Hello and welcome to Drift Off. I'm your host, Joanne. Thank you so much for being here with me.

As we approach the special time of year, I wanted to share a Christmas story that's close to my heart, a sweet and tender tale called Little Picula. It's a story about a little girl and the magic of Christmas, and I hope it brings you comfort and warmth this holiday season.

I also wanted to take a moment to thank you for your ongoing support and patience and kindness

over these past few weeks. As some of you may know, my family has been going through a difficult time.

My daughter, Emily, was recently diagnosed with cancer and has started chemotherapy.

It's been an emotional and overwhelming journey, and I've had to cut back on my podcast workload

to focus on what feels manageable right now. By shifting my focus to my subscribers and simplifying my

schedule, I've been able to find a bit more balance. This adjustment has been an important way to

prioritize my family and my own well-being, and I'm so grateful to all of you for your understanding and support.

I know my listeners and viewers will still be here when I'm ready to fully return, and that

thought brings me so much comfort and hope. I want to extend my warmest wishes to you and your

loved ones this holiday season. Whether you're celebrating

or simply enjoying the peace this time of year can bring, I hope it's filled with joy, comfort,

and the company of those who mean the most to you. Thank you for being a part of this wonderful

community.

I'm truly grateful for you. Now, let's take a moment to relax and settle in.

Find a comfortable position and allow yourself to relax.

If you're lying in bed, allow your head to rest on your pillow and let your body begin to feel heavy and at ease.

Let's take a deep breath in together and gently exhale.

And again, a nice deep breath in and let it out slowly.

Imagine the peaceful stillness of a winter's night.

Picture yourself wrapped in a cozy blanket by the soft glow of twinkling lights.

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