times and traditions without offending anyone? It’s hard, but as peacemakers, we keep our mouths shut, lean on trusted confidants, and pray. At least that's what I’m doing this Christmas season. I want my life peaceful and tranquil, back to the basics: a Christmas tree twinkling, carols filling the house, ridiculous movies playing every evening, and January peeking around the corner like a promise.

In all seriousness, finding peace is of the utmost importance. Can you imagine being in the times when Jesus was born? Mary and Joseph on the run from King Herod, no one offering them a room, ending up in a stable with animals. Soon after Jesus' birth, they fled to Egypt and stayed years—far from home. Herod ordered all boys under 2 killed! No peace there, fam. Yet, in that chaos, the Prince of Peace arrived.

Today, we all need to stop, take a deep breath, and recognize this season's importance: Jesus Christ, our Savior, was born. He came to bring peace, love, hope, and joy to the world.

So, here's my nudge: This weekend, instead of running around spending money, sit and enjoy friends, family, and ease. Turn off the noise—just the tree lights, a menorah glow (Hanukkah starts Sunday!), and quiet. Charlie Kirk had strict Sabbath rules—no cell phones on Sundays. Relax, enjoy your people, and soak in the peace.

Have a wonderful, magical weekend. Thanks for reading

XOXO

Bizzy

Newsletter for December 5, 2025

Waiting....

Bizzy Fam,

I remember when my kids were little, and I was so busy running from here to there and couldn’t even find time to take a shower by myself. Those days I look back at so fondly. I know every woman doesn’t have the same sentiments but I long for that time. Ironically looking back, I can see that I was too busy to feel, to change, I was always on the run and thinking back, what was I running from? Myself, my pain, my lack of self-love. In the end it doesn’t matter because from a life of running I am enjoying waiting.

This Advent season I am not only doing one Advent challenge, but 3! Yes, three and the one I am doing with Father Mike Schmitz is called “Waiting Well”.  Waiting was shunned upon in my family growing up. Your success was marked by how busy and popular you were, and that was true up until June of 2025. I ran from this to that, always having a lot of friends and lots of stuff to do and now I am quiet...no parties, no running and I am waiting.

At first, waiting felt uncomfortable, and I had to concentrate on every emotion.

But as the days passed, I noticed subtle changes in myself. The quiet moments allowed me to truly listen—to my thoughts, my feelings, and even to the gentle stirrings of hope that come with Advent. In the stillness, I discovered that waiting isn't always passive; sometimes, it's an invitation to prepare, to reflect, and to grow. Now, as I walk through December, I find myself embracing this season of anticipation. Instead of filling my days with noise, I’m learning to find peace in the pause. I’m discovering that waiting well is not about idleness but about fostering patience and gratitude.

This journey of waiting has shown me the beauty in slowing down and letting go of the need for constant activity. I’m grateful for the opportunity to reconnect with myself and with the deeper meaning of Advent. If you’re also in a season of waiting, I encourage you to lean into it—sometimes, the greatest growth happens in the moments between what was and what will be.

Enjoy the peace and quiet, I promise I don’t think you are missing much.

Have a wonderful weekend,

Sending big hugs

XO

Bizzy

How I Survive the Days Between Thanksgiving and New Year's

When I got sober almost two decades ago, they referred to this time of year as the "Bermuda Triangle." Before that, I always thought of the Bermuda Triangle as a place where you went and the potential for getting lost was high! In fact, both can be threatening to your life.

It starts with Thanksgiving and ends with New Year's. It is a time where I think we all go through a wave of emotions—often feeling alone, lost, and misunderstood.

We made it through Thanksgiving, and we are now 27 days away from Christmas. It is so important to stay emotionally balanced!

How do I do this?

I pray and meditate every morning. I try to do this for an hour, but I know a lot of you don’t have an hour—even 5 minutes is a great way to start your day. Prayer is asking God, and meditation is listening. I try to remember that God’s will is what is happening right now. At times, I think God must have a sense of humor because what is going on in the moment can be really tough! Those are the times when I must rely on my faith and trust.

Another tool I use is called the Pause App. I set my phone to remind me once in the morning and once in the afternoon to just take a minute and turn everything over to God. It is really grounding. I know that I have no power over other people, but I can ask God to take care of others. This alleviates the pressure that comes with constant worry and thoughts of the future or the past.

