Newsletter for March 28, 2025

Patience: A Virtue Worth Embracing

Do you have patience? Do you trust in the process?

They say patience is a virtue... but what does that really mean?

I asked ChatGPT (yes, I did!) and here’s what it had to say:

“Patience is considered a virtue because it reflects inner strength, self-control, and the ability to remain calm and composed in the face of difficulty, delay, or provocation.”

Here are a few reasons why patience is so powerful:

1. It builds character.
   It teaches us to pause, reflect, and respond—rather than react.

2. It leads to better decision-making.
   Patience gives us clarity and keeps us from making impulsive choices we might regret.

3. It strengthens relationships.
   With patience, we allow space for growth, grace, and understanding.

4. It deepens our trust in the process.
   Good things take time—healing, growth, love, sobriety.

5. It brings peace.
   A patient heart is a peaceful heart.

You could say patience is like a muscle—the more we use it, the stronger it gets. And in a world, that’s constantly pushing for instant results, choosing patience is a quiet act of rebellion… in the best way.

Now, I wouldn’t be writing about patience if I hadn’t just learned a lesson myself.

For nearly a year, I’ve wanted to start a meeting here in Delray. I reached out to my local church, met with the priest, called (and called and called) the person in charge of scheduling the property. Honestly, I think they got tired of hearing from me! Then one day… silence. Someone promised to call me back, and they never did. I was disappointed. But instead of pushing harder, I let go. I told myself, “If it’s meant to be, it’ll be.”

See, when I started a meeting in Wayne, PA, it was easy—like, really easy. A dear friend with a senior role at the church gave me the green light without hesitation. I think part of me expected the same ease here… but that’s not always how it works.

Fast forward to today—I picked up the phone one more time, called the church… and the manager said, “Elizabeth, we have a space for your meeting!” I was (and still am) over the moon!

This isn’t just about me. It’s about our community. It’s about providing more options, more support, more places to feel safe and seen. Because what works for one person might not work for another—and that’s okay.

So here’s what I’m holding onto:
Never give up.
Have patience.
Trust that if something is meant for you, it will come.
And if one door doesn’t open, don’t fret—another one will.

Have a beautiful weekend.

With love,
XO,
Bizzy

Newsletter for March 21, 2025

miami open

Time Is So Fleeting

Do you ever stop to think about how much time you waste? I never really did—until someone pointed it out to me the other day. Time feels endless when we’re young, but before we know it, we’re past the halfway mark of the average human lifespan. At 56, I’m there now. Sure, I could live to 100, but 112? Only God knows the plan.

How many times have you made plans with someone, only to show up late—or worse, not show up at all—thinking it doesn’t really matter? Well, let me tell you, it does. That person who was waiting for you just lost time they’ll never get back. And let’s be real—there’s no time machine (except maybe the one on a Mac computer).

Why do we all take time for granted? I wasted so much of mine in blackouts or mindlessly scrolling Instagram—what an utter waste! The other day, I was at the Miami Open, and I noticed two people walking out of the stadium glued to their phones. My friend turned to me and said, “They’re impaired.” At first, I thought, What are you talking about? They look fine to me. Then he added, “They’re in another place.” And you know what? He was right. They were so absorbed in their screens that they were completely disconnected from their surroundings. They had no clue they were holding up the long line behind them. Their bodies were there, but their minds were somewhere else—an alternate reality.

How much time do you waste on that little handheld computer?

Lately, I’ve been paying attention to how I use my time, because the truth is—we don’t know when our last day will come. Whether we die suddenly or get sick, when that moment arrives, we’ll all wish for more time.

I’m not trying to bring you down, but this realization hit me hard this week—God was sending me a message. Life is meant to be lived, not wasted!

I almost went to the Miami Open alone this week, but at the last minute, a friend—who had never been to a tennis match in his life—asked to join. He’s in his 70s, and we had a marvelous time. If I had stuck to my original plan, I would have missed out on that experience.

And then, just hours later, I was in a meeting where the topic was—of all things—time. A friend of mine was talking about how great life was going and how excited they were for the weekend ahead. They had so many plans, so many choices. And then, just like that, their world was turned upside down. Everything changed in an instant.

Life can shift on a dime. Please, don’t take it for granted. Enjoy each day. Some days are hard, but if today were your last, how would you want to spend it?

Love. Laugh. Be grateful. And always remember to pray—God is listening.

Sending you all big hugs and love,

XOXO,
Bizzy

Newsletter March 14, 2025

Discovering St. Jude and Finding True Peace

This morning, I was listening to a prayer to St. Jude. Now, I’ve always known St. Jude as a children’s hospital for very ill kids, but I never really knew who St. Jude was. Turns out, he was one of Jesus’s apostles and is known as the Patron Saint of lost causes and desperate situations! How did I not know this? I could have been praying to him for years because let’s be real—I’ve felt lost and desperate more times than I can count.

