The end of January and the early weeks of February were rough here at Where the Dogwood Blooms—one hit after another, a string of letdowns and heartbreaks.

In just a few short weeks, I found out I lost WRAL’s Voter’s Choice Awards, the pilot I filmed back in October wasn’t picked up, and, worst of all, we lost our sweet cat, Binx.

Daddy would’ve said I was all tore up about it—and he’d be right.

That was one of his favorite sayings, and for good reason. It means to be emotional or distraught. Daddy lived hard and weathered his share of tough times. I saw him all tore up more than once myself.

He would’ve understood. And he would’ve been proud of the way I handled it. Through it all, I held my head up. I didn’t break down. I didn’t slip into a dark depression. And most importantly, I didn’t give up. I’m still here, doing what I do best—celebrating North Carolina.

Even better? I wiped my tears and went looking for the silver linings.

I may not have won the WRAL Voter’s Choice Awards—but I was nominated. And I didn’t come in last!

The pilot may not have been picked up—but I’m part of the 1% who even gets the chance to film one. And it’s not over yet—I’m still in talks with Cucklebur, so who knows what the future holds?

As for Binx, I’m not over losing my sweet boy. None of us are. The house feels different without him, and we’re all still grieving. But I can say this—his joy, his love, and the light he brought into our lives far outweigh the pain of losing him.

And that? That’s what I choose to hold on to.