This time of year also brings a lot of pressure when it comes to giving. It is what the holiday is all about, but it can bring anxiety, especially when groceries and gas are at an all-time high. When I was young (I am 57 now), people always gave gifts that they made. In fact, I remember someone bringing over small pretzels that my friend had made with the most amazing spices. I still remember that over two decades later! The time and effort put into making a gift is so much more memorable than bringing a gift from TJs. So don’t stress—find something to make that is in your budget.

One last little tip on how to manage this time of the year: Get outdoors.

If you are in the North, I know that it is cold. Some days are gray, and some days it may be snowing, but getting out in whatever elements are out there will bring you joy. Getting your body moving will get your endorphins going, and it is scientifically proven that getting outdoors will change your perspective. Get outdoors even if it is hard to push yourself—do it!

Being born in the late 60s, it was taught in my home that self-care is selfish. I believe the contrary. We need to take care of ourselves if we want to be better for all of those around us. I know that if I don’t take care of me, I am a difficult person. I need to take care of the little things: prayer, meditation, pausing, and getting some form of exercise.

What is best about all these tools is that they don’t cost any money. Besides the gifts, of course—but even a large bag of pretzels can go a long way! I have included the recipe below as a little gift at the start of the real holiday season.

You made it through the first corner of the triangle—be proud of yourself! I hope you find these other tips helpful. Just think about this: before you know it, it will be January 2nd!

If you have any other tips, I would love to hear them. Also, if you have any recipes or ideas that friends could make for gifts that don’t cost a lot, please share.

Thanks for taking the time to read my newsletter. Sending big hugs!

Have a fantastic weekend.

XO Bizzy

Recipe Bizzy fam, savory pretzel fans! Let's amp up that Utz bag with Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Crunch—crispy, garlicky, cheese-dusted bites that scream game-day or snack-attack perfection. No baking needed, 10 min prep, serves 4–6. It's addictive without the sweet tooth hangover.

Ingredients (Uses ~1/2 bag Utz pretzels)

Item

Amount

Utz small pretzels

4 cups

Unsalted butter (melted)

3 tbsp

Garlic powder

1 tsp

Onion powder

½ tsp

Grated Parmesan cheese

¼ cup

Dried Italian seasoning

1 tsp

Sea salt

Pinch (to taste)

Cayenne pepper (optional, for kick)

¼ tsp

Steps

1. Melt & Mix: Microwave butter till melted (20 sec). Stir in garlic/onion powder, Italian seasoning, cayenne, and salt.

2. Toss the Crunch: In a large bowl, drizzle butter mix over pretzels. Toss till coated (hands work best—get in there!).

3. Cheese It Up: Sprinkle Parmesan evenly, toss again. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

4. Chill & Munch: Refrigerate 10 min to set the cheese. Devour or store airtight up to 3 days.

Twist It: Add everything bagel seasoning for NYC flair or ranch powder for dip vibes. Calories: ~150/serving—guilt-free crunch!

This'll have you hooked—savor it slow. What's your go-to savory snack hack?

Newsletter for November 21, 2025

This Thanksgiving, Let’s Choose Compassion (and Ditch the Frown Lines!)

Bizzy Fam,

It’s almost Thanksgiving—my absolute favorite holiday!

You may ask why, and the answer is simple: I love the food, and I love the camaraderie with family and friends. We all come together to celebrate how grateful we are. If you’ve forgotten the official meaning, Google gave me this perfect reminder: “Thanksgiving means taking a designated day out of the year to pause, gather with loved ones, and consciously express thanks for the abundance and good fortune in one's life.”

No matter what is going on in your life or the lives of your loved ones, it is a time to say thank you.

The Modern Burden of Stress

I have been thinking for a while that these are the darkest times. It may seem like they are, given the divide in our country, and the prices at the stores and pumps.

But I was reminded that our country has endured World Wars and pandemics, to name a few. During those times, we didn’t have social media or instant communication the way we have today. Back then, if you wanted to see how someone was faring, you may have to wait for a telegram, or a phone call handled by an operator. Was it easier back then? I would think not.

In fact, all these modern conveniences have not made things easier. I think they have come with even more stress and uncertainty. We are living in a world where it is easy to be negative and ungrateful.

The Freedom of Forgiveness

This Thanksgiving, I hope that you would consider how grateful you are no matter what ails you. We all have something to be happy for, even if it is simple—the ability to rest, the roof over your head, or fresh water.

