american_flag.jpg

A Message for Christmas and the New Year

Greetings,

 

During this Christmas season, and as the year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the privilege of serving the 9th District in the Virginia Senate. This past year marked my first full year of service, having been sworn in after session started during the 2024 General Assembly. From the very beginning, I approached this responsibility with humility, prayer, and a deep sense of calling to serve the people of our district faithfully.

 

Public service is both an honor and a responsibility. This year brought moments of challenge and moments of great encouragement, but through it all, I have been reminded that leadership is not about position or recognition — it is about listening, showing up, and doing what is right, even when it is difficult. My faith has been a steady guide, reminding me daily that service should be rooted in compassion, integrity, and love for others.

 In a world where the things happening around us can feel huge and overwhelming, it is easy to become discouraged by the constant stream of troubling news. But Christmas reminds us that while we may not be able to fix everything at once, each of us can do our part — faithfully and consistently — right where we are.

 

Sometimes that looks like something simple but powerful: adopting a family in need and helping them get back on their feet, mentoring someone as they develop the skills they need to be successful in the future, volunteering with a local nonprofit that could use an extra set of hands, or even starting a small group of like-minded people to fulfill a mission you feel deeply passionate about. These acts may seem small in the face of the world’s challenges, but they are life-changing to the people they touch.



We may not be able to tackle every big, overwhelming issue that confronts us each time we turn on the news, but every one of us has the ability to make a difference in someone’s life every single day. Those moments of service, kindness, and encouragement are where real hope takes root.

 

I am also incredibly grateful for all of my constituents who continue to show patience and understanding as I juggle the many roles God has entrusted to me — serving as a legislator, working full-time as a Realtor, and being a wife, mother, and grandmother to now seven grandchildren. This year, our family was blessed to welcome a brand-new grandson in November, and that joy has been a beautiful reminder of what truly matters. I am especially thankful for those who have supported my nonprofit, The Windsong Foundation, which serves and supports victims of domestic abuse. Finding balance in all of this has certainly been a challenge, but it is also a reminder of just how truly blessed I am.



I am profoundly grateful for the people of the 9th District — for your prayers, your encouragement, and your willingness to engage thoughtfully and respectfully, even when we may not always agree. Your support has strengthened me more than you know and reaffirmed why this work matters. It is a blessing to serve a community that values family, faith, and caring for one another.

 

Throughout the year, I have witnessed quiet acts of kindness across our district — neighbors helping neighbors, churches and community organizations stepping in to meet needs, and families choosing generosity in times of uncertainty. These moments may never make headlines, but they reflect the true heart of who we are.

 

As we celebrate the birth of Christ this Christmas, we are reminded of the greatest gift ever given — love, freely and sacrificially offered. It is my prayer that this season brings peace to your home, comfort to those who are struggling, and renewed hope for the year ahead.

 

Looking forward, I remain committed to serving with integrity, listening with an open heart, and working diligently on behalf of the families, businesses, and communities of the 9th District. I ask for your continued prayers as I seek wisdom and discernment in the year to come.

 

May God bless you and your family this Christmas season, and may the New Year bring health, joy, and continued hope.

 

As always, my staff and I are here to assist you with any issues or concerns. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if we can be of service. You can reach us at 434.374.5129 or by email at

[email protected] 

Applications Now Open for the Virginia Rural Leadership Institute (VRLI)!


VRLI is a groundbreaking initiative by the Virginia Rural Center, and it is the only program in the Commonwealth dedicated to retaining and attracting rural Virginians. VRLI fosters the development of innovative, responsible, and civic-minded leaders who can strengthen regional communities. Applications are due by February 13th. For more details, visit cfrv.org/vrli


Through four comprehensive sessions, VRLI Cohort Members will gain essential leadership and economic development skills, empowering them to drive long-term economic growth in their communities and regions. The program also promotes enhanced cooperation, collaboration, and coordination across a diverse range of organizations and sectors. Interested individuals can apply directly through this link, and if you know someone who would be a great fit, you can refer them here!


For any questions, feel free to contact the Virginia Rural Center team at [email protected].


P.O. Box 145,

Clarksville, VA 23927

(434) 374 5129

X Share This Email
LinkedIn Share This Email