During this holy season, I am learning. Listen to that—I am learning! For so many years, I ran from learning, from stillness, from facing myself. I picked up things—booze, shopping, distractions—to soothe, to escape. It never once occurred to me to pick up a book or start praying.

Yesterday morning’s Lent Pray 40 on Hallow featured Shayne Smith’s journey to becoming Catholic and how he found God. It was an incredible story, and what blows my mind is that five years ago, I wouldn’t have even thought to download a religious app. Sure, I did yoga and meditations that weren’t explicitly religious but were “spiritual.” But what does that even mean? Spiritual?

So, I did what I always do when I want an answer—I looked it up. Here’s what I found:

Religion:

• Organized System

• Community Oriented

• Defined Teachings

• Moral Code

• Faith in a Higher Power—God

Spirituality:

• Personal and Individual

• Flexible and Open-minded

• Inner Experience

• No Fixed Doctrine—you pick…

• Connection to the World, Nature, God, or Your Higher Power

You can be both spiritual and religious. I tried that route, but something always felt unsettled, like I was still searching for something I couldn’t quite grasp. I took yoga, got certified as an instructor, went to sound bowl healings—nothing gave me what I was looking for.

It wasn’t until I started praying every morning and asking God for guidance that I finally found what I had been longing for—true love of God and trust that He is in charge. That I am not in control, and that’s okay. I’ve had to learn to live in the day because that’s where true peace and serenity exist—in the moments.

Recently, I had lunch with someone who has no religion and actually thinks religion is terrible. They believe it’s made up, the cause of wars, just another way to control people. And look, they have every right to believe that. But as I sat there listening, I couldn’t help but feel sad. At the end of life, what will she have? A belief that she was in control? I don’t think any of us are truly in control of anything.

That’s where St. Jude comes back in. If he’s the patron saint of the impossible, then I can pray for my friend. Not to change her—because that’s not my place—but to pray that she experiences a change in her heart before her time is up. And let’s be clear, I want change too. I want to humbly ask for St. Jude’s help in the situations that feel impossible in my life.

Because at the end of the day, it’s all about hope and love.

And I want more love in my life. Not just romantic love—but real human connection.

So, I’m sending you all my love and prayers.

XO,
Bizzy

Newsletter for March 7, 2025

37 Days

We have 37 days until Easter! Time is flying by. I don’t know if you went to an Ash Wednesday service this week, but I did, and for some reason, this year, it affected me more than it has in years past. The service was beautiful and tranquil at the same time. Let’s all face it—Lent is a deeply reflective time when you truly think about what this season means.

It isn’t about a rabbit, eggs, and going on Spring Break! It’s about Jesus and what He endured in the first century, likely in AD 30 or AD 33—scholars debate the exact year. Jesus was arrested, tried, and sentenced to be crucified. He carried His cross through Jerusalem and was nailed to it at Calvary (Golgotha), where He died for us.

Here we are in 2025, and I believe Easter is a season of reflection and gratitude. We should all feel deep gratitude to Jesus and to God for the gift of life, remembering the immense sacrifice Jesus made so that we could live today.

I think most of us are realizing that material things alone don’t bring true happiness. What we need—what we crave—is a relationship with God, a prayer life, something deeper in our journey here on Earth. Studies have shown that people with faith tend to lead more peaceful lives. Faith doesn’t erase struggles, but it gives us strength, perspective, and hope.

When Father Tim placed ashes on my forehead, I felt an overwhelming wave of love, gratitude, and honor. I love being a Christian. I love that God is at the center of my life. Prayer, for me, is like oxygen—I couldn’t imagine my life without it. Every morning before my feet hit the ground, I listen to at least 10 minutes of Hallow and pray. On the days I don’t pray, my entire day feels off… I’ll find myself wondering what’s missing, and then I realize—I didn’t pray!

When I was young, Lent was all about giving something up, making a sacrifice. And while that’s still valuable, I’ve learned that Lent is also about adding something good to your life. Maybe it’s dancing in your kitchen, signing up for Hallow’s 90-day free trial, smiling more, holding the door open for a stranger, or simply taking a moment each day to thank God.

Life is so precious. I know I take it for granted sometimes, but I don’t want to wait for a crisis—an illness, bad news, or heartbreak—to seek God. I want to turn to Him every day, just because I’m alive, just because He gave me another breath.

Wishing you a wonderful weekend.

XO,
Bizzy

Newsletter for Friday February 28, 2025

"Own Your Voice: Speak Your Truth Unapologetically"

Since when did having an opinion become offensive? I remember a time when people could disagree, and it wasn’t the end of the world. You believed what you believed, I believed what I believed, and if we didn’t see eye to eye—oh well, life moved on!

But today? It’s all about not offending anyone. Every word is scrutinized. God, forbid you express a thought that challenges the status quo!

Are we all supposed to be robots?
Do we have to think the same?
Are we living in some kind of ideological commune where original thought is banned?

I’ve always been someone with a voice and strong opinions. When I was younger, I was shushed for being too transparent. So, I drank—drowning my truth because I was ashamed of feeling too much, of not fitting the mold. I wasn’t allowed to express sadness or frustration, and that suppression was exhausting.