Your holiday may not look like your friends’ or families’. You may be alienated from family because of something that happened in the past. Maybe this year you could think of the fond memories you have rather than the sad emotions and resentments of things you wish were different.

I read today, “You can love someone that made a mistake, you can forgive, and you can love someone just because they are a human.” I think we all come from a place of judgement rather than compassion, and I for one think we need a little more of the latter. We must realize that everyone makes mistakes, including you... why? Because we are human.

Cheers to Peace

My wish for you this Thanksgiving is peace and serenity. You probably didn’t have to work the fields or go hunt for your meal, and for that, be grateful. Maybe pick up the phone and call someone that has been on your mind and just say Happy Thanksgiving. Walking around carrying resentments and anger does absolutely nothing (but maybe leave frown lines on your face, lol). Freedom is what I am yearning for, and I want true peace and serenity.

My table will be set for two, and we will make all the fixings, no matter that it is just us, because I want to celebrate the fact that I am beyond grateful. This year has been challenging, but I am managing. The old saying, what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger, is where I am. I thought I couldn’t get any stronger, but God had other plans. God has given me the chance to really pause and consider that he has a plan, and he has loved me since the beginning. Maybe I need to take some time to love myself and let go of the transgressions of others. We are all trying our best, I believe, no matter how naive that sounds.

Cheers to you, and I hope you have a safe and blessed Thanksgiving! As my favorite Thanksgiving movie, Home for the Holidays, reminded me, we have Christmas coming just around the corner, and after all, we might as well join in the festivities and have some joy! We are all blessed that we are even alive!

Talk to you on Black Friday and until then, remember you are never alone.

XO

Bizzy

Newsletter for Friday November 7, 2025

Getting through the tough times....

When you are going though times when nothing is going your way, your job isn’t what you thought it would be, the husband you married years ago no longer makes you laugh and the kids that you raised have completely lost your phone number or they refuse to pick up the phone unless they are under severe duress! Have you ever been here? Maybe not the exact situations but you are buried in a life that you never expected!

That is the operative word, expected! Where did we get these expectations, from family, friends, the media and now I dare say social media. We all have these unmet expectations which leaves us feeling so sorry for ourselves. It is kind of pathetic if you think about it. If you were to take a helicopter view of your life, I think all those scenarios I described would have a completely different angle.

We live in a time where we can get things delivered to our homes in a matter of minutes, we have computers in our hands 24/7 and health care is available (even if we can’t afford it LOL) at our whim. All you need is the internet and you can get answers to all your problems, and we are still not satisfied.

It is time for all of us to change our perspectives.

We are weeks away from the official start of the holiday season, (Yes Home Goods and other retailers have decided it is time to have Christmas now, it is time to spend money but that is just another distraction) last I checked we are 3 weeks away from Thanksgiving and we have time! Not a lot of time but enough to take time to look at what you do have and with some rose-colored glasses and some optimism. We are all blessed beyond!

I have been watching a show on Netflix, Poldark which starts in 1783! Back then people had no running water, the medical care was abysmal, your husband would go out to war and you would never hear from him again. Not to mention you had no way to communicate with people unless you had a horse or some way to get into the town.

People must have been so lonely and today people are still lonely, and we can communicate in more ways than I want to get into in this newsletter. The point is our perspective and our expectations.

If you look at a glass half empty compared to half full you will be looking at a life where there is no happy, no gratitude and you got the short end of the stick! But let’s look at life with the glass half full! You job may not be what you thought but it gives you an opportunity to learn something new or challenge you in how to navigate difficult situations. Your husband might not be funny, but he really knows what makes you happy. He brings you your tea every evening, how blessed are you! Lastly, those kids you raised may be having the times of their lives, they are experiencing things you always hoped they would, and they are living lives that are so fulfilled!

Which angle would you like to see? It is entirely up to you!

These next couple of weeks practice being grateful, let go of your expectations and just smile! Fake it till you make it!

Make the last months of 2025 count and before you know you will be welcoming in 2026.

Have a great weekend.

XO

Bizzy

Newsletter for October 31, 2025

Halloween's Dark Side: Time to Choose Light Over Shadows?

Hey Bizzy Fam,

I used to love Halloween! Dressing up as my favorite character, trick-or-treating with friends, racing home to count candy against my siblings—it was pure magic. My kids did the same, and those memories still warm my heart. It felt innocent, fun, a harmless blast of creativity and sweets. But lately, more and more things have caught my eye about Halloween that I never even considered before, and I want to share them with you—not to judge, but to spark awareness. What you do with it? Totally up to you. No shade, just some food for thought.