But today? Today, I feel blessed to be able to:

✅ Know who I am.
✅ Stand firm in my beliefs.
✅ Speak my truth without shame.
✅ Live authentically.
✅ Love big—but never be a pushover.
✅ Use the brain God gave me—because I refuse to be silenced.

Now, don’t get me wrong—I never want to hurt anyone. But I do believe that we’re all entitled to our opinions. I find different perspectives fascinating, even if I don’t agree with them. God made us uniquely, gifting us with the ability to think, reason, and form our own convictions.

So if my beliefs make someone uncomfortable, that’s not my problem.

I once heard Ben Shapiro say, "Never apologize for speaking your truth." And I couldn’t agree more.

Through my podcast, newsletter, and website, I have a platform to speak my truth—one that I will never take for granted. We live in the United States of America, a country built on free speech, and in recent years, we came dangerously close to losing that right. That’s why President Donald J. Trump was elected—because he speaks the truth, unfiltered and transparent. And whether you like him or not, you know where he stands. If you don’t like it, that’s okay! There are plenty of other places on this planet where the government will gladly control what you say, think, and do.

But not here. Not in America.

So, my hope for you is this: Embrace who you are. Own your voice. Stop worrying about whether everyone likes you. Be you—fully, unapologetically, and without fear. Because there’s only one you, and that’s exactly how God made you.

And with Ash Wednesday marking the start of Lent, maybe these next 40 days can be a challenge:
Be 100% yourself. Speak your truth. Live boldly, knowing that you are already perfectly made in God’s image.

Wishing you a stupendous weekend!

Love,
Bizzy

Newsletter for Friday, February 21, 2025

Me, Jf and Julia

The Party is Over… But Was It Ever Fun!

Do you ever put so much effort into planning a party that the next day you wake up thinking, Wait… that’s it? It’s over?! That’s exactly how I’m feeling after hosting a big engagement party for my son and his fiancée this past weekend.

I wanted everything to be perfecto! Every detail, from the food to the drinks to the little surprises, had to be just right. And of course, I wanted all my guests to feel comfortable—whether they drink or not. So, I went on a mission.

Now, as you all know, I don’t keep alcohol in my house. Not because I’m tempted (thank goodness!), but because I protect my sobriety like it’s my full-time job. That’s why JF and I still go to meetings after 18+ years. We’ve heard it too many times—people who relapse often say it started when they stopped going to meetings. And trust me, I have zero interest in going back to that drinking life.

But I also wanted my guests who do drink to feel welcome and have a great time. So, how do you throw a party with a fully stocked bar without physically buying alcohol or dealing with leftover bottles staring at you the next morning? Enter: the genius solution!

A catering concierge here in South Florida recommended a bartender who brings everything—booze, mixers, garnishes, even the bar itself. And the best part? He takes it all away at the end of the night! Poof! No stress, no mess, no awkward leftover liquor cabinet situation. It was seamless, and everyone had an amazing time.

The food? Delicious. The cake? Divine. The games? Exactly what the couple wanted to kick off the excitement for their 2026 wedding. Mission accomplished!

But let me tell you, after all that planning and running around, I was wrecked. I mean, completely wiped out. I used to throw parties all the time when I was married the first time, but let’s be real—I was way younger then. Now? I’m 56, and sometimes I forget that!

Here’s what I won’t forget next time:
✅ Schedule some downtime afterward.
✅ Prioritize sleep, healthy food, and self-care.
✅ Trust that it will all come together the way it’s meant to.

Because at the end of the day, we can put our hearts into making these moments special, but if we’re running on empty, we can’t fully enjoy them. And what’s the point of a party if you don’t get to have fun too?

Oh, and thank goodness I hired a photographer. I wanted to be in the moment, not running around with my phone trying to capture every memory. Highly recommend!

So, the next time you’re throwing an event—whether it’s a big party or just a small gathering—remember to take care of you too. Plan, prep, and then let go and trust that it will all unfold as it should.

Wishing you a weekend filled with rest, relaxation, and zero party clean-up.

XO,
Bizzy

Newsletter for February 14, 2025

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Did you catch Wednesday’s podcast? It was all about me celebrating 56 Valentine’s Days! Go give it a listen—trust me, I did my homework. I discovered that St. Valentine was actually an advocate for marriage and even went to jail for it! Not the most romantic start to this holiday, right? But here we are, many decades later, celebrating what’s supposed to be a fun and lighthearted day. I think it’s great for little kids, but for the rest of us, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. You either have to scramble to buy a gift or cards for someone special, or it can be a reminder that you don’t have that “special person” in your life, which can feel a little lonely.

I have a new idea, though! Let’s make Valentine’s Day all about love—but not just romantic love. Let’s celebrate love for our neighbors, our communities, our families, our pets, our coworkers, and even our country! I know the 4th of July is already for celebrating America, but if we’re lucky enough to live in the USA, why not celebrate being American twice a year? It’s worth considering, don’t you think?