What I hadn't thought about was the wickedness woven into the day. People dress as ghouls, bloody monsters, and terrifying figures—what message does that send when we bring it home? Again, I loved Halloween, and I'm not here to rain on anyone's parade. The reason I'm bringing up the darkness is simply to make you aware. The fairies and princesses? Adorable. But the gore and blood? It might invite some negative vibes we don't need. Is it demonic? I don't know, but I want you to think about it.

I'm including a link to a clip from Shawn Ryan’s podcast with Father Dan Reehil as his guest. Father Dan discusses Halloween as the devil's day, and since he's been on It’s Bizzy and I went to Medjugorje with him, I trust his insight. He's legit, y'all. I've heard this from others too—that Halloween ushers in darkness. In the video, Father Dan also shares horrifying stories, like people picking up homeless folks promising shelter, only to burn them at the stake. Watch it yourself and form your own opinion: https://youtube.com/shorts/iPRrjLDC4Ro?si=jrzdBFIENLmn33mZ.

If you're new to my story or recall it from past newsletters, when I went to Medjugorje, I was deep into yoga, thinking it was all good vibes. But there, it was brought to my attention that some yoga poses can open doors to spirits. I thought, "Ridiculous! Yoga's healthy." But God had other plans, and my skepticism got a reality check.

We went to a breathtaking church in a grotto with Mediterranean views—pure magic. Father Dan was officiating Mass, and when one of my fellow travelers went for Communion, a demonic voice took over her. It was the scariest thing I've ever witnessed. I called my husband, JF, and said, "Get rid of the yoga gear, Buddhas, crystals—everything! I don't need bad energy in our home."

We’re living in dark times, fam. The less darkness I invite in, the better. But here's the flip side: the day after Halloween is All Saints' Day, November 1st—a celebration of all saints without their own special day. Here's a quick rundown from Gemini when I asked:

All Saints' Day Quick Facts

·       Date: November 1st

·       Purpose: Honor all Christian saints, known and unknown, who've reached heaven.

·       Denominations: Mainly Roman Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, Eastern Orthodox.

·       Liturgical Rank: Solemnity in Catholicism—a Holy Day of Obligation (Mass required).

·       Vigil: Starts October 31st (Halloween/All Hallows' Eve).

·       Follow-Up: All Souls' Day (November 2nd) for praying for the departed in Purgatory.

·       Roots: 4th century, formalized by Pope Gregory IV in the 9th century.

·       Traditions: Church services, reflection; in Europe/Latin America, cemetery visits with candles and decorations.

Bring some light into your life if you're feeling the dark. You don’t have to hand out candy or host goblins at your door—it’s all up to you. I just wanted to bring this to your attention. No judgment, just awareness.

Have a fantastic weekend, fam—you're not alone!

XOXO,
Bizzy
#ItsBizzy #LiveLoudLoveBig

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Weekly Newsletter for October 17, 2025

Welcome to Your Weekly Update!

Good morning Bizzy Fam! Here’s your newsletter for Friday, October 17, 2025.

The divide between right and left feels impossible these days. Remember 1984 when Ronald Reagan won 49 of 50 states? We were all on the same team, sharing beliefs, coming together. Now, races are razor-close because we’re split—neighbors on opposite sides, views clashing, commonality hard to find. We can’t even unite in loving America. It’s breeding darkness, anger, and resentment everywhere. Do we ignore the differences or hunt for shared ground?

I’ve always been outspoken—sometimes to my detriment. I’ve lost friends and relationships I cherished. Just this week, I saw a walking buddy I haven’t spoken to since the election. She doesn’t believe what I believe, so why bother? Neither of us has tried mending; we’ve just drifted. The Bible calls us to forgive and be together—after all, we’re only here a short time, but in heaven? Forever. Why not make Earth feel like heaven?

It’s our egos, y’all. I know what I believe, and I don’t want to waste energy convincing others. I’m no Charlie Kirk—I lack his bandwidth, knowledge, and wherewithal to sway folks. So, I walk away too. But I want that to change!

We’re all allowed our beliefs, but someone’s gotta be the grown-up, concede, and let votes decide the best candidate. America’s freedoms let us speak freely, but that’s left us divided.

Watching the Israel hostages freed was emotional—human life matters, no matter what. We can’t rejoice in death; it’s wrong. Instinctually, we care. I don’t want anyone dying for beliefs, but it’s been happening forever.

My sobriety gave me clarity and growth in AA. It’s where people share stories, lift each other up, no matter your vote or spirituality—just humans helping humans with alcoholism. God’s central because we’re fallible; no human’s perfect. We let each other down, but in AA, it’s about support, not perfection.

Abstinence rates in the program are low—that’s truth. Odds of staying sober are slim, like betting on the Super Bowl. It’s human frailty: we don’t know who to believe, how to handle inadequacy, or live without numbing. We’re powerless.

Today, we all feel powerless—we can’t change beliefs, surrender, or trust God’s plan. We can’t let go. We crave relief, and I get it. I want to be proud of my beliefs without losing friends, but that’s where we are.

My advice? Pray and accept. AA’s Big Book (p. 417) says acceptance is the answer to all problems. Let’s try that this week.

Feedback & Suggestions

What do you think—how can we come together? I’d love your thoughts at elizabeth@elizabethchance.com.

Stay Connected

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 Thank you for reading!

Have a wonderful Friday and a fantastic weekend.

You’re not alone!

XOXO,
Bizzy
#ItsBizzy #LiveLoudLoveBig

Newsletter for October 10, 2025

Me this summer in Assisi, Italy

Fearful of the Unknown? I Sure Am!

Are you fearful of the unknown? I sure am!

I’m middle-aged, my children are all grown up, and now it’s finally time to figure out who I am. Honestly? It feels daunting. For so long, my primary identity was as a caretaker, and now I have to learn to care for me and figure out what I want for the rest of my life. I always put other people’s needs in front of my own, and while it’s scary, it’s also incredibly exciting to know in my heart that I have to make big changes.

Life is such a gift, even during hard times. I’ll admit I can get down and depressed—and this past summer was a tough one. I had to get to a place where I was so uncomfortable that I was forced to move my feet! It’s kind of like when I decided to get sober. I knew I was drinking too much and that the alcohol was filling a hole in my soul. After being sober for a year, I started helping others, and that is something I absolutely love. Watching someone realize what they see when they look in the mirror is just magical. God is so good!

Five years into sobriety, I became a recovery coach, which was also incredibly rewarding. Since then, I’ve also become certified as a life coach and a health and wellness coach.

With all this education and desire to help, I was still focused on raising my children and then setting them free. But once they were gone, it left a new hole in my soul. I found myself just moving through the days, waiting to feel better. The problem is, even when you’re busy with a podcast, a newsletter, and coaching clients, when all you have is time on your hands, you look at your life and think, "Is this it?" My kids are all far away, they don’t want to move back here, and I don’t want to move to where they live. That leaves me with the inevitable question: NOW WHAT?

I am putting my trust in God’s hands. Literally. I’m moving my feet, going to church, connecting with friends, walking, and exercising. I know something is going to switch inside me!

For one, I know I want to focus my coaching on the families of addicts and marriages. My faith is so big, and I want to share it with others. In my short life of 57 years, I have been through a lot, and I am still standing. I believe from the bottom of my heart that not only will my education help me help others, but the fact that I’ve walked through more scenarios than one would ever think is proof that you too can get through anything that comes your way, as long as you have faith.

If you are feeling lost, confused, and need a helping hand, please reach out. We are all on a journey; it’s not a race, and there is no one judging you but you! Most times, when we only have our own view and don’t share what’s going on with another person, we keep spinning in place. We need another set of eyes. Let me be that other set!

You are not alone, I promise you that!

Have a fantastic weekend.

Love you all.

XO Bizzy

Watch my podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@elizabethchance.

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#LiveLoudLoveBig #itsbizzy #bizzysays

Newsletter for October 3, 2025

Hard Choices: When Loving Someone Means Letting Go

Isn't it funny? You meet someone, and a voice whispers, "This is it! They were sent from God! We're going to be together forever." Then, as the seasons change, life happens. You get to know the person beyond the veneer, and you realize nothing is ever truly easy.

This week, my conversation with Holly Thornton on the podcast affected me deeply. She shared her story of being married to an active alcoholic, trying desperately to help him as his health deteriorated. They had three children together, and yet, she couldn't get him to stop drinking. I could absolutely relate.

So many people battling addiction are lost. The light is nearly impossible for them to grasp. I've known countless individuals who simply cannot muster through the pain—and pain, after all, either propels us forward or it debilitates.