On a different note—what has Donald Trump done during his time in office? It’s honestly been insane how much he’s delivered on his promises! When has that ever happened in politics, right? But that’s enough of that—let’s keep it light!

I just want to take a moment to remind you that you are loved. God has loved us since we were conceived, even when we forget that truth. I know I’ve been guilty of that. The Blessed Mother and Jesus have always loved us and always will. That’s sometimes hard to fully accept, but it’s absolutely true. Personally, I’ve had my moments where I felt unlovable, alone, or like no one cared—but those were just lies I was telling myself. Since my trip to Medjugorje, my heart has been overflowing with a renewed love for Mary and God. Every morning, I ask them to guide my thoughts and words. The freedom I’ve found in that has been incredible. I trust, with my whole heart, that I’m never alone, and they’re with me every step I take.

Remember, prayers are never unanswered—they just don’t always come in the ways or timing we expect. We need to relax, let go, and let love flow in.

Try imagining yourself in a canoe. You’re sitting at the front, and God is behind you, steering the boat. All you have to do is paddle. It sounds tricky, but it’s a gentle reminder that we’re not in charge—God is. This mental image has helped me so much, and I plan to keep it in my heart for the rest of my life.

So, on this Valentine’s Day, I want you to know that God and Mary love you. You are never alone, no matter what that little voice in your head may try to tell you.

Have an amazing day! And you know what else? I love you, too. 💖

XO,
Bizzy

Newsletter for Friday February 7, 2025

Community and Team Spirit

Happy Friday, everyone!

The Philadelphia Eagles are back in the Super Bowl, facing off against the Kansas City, Chiefs! This time they’re playing in New Orleans and let me tell you—the Eagles are going to win! I can feel it! If you’re into betting, the odds as of right now (Feb 6th at noon) give the Chiefs a 54% chance of winning and the Eagles 46%. But come on, we got this! LOL.

Now, I’m not going to pretend I’m the most die-hard, all-knowing fan. I’m not a fair-weather fan either—I guess you could say I’m happily somewhere in between.

What I really love, though, is the sheer passion that sports ignite—especially in Philly! Eagles fans, Redskins fans (that’s what they were called when I lived in DC back in the late 80s and early 90s), and Cardinals fans before they moved to Arizona all have one big thing in common—they love their teams. It’s like a whole city comes together as one, cheering for the home team. Nothing else matters in that moment—just that shared pride.

This weekend, it’s Philly’s time to shine! I’ve been watching from afar as everyone gets hyped for the big game. From decked-out Eagles gear to themed cookies and even drones flying overhead—Eagles spirit is everywhere. It’s all about that win!

It kind of reminds me of how passionate European cities get about soccer (or football, as they say over there). Have you ever seen those wild crowds on TV or in shows like Ted Lasso? When the finals roll around, cities go all out, and everyone shows up to support their team.

There’s something so beautiful about how sports bring people together. It doesn’t matter how you voted or what you believe—what matters is that you’re proudly sporting your team’s colors and sharing the excitement.

Here’s a fun fact: 124 million people watched the Super Bowl last year, compared to just 67 million who tuned in for the Presidential debate. Isn’t that wild? I guess for a lot of people, the Super Bowl feels way more important. After all, most folks already know which way they’ll vote, so why bother with the debates? LOL.

But this weekend isn’t about politics—it’s about sportsmanship, epic commercials, chicken wings, chips, and dip. Whether you’re a superfan or just there for the snacks, it’s all about having fun and being part of something bigger.

If you’re sober, remember to bring your favorite non-alcoholic drink to the party or make sure your fridge is stocked up. Trust me—you’ll thank yourself later!

Stay safe, have fun, and Fly Eagles Fly!

XO,
Bizzy

Newsletter for January 31, 2025

It’s all your fault LOL

Blame Game...

I’m heartbroken for everyone affected by the tragic crash on Wednesday night in Washington, D.C. It’s just devastating—something that shouldn’t have happened. But let’s be honest—how many accidents in life could have been avoided? Even slipping on black ice in your own driveway can be prevented if you take a moment to scatter rock salt or tread carefully. Hindsight is always 20/20.

Every accident in life has the potential to be avoided. That’s a fact. But what really grinds my gears is the endless finger-pointing that follows. As soon as tragedy strikes, the news cycle turns into a circus of blame—politicians speculating, experts analyzing, people searching for a single reason to explain everything.

Now some folks are saying that diversity hiring practices (DEI initiatives) might have somehow contributed to this crash. Seriously? That’s quite a stretch, even for politics. You all know I love our President, but at what point do we just stop the nonsense? I’m so tired of the he-said-she-said drama from both sides of the aisle.

Wouldn’t it be hilarious if we had a "time-out room" for politicians? Imagine senators and congressmen being sent to sit quietly and reflect whenever they act out, lie, or just behave like jerks. I’d pay to see that.