Watching family members process their loved one’s addiction in the moment is incredibly difficult. I, for one, always want to fix it! This week, I was listening to Mel Robbins talk about her concept of "Let Them," and it resonated so much. When you can’t fix someone, it’s like banging your head against the wall. Our efforts, our will, and our plans often fail and can even push them further away.

Having Holly on the podcast was educational, even for me, who has been in this field for decades. She perfectly described what it’s like when your partner is in active addiction: it’s like having a crazy person in your home. The person looks like the sweet partner you knew before, but they are no longer in their body. The alcohol or drugs have taken over, and no human power can change them.

Almost two decades ago, when I started attending AA meetings, I learned that a belief in a higher power—who I call God—is where I could find peace. We can't navigate this world alone; there is simply too much distraction and confusion. Trying to change another person is like trying to get the waves to stop crashing. We have to live and let live.

I love the idea of "Let Them." While our instincts tell us to fix, the truth is that we don’t have the right tools—only God does.

Practice letting go and letting them this week, and let me know how you do!

Have a wonderful weekend,

XO

Bizzy

Puppy Training: The Unexpected Guide to a Better Life

Elliott aka Ellie

Good afternoon! Sorry this newsletter is late—I've been fully immersed in training our new puppy, Elliott (aka Ellie)!

What this whole exercise has taught me is that it takes four things: consistency, patience, praise, and discipline. And the huge reminder for me is that life requires the exact same four things.

Consistency & Discipline

I’ve grouped these two because they go hand-in-hand. Consistency in things like daily prayer, writing, and meditating brings me so much joy and takes me away from all the surrounding noise.

Discipline is simply the self-control that makes us do what we know we should do instead of defaulting to scrolling. LOL! It's the discipline to sit down in the morning and ask God to guide your day. God has a plan for you, but it takes discipline to stop, ask, and meditate to actually hear that plan. Not grabbing your phone the second you wake up? That’s discipline, too.

This Sunday, we’re implementing a phone-free weekend! The phones go off Saturday night and won’t be turned on until Monday morning. It’s a major challenge, and I’m ready for it. Are you?

Patience

Patience is a real struggle for me! We live in a world where we can order something and have it delivered almost instantly. Yet, when it comes to decisions and people, I have to wait. That’s tough. The line is really drawn when I get stuck on wanting things—and people—to be exactly my way.

Praise

It's easy to praise others, but giving ourselves a break? That's the hard part. We constantly compare ourselves to the outside—what they're wearing, what they drive, the perfect life they portray on Instagram or TikTok. Where is the internal praise? When we carry the shame and remorse from yesterday (or even five minutes ago), we’re just judging ourselves. Stop and give yourself a mental "like" or a "heart." Tell yourself: "I'm doing a good job. It may not be pretty, but I am showing up and trying."

Living in the Now

In closing, this puppy has taught me that I spend way too much time in the past or the future. I must be in the now! I have to live one minute at a time. My current job is to be present and know when Ellie needs to go out, or I’ll be on my hands and knees cleaning up a mess because I was completely checked out.

Let’s commit to staying in the moments together. I know God is in the moments and not in my past or my future—He is here now!

Have a wonderful weekend. Sending you all love and blessings.

P.S. How do you manage to stay present in your day? Share your tips with me!

XOXO

Bizzy

Newsletter for September 19, 2025

Restless…

We are living in a world with so much violence, so much hate. People sit on either side of the aisle, convinced to their core that they are right and the other side is wrong. It’s complete black-and-white thinking.

But I believe there’s a rainbow in between the black and the white—so many colors, so many beliefs, so many people who hold a little of this and a little of that. I don’t think most of us live fully in one camp. Deep down, we believe parts of what others believe, too. The hard part is humility—the ability to look at yourself not as you wish you were, but as you really are when you look in the mirror.

Back to the noise and restless feelings…

For years, I’ve grounded myself. And you might be scratching your head, thinking, What does that mean? No, I don’t dig a hole and plant myself in the yard. What I do is step outside barefoot, look up to heaven, and say, God, Your will be done. I’m out of the way. Just having my skin touch the grass or dirt is grounding. It’s soothing. Don’t believe me? Try it.

Right now, I’m willing to do anything to quiet this restlessness.

Decades ago, I heard: If you don’t know what to do, do nothing. That sounded impossible to me. My nickname is Bizzy for a reason. Sitting still meant something was wrong. Because when I stopped moving, feelings showed up—and who wants feelings? Not me. Feelings were overwhelming. Fear came like a freight train whenever I tried to sit still.

Our ancestors ran when fear showed up—when a tiger was near, they had to. And today, that same physical reaction can come just from a text message or something we see on TV. My instinct was always to run.

But now, decades later, I do something different. I sit with the fear, the uncertainty. I don’t run anymore. I’m too sick and tired of running. And deep down, I believe these feelings will not last forever. I trust that I’ll know where I’m supposed to go when my soul tells me.

When I used to run, fear controlled me—I moved simply to get away. Today, I can see the fear and know: walking toward it will be uncomfortable, but it won’t kill me. It isn’t a tiger.

So if you’re feeling restless, know this: it’s normal. You’re not broken. And this too shall pass.

Thanks for reading, and have a wonderful weekend.

XOXO,
Bizzy

Newsletter for September 12, 2025

Charlie….

Hey Bizzy Fam,

This week’s been heavy—Charlie Kirk’s tragic killing, the school shooting in Colorado, and the lingering pain of 9/11 still weigh on our hearts. 💔 I’m distraught, but I’m also fired up. Why? Because Charlie was a warrior for truth, encouraging young people to think for themselves and challenge the status quo. He wasn’t preachy—he was real, patriotic, and unashamed of his love for God and America. I didn’t know him personally, but I followed his work closely, and he opened my eyes to what’s broken in our schools. He gave kids the guts to stand up, ask questions, and fight for what’s right.

When I sent my kids to college, I had no idea how much leftist ideology had taken over. Charlie showed us the truth and inspired students to wrestle with ideas. Crowds lined up to debate him, and he welcomed it all—until a single shot at Utah Valley University took him from us. He’s with Jesus and our Blessed Mother now, but his light still burns. Whoever did this evil act didn’t win. They silenced his voice, but his legacy? We’ll carry it forward.

I’m proud to be a God-fearing, sober woman—19 years strong in recovery. I’m proud to be a MAGA supporter, to love Jesus, Mary, and America. My life’s messy, but my strength comes from faith, not perfection. In a world where weed’s legal and God’s pushed aside, I’m calling it out: enough! Life’s hard—since Adam and Eve, it’s been a struggle. If you’re numbing out, I’m praying for you. Gratitude and faith get us through, like I shared in episode 571 about being powerless over change. Watch it: https://www.youtube.com/@elizabethchance.

The Colorado school shooting at Evergreen High School, where a student took their own life after injuring two classmates, breaks my heart . It’s another reminder of our broken systems. And 9/11, 24 years later, still stings—yet it calls us to stand stronger. Let’s honor Charlie by living like he did: smile at your neighbor, even if they don’t smile back. Forgive those who hurt you, even when it’s tough. Don’t let these tragedies make you hopeless—let them make you proud. Fly your American flag, your MAGA flag, and stand tall in your faith.

Try this: write down one way you’ll carry Charlie’s legacy—maybe it’s speaking up or loving louder. Share it with me at elizabeth@elizabethchance.com.

Let’s keep pushing for change, Bizzy fam—together, we’re unstoppable.

Connect with Bizzy:
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Sending big hugs and love,
Bizzy ❤️
#LiveLoudLoveBig #itsbizzy #bizzysays

Newsletter for September 5, 2025

From Penelope’s Loss to a New Pup: Change Is Our Teacher

Hey Bizzy Fam,

It’s been just over a week since I lost my Penelope, my heart and shadow for nearly 15 years. 🐾 I still see her bowls, her toys, that click of her paws—and my 5-year-old Cavapoo, Lele, is lost without her sister. So, call me crazy, but today we’re bringing home a new puppy! Some might say, “Whoa, that’s fast,” but I’ve always loved having two dogs, and my heart’s ready to grow again.

How long should you grieve? There’s no rulebook, fam. In episode 570, Becky Shippos and I dive into change—messy, beautiful, and real. Losing Penelope gutted me, but my 19 years in recovery taught me we all grieve differently. Some days I cry, others I laugh at her memory. We’re not robots; we’re humans, and that’s the beauty of it. Instead of judging someone’s process, let’s love and respect their journey. Be kind to yourself—take the time you need, no more, no less.

This new pup? I’m nervous! It’s been five years since we had a puppy tearing through the house, chewing shoes, and waking us up at dawn. I’m out here buying collars, bowls, food, and booking vet appointments to make sure our little girl’s healthy and vaccinated. Intimidating? Heck yes! But I’m reminding myself: she’s gonna chew, and that’s okay. Patience is the name of the game, just like navigating change.

September’s all about change on It’s Bizzy. In episode 569, I talked about embracing it, whether it’s a choice (like getting this pup) or something that just happens, like kids going back to school. Change is life’s constant—you can’t dodge it, so why not see it as a chance to grow? Sometimes it’s messy, sometimes it’s like dancing through without missing a beat. Either way, you’re not alone. I’m rereading A Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren, and it’s hitting home: God made us perfectly, with a purpose that might hide but never fades. Give yourself grace, love yourself, and lean into courage to hear God’s dreams for you. Want to chat about finding yours? Hit me up at elizabeth@elizabethchance.com.

So, picture me with sleepless nights, puppy chaos, and a heart full of hope. Wherever you are in your grief—whether it’s a pet, a person, or a chapter—embrace how you feel. There’s no right or wrong, and comparing yourself to others steals your joy. Try this: write down one thing you’re letting go of (for me, it’s Penelope’s empty bed) and one thing you’re embracing (puppy cuddles!). Share it with me—I’d love to hear.

Check out episode 570 for more on finding joy in change: https://www.youtube.com/@elizabethchance. You’re never alone, Bizzy fam—let’s keep loving big!

Connect with Bizzy:
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💙 Facebook: facebook.com/itsbizzypodcast
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Sending big hugs,
Bizzy
#LiveLoudLoveBig

Newsletter for August 29, 2025

Goodbye, My Sweet Girl 💔

Yesterday, I said goodbye to my best friend of almost 15 years. She wasn’t just a dog—she was family, my constant companion, my shadow. She loved me with that pure, unconditional love that only a dog can give.

Today, the house feels empty. I keep looking for her bowls, her toys, her favorite bones tucked in little corners of the house. I still expect to hear the click of her paws on the floor or feel her presence next to me. Grief sneaks in through all of those missing pieces.

Losing a pet is a pain that so many of us go through, and yet it never feels any easier when it’s our turn. Our pets don’t live as long as we do, and that truth hurts. But what a gift it is to love and be loved by them for the time we do have.

My heart aches, and yet, I also feel gratitude—for the walks, the cuddles, the joy she brought into my life every single day. I know my little cavapoo Lele feels it too; she’s lost her companion. That’s why I find myself thinking about welcoming another pup one day, not to replace my sweet girl, but to honor her by keeping that circle of love going.

Loss is terrible. It shakes us, breaks us, and leaves holes in our days. But how do we grieve and still carry on? Maybe the truth is—we don’t get a choice. We grieve and we carry on. Slowly, tenderly, with tears and with memories.

If you’re grieving today—whether it’s a pet, a person, or a part of your life you’ve had to let go—know that you’re not alone. The love we shared is never wasted, and in some mysterious way, it carries us forward.

With love,
Bizzy

Newsletter for August 22, 2025

Why One Try Isn’t Always Enough

Hey Bizzy Fam!

Have you ever had one of those moments where something nudges your heart, and you realize later it wasn’t just coincidence—it was a God wink?

For me, one of those moments was with Al-Anon. At first, I didn’t think it was for me. I went to a meeting, and honestly, it felt just… okay. Nothing clicked. Part of me thought, well, maybe this isn’t it.

But something in me (and I believe it was God) nudged me to keep going. I gave it another try. And another. By the sixth meeting, something shifted. I got into the groove. I started hearing the message in a new way. I realized that God was speaking to me through those rooms, through the people, through the stories.

That experience taught me a powerful lesson: we can’t always expect the first time to feel perfect. Whether it’s a meeting, a prayer practice, a new habit, or even a friendship, sometimes it takes time to settle in. Sometimes God winks through consistency, not instant clarity.

And this is true in life, too. Growth and healing rarely come in one big moment—they come from showing up again and again, even when it feels awkward or uncertain. That’s where the transformation happens.

So, if you’ve tried something once and thought, “meh, not for me”—I encourage you to pause and ask: Is God nudging me to give this another chance?

✨ Have you had a God wink lately—a moment where persistence opened a new door for you? I’d love to hear your story. Just hit reply.

Have a fantastic weekend and thanks for being you.

Reach out with any comments or questions to elizabeth@elizabethchance.com.

With love and faith,
Bizzy

#itsbizzy #bizzysays #LiveLoudLoveBig