Money Talks (and Sometimes It Lies)

I’ll be real with you—I love spending money. Making it? Not so much! Writing and producing podcasts? Now that brings me joy. Sure, I’d love for this podcast to support itself and even make me rich someday. But here’s the thing—will I stay true to myself if that day ever comes? Will I chase dollars at the cost of authenticity? I sure hope not.

Money makes people do wild, unethical things. It’s human nature—we fear we won’t get what we want or that we’ll lose what we have. But here’s the kicker: nothing stays the same. Life is unpredictable, and none of us know when the next "accident" will happen. That’s where faith comes in.

God’s Got This

I believe God has a plan—He knows when we’re born and when we’ll take our last breath. Sure, we can eat well, exercise, and drink more water, but at the end of the day, we’re not in control. Companies may sell you on products promising longer, healthier lives, and hey, maybe some of that stuff works—but it doesn’t really matter.

What does matter is how we treat each other. If we all acted like today was our last day, imagine how much kinder, more patient, and loving we’d be. Life would be a whole lot more pleasant, wouldn’t it?

Accidents will happen—they always do. My hope is that when life throws me a curveball, I can manage through it with faith and trust that God’s got a plan.

Enjoy your weekend, and I hope you find time for some fun. Stay safe, stay kind, and maybe spread a little joy along the way.

Love,
Bizzy

Newsletter for January 24, 2025

Choose Light Over Dark!

Did you know that when painting, the first thing you focus on is the dark spaces? That’s right! When I took a painting class last year, our instructor taught us how shadows define the light. The light shines brightest when it’s contrasted with the dark—cool, right?

Take the ocean, for example. Even though it seems light and airy, there are shadows everywhere. Not black shadows, but deep blues that bring the waves to life. The same applies to life: darkness is inevitable, but it doesn’t have to define us.

So, here’s a question—when you notice darkness in your life, do you move toward it or away from it? Something to ponder!

For me, I know I’m off when I’m feeling blah or not my usual optimistic self. Gray skies or a gloomy environment can really drag me down, which is why I planted myself here in sunny Florida! ☀️ Seasonal blues are no joke, and the lack of sunshine can hit hard.

And honestly, I’m super sensitive to “dark” stuff in every sense. Violent TV shows? Hard pass. Creepy movies? Nope! JF might roll his eyes, but I’ll take Frank Sinatra or Kenny Chesney over dark, brooding music any day! You’ll usually find me jamming to happy tunes about beaches, love, and fun times with friends.

Here’s my truth:

I can’t handle dark energy, so I don’t invite it in. Period. Life’s too short for that, and I’m all about filling my world with light.

The thing is, we all have stuff going on—things that can drag us down if we let them. But here’s the kicker: most of that stuff is out of our control. Sitting around and replaying the same negative tapes in our heads? That’s like swirling down a toilet bowl—and trust me, it’s dark down there!

Instead, I’ve learned to focus on what does bring light into my life. It’s a daily practice—like working out for your soul. Move a muscle, change a mindset. It’s made all the difference for me, and it can for you too.

So, what makes you feel lighter? Is it a walk on the beach, laughing with friends, or cranking up your favorite feel-good playlist? Whatever it is, lean into it. Life’s too precious to waste in the shadows.

I’d love to hear what brightens your world—shoot me a reply and let me know!

Wishing you a weekend filled with love, light, and laughter.

Sending all the sunshine your way!

XO,

Bizzy

Newsletter January 17, 2025

Social Media: A Love-Hate Relationship

Hey friends,

Social media—it’s everywhere. Facebook, Instagram, TikTok (which I don’t even use)—they’re practically life’s new necessities. Twenty years ago, who would’ve thought we’d be glued to a tiny screen, spying on people we haven’t seen in decades? Yet here we are. Do I really care what your dog ate for breakfast or how your kid’s soccer game went? Nope. But I look anyway!

Let’s be real, social media is like a sneaky little trap. I used to scroll endlessly and feel all the feels—envy, comparison, you name it. I’d see someone’s perfect vacation pic and think, “Wow, must be nice,” or “At least I’m not wearing that outfit.” These apps are designed to suck us in and mess with our emotions, just like Frankenstein’s monster—but shinier.

Even scarier? A doctor on my podcast said kids who lose screen time react like they’re coming off heroin. HEROIN! Back in my day, we didn’t know who was having a party we weren’t invited to, and we were better off for it. Today’s kids are scrolling instead of creating, watching instead of imagining. Creativity has turned into a TikTok trend.

I’ve been there, too. When I started my podcast, I craved likes and comments. But now I know my worth isn’t measured in followers or analytics—it’s in doing what I love and helping just one person. Sure, big numbers would be nice (hello, sponsors!), but I’m not about to sell my soul to the social media devil.

God has a plan. Life is beautiful, but we miss it when we’re too busy living vicariously through someone else’s highlight reel. Put down the phone. Hug your family. Pet your dog. Or just sit quietly and enjoy being you.

Live your life, not someone else’s.

Big hugs and love,

XO

Bizzy

Newsletter for January 10, 2025

Do Your Old Thoughts Keep You Stuck?

Hello friends!

Welcome to 2025! This January, Conversations with Bizzy is diving into a theme that’s been on my heart: “Letting Go of What No Longer Serves You.”

The new year is always a great time to dream big and set goals, but I’ve found it’s also an opportunity to reflect on the past—learning from it, not dwelling in it. Looking back at 2024, I’ve realized there are some patterns and decisions that just don’t serve me anymore. I’m determined to release them!

For me, peace, serenity, and quality time with the people I love have become my priorities. I’ve also learned (the hard way!) not to rush into relationships or commitments that aren’t right for me. Yep, some mistakes cost more than others—literally and emotionally! But instead of beating myself up, I’m asking,“What can I learn from this? How can I make better choices in the future?”

Here’s another big realization: I haven’t always given myself enough credit.For years, I let self-doubt and old stories from my past hold me back. Buthere’s the truth: I am smart. I am capable. And I can do anything I set mymind to!

We all carry childhood wounds that can resurface in our adult lives. In the past, I would drown those feelings with busyness or distractions (hello, drinking). But now, I face them head-on—and let me tell you, it’s freeing!

One of the things I’ve embraced is learning new skills, even if they seem intimidating. Case in point: technology. In 2024, I leaned into the magic of Google, YouTube, and even ChatGPT (shoutout for teaching me how to use my digital calendar!). It’s empowering to tackle challenges on my own—and it’s are reminder that we’re never too old to learn.

My grandmother worked into her 70s, and I think she was onto something.Staying curious and challenging ourselves keeps our minds sharp and our spirits alive. So, this year, I’m giving myself permission to embrace new tools, face my fears, and grow in ways I never thought possible.

Let’s not let old, limiting self-talk keep us from becoming the brightest versions of ourselves. This is our year to shine!

With love and light,
Bizzy

P.S.

Don’t forget Bible Study this Sunday at 4pm est reach out for info

Newsletter January 4, 2025

Want to join us?

Happy New Year and hello, 2025! 🎉

Can you believe I woke up at 3 a.m. and thought, OMG, I didn’t send out a newsletter this week! After an entire year of not missing a single Friday, here I am slacking already in 2025. 😂 Okay, not really—I was just enjoying the holidays and decided to give myself a much-needed break. Now, I’m back, refreshed, and ready to roll!

I hope you had the chance to relax and enjoy the season too.

So, here’s the scoop: we kicked off 2025 by starting The Bible in a Year with Father Mike Schmitz, and it’s been amazing. Can you believe it’s only been a week? You know that moment when you sign up for something and immediately think, what have I gotten myself into? Yeah, me too. But let me tell you—this has been such an incredible experience. I look forward to my daily dose of scripture. It’s so enlightening to learn about how it all began.

If this sparks your interest, it’s not too late to join us!

Here’s what you’d be signing up for: as of now, we’re a small but mighty group of seven—men and women—who meet every Sunday at 4 p.m. EST on Zoom. We chat about the week’s readings and share our thoughts and questions. It’s not a lecture or a debate; it’s a real conversation. Everyone brings their unique perspective, and we break things down together.

For example, if someone says, wait a minute—what we read on page 10 didn’t make sense. Can we talk about it? —we dive in and explore it as a group. It’s a safe, welcoming space where everyone’s opinion is valued. We encourage honesty and sharing straight from the heart.

Here’s the thing: I’ve always wanted to read the Bible because, let’s face it, it’s the most-read book in the world every year. I didn’t want to be the only one who hasn’t read it! I want to understand it, be informed, and speak about it from a place of knowledge.

In the past, I’d pick up the Bible on January 1st, all motivated to read it, only to feel overwhelmed and confused. I’d wonder, how did someone live for 500 years? It was mind-boggling! Reading it alone felt like trying to decipher a foreign language. But doing this as a group changed everything.

Honestly, I had a little FOMO (fear of missing out) when I realized how many others understand and connect with the Bible. That’s why I finally committed—and I couldn’t be happier. If this resonates with you, I’d love for you to join us!

Here’s the link to hop in:

Join Zoom Meeting

https://zoom.us/j/99639666634?pwd=ozrdGl76vcanL6ma3SpcFbza7bc85k.1

Meeting ID: 996 3966 6634
Passcode: 831422

Oh, and fun fact: did you know Bible sales surged by 22% in the U.S. last year? Clearly, people are hungry for connection and understanding.

Maybe I’ll see you tomorrow on Zoom, but if not, have a fabulous week! I’ll be back in your inbox on Friday.

Until then, take care, sending hugs and so much love your way. 💛

XO,
Elizabeth (aka Bizzy)

Newsletter for Friday December 27, 2024

Welcome 2025: A Year of Connection, Joy, and Gratitude

Happy New Year!

As I sit here reflecting on 2024, I feel a deep sense of gratitude and pride. This past year, I committed to writing a weekly newsletter and keeping the podcast going, and I’m proud of sticking with it. For many years, I wasted so much time beating myself up, comparing myself to others, and chasing validation that didn’t matter. Looking back now, I realize what a waste that mindset was—and how freeing it is to finally embrace who I am and my mission.

Throughout this journey, loved ones and mentors have challenged me with tough but meaningful questions. When I’ve felt discouraged—frustrated that my podcast doesn’t get thousands of downloads or make any money—they’ve always asked, “Why are you doing this?”

My answer is simple: I do this to help people.

I want to share real, unfiltered stories that show others they’re not alone. That’s been my mission from the very start, and it remains at the heart of everything I do.

When I was younger, I often felt alone—even in a crowded room. Whether I was at a party, dressed to the nines, or surrounded by family, there was always this deep emptiness inside. I’d drink to quiet the thoughts of not being good enough or feeling like I didn’t belong. Alcohol numbed the pain, but it also trapped me in a dark cycle of isolation.

In 2006, I hit a breaking point and realized I needed help. It was the scariest moment of my life—giving up what felt like my best friend and my only way to cope. But I made a commitment, and when I commit to something, I stick to it.

Since that day, I haven’t picked up a drink, and I’ve discovered one of the biggest lies I believed: I was never alone. That belief kept me in the dark for so long, and I never want to go back there.

So how do I stay in the light? By sharing joy, stories, and hope.

Through my podcast and newsletter, I hope to make someone else’s day just a little easier. Whether it’s through sharing my own experiences or inviting incredible guests to share theirs, my goal is to offer tips, stories, and connection that bring hope and healing.

This year has been an amazing journey, and I’m thrilled to keep it going in 2025.

Thank you so much for reading my newsletter, subscribing, and being part of this journey. It’s been an honor to share my heart with you every week. I even think my writing has improved (thank you for sticking with me!).

As we welcome 2025, my wish for you is this: more joy and less self-inflicted pain. Let go of the negative self-talk and focus on gratitude—just one day at a time.

You are not alone, and you are so loved.

Sending hugs and kisses,
Elizabeth “Bizzy” Chance

Newsletter December 20, 2024

Let Go of Fear!

Can you imagine reaching a place where you no longer feared the unknown? A space where you trusted that what’s around the corner won’t harm you? To me, that would be absolute freedom. Not spending time consumed by “what ifs” about the future is my personal definition of peace.

We’re just five days away from Jesus’s birth, and it’s so easy to get swept up in the chaos of Christmas—the gifts, the tree, the meals, and my adult children coming home for the holidays. Striving for perfection in all of it? It can drive me crazy! But I must pause and ask myself: What truly matters this time of year? Is it about achieving perfection, or is it about finding peace, being still, and thanking God for sending Jesus to Earth for all of us?

This season, I’ve been listening to Advent reflections on the Hallow App and Ascension with Father Mike Schmitz. On the 18th, Father Mike spoke about fear and shared a story I’d heard before but never fully absorbed—until now.

He talked about Joseph. When Mary revealed she was pregnant with the Messiah through immaculate conception, Joseph was confused, fearful, and even considered divorcing her. Can you imagine? In today’s world, I think I’d probably run for the hills, too! How could Mary be “the one God chose”? Joseph’s fears were real, and his gut reaction was, “I need to get divorced.” Yet he didn’t follow through—he trusted God.

Reflecting on Joseph’s fear brought me back to my first marriage. When things got tough, my first instinct was also to run. “This is too much! I can’t handle it!” My fears about the future and regrets from the past felt overwhelming. Looking back 20 years later, I think: If I had taken the time to get sober, reach out for professional help, or even lean on my faith, would my life have been different? Of course, it would have. But would it have been better or worse? I’ll never know—and it doesn’t matter. What matters is that I’ve learned not to let fear dictate where I’m going.

Father Mike reminded me of something profound: None of us know what the future holds. The only certainty is that we will all leave this Earth someday. So why do we waste so much energy projecting what might happen tomorrow, next week, or next year?

Joy. Peace. Love. Gratitude. These gifts exist in the now. Worrying about the future—something none of us can predict—is a complete waste of time. I want to trust that everything will unfold in God’s time, not mine. My job is to live life one day at a time, one moment at a time.

Years of experience have taught me this: Nothing is inherently “good” or “bad”—it just is. My role is to learn from the past, avoid projecting negativity into the future, and stop setting unrealistic expectations. I once heard that expectations are premeditated resentments—and it’s true. Life feels so much lighter when we let go of what we wish would happen and accept things as they are.

This will be the third Christmas my son won’t be home, and yes, it breaks my heart. I wish I could change it, but I can’t. I have to trust that God has a plan.

To anyone reading this: I pray you have a wonderful Christmas. Take a moment to reflect on this—you’re doing the best you can, and that’s enough. Life isn’t easy for any of us, and no one has a “perfect” life. (Honestly, I think the only “normal” thing is Wonder Bread!). You are uniquely you, and that’s beautiful. Embrace it.

In closing, I want to share the Serenity Prayer, a powerful tool that has helped me navigate moments of fear and uncertainty:

The Serenity Prayer
God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.
Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time;
Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;
Taking, as He did, this sinful world
as it is, not as I would have it;
Trusting that He will make all things right
if I surrender to His Will;
That I may be reasonably happy in this life
and supremely happy with Him
Forever in the next.
Amen.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. Remember—you are never alone. God is with you every step of the way.

Sending you big hugs and so much love this Christmas season.

Merry Christmas!

XO,
Elizabeth “Bizzy” Chance

Newsletter for Friday the 13th of December 2024

Have a Happy Holiday Season…. No Matter What!

Now you may be asking yourself:

o   How in the world can I have an amazing time…I have invited blank to our dinner?

o   How can I have a fun holiday…a family member is sick?

o   How can I have fun…my family is totally dysfunctional?

o   How can I have fun…I am broke?

o   How can I have fun…I am going to be alone?

I am sure there are many more questions out there to challenge me about how to have fun when my life isn’t perfect. The answer to all the questions that I have mentioned is no matter what you believe is in your way to happiness, God always provides something positive and your only job is to find the positive in your own life.

Again, you may be scratching your head and thinking, “There is nothing positive in my life!”

I challenge you this holiday season to find something in your life that brings a smile to your face.

Now I can name a few things that make me happy, and I don’t think that I am the only one that finds happiness inthese:

Watching “It’s a Wonderful Life”

Watching “Meet Me in St. Louis”

The movie “Home Alone”, just the look on Kevin’s face is funny!

“Elf”! Will Farrell trying to fit into a child’s chair is just hysterical.

Driving around and looking at Christmas lights while your favorite carols are playing in the background.

Baking.

Reading an amazing book.

Writing out a gratitude list.

Dream….

Make plans for something that you have wanted to do for a long time…a bucket list item.

Time is such a fleeting thing and I think at times that I will have all the time in the world to do what I want to do but let’s face it, time is speeding past! It is time to get into action. Enough thinking!

My go-to in life is relaxing and letting go of the noise. I can always find happiness in the quiet and when I turn things over to God.

How do I do this.

1.     I try to wear life like a loose garment. Meaning I envision myself in a flowy dress and nothing else. Like when I get home from a day at the beach and shower then throw on a dress that is unconstricting and breezy. This visual gives me the feeling that everything is alright. I am comfortable and the world is good! (Even when it is spinning out of control)

2.     Listen to the song, “Let it Go” from “Frozen”!

3.     I pray and use the Hallow app religiously (no pun intended). I have found so many great challenges and meditations that help propel me into a better space.

4.     One of the collections I love has a prayer at the end that you repeat 10 times. That prayer is “O Jesus, I surrender myself to you, take care of everything” This is my definition of freedom and happiness.

Bottom line is that happiness is an inside job.

We will not find happiness unless we first find it for ourselves. It is hard I know! But take the time to be nice to you and love you! Once you do that your life will fall into place. In the beginning you may have to fake liking yourself! As I learned a long time ago, fake it till you make it.

Have a wonderful weekend and week ahead, I’ll be back next Friday and until then be nice to you!

XO

Elizabeth aka Bizzy

Newsletter for December 6, 2024

Forgiveness

Why is forgiveness so hard for people? I know that I have had a very hard time forgiving others in my life and I believe in the end it has hurt me more.

When I saw that President Joe Biden pardoned his son Hunter, it didn’t surprise me or anger me at all. It was a human moment for the President. In the end wouldn’t we all pardon our child? I know if the roles were reversed, and I was the President and my child battled addiction I would pardon my child. I know that Hunter is a broken soul. He has battled addiction for years, in fact probably his entire life.

Hunter lost his mother and sister in a horrendous car accident in which they both were killed. He was 3 years old and was in the car, but he and his brother Beau lived. The event was very traumatizing, Hunter walked away from the accident, but he had a brain injury. Again traumatizing.

Then when Hunter was 45 his brother Beau passed away from Brain Cancer!

And you wonder why the President has such a soft spot for his child! Hunter is his only living child from his marriage with his wife Neilia Hunter Biden. Side note - I see that Hunter was named after his mom; her maiden name was Hunter.

His son Hunter battles the disease of addiction and speaking as an addict it isn’t an easy disease to battle. Insurance refers to the addict as “mentally ill”. I can attest to that; our brains are wired differently: especially if one has as much trauma as Hunter has.

Self-forgiveness is very hard for the addict. We are constantly looking back, “Who did I hurt: why did I pick up again?” And “I hate who I am and what I have done”. That constant nagging in our head and heart leads us back to our drug of choice. I do not think that Hunter is necessarily a bad person, but he makes bad choices when he is inactive addiction. His father just wants to love his son and wants his son to love himself. Hence, he did what every parent would do and that is save his son from going to prison. I don’t think the President had any choice. He had to doit for Hunter and his late wife. His conscience wouldn’t allow his son to sit in jail.

He has forgiven his son! I know he prays daily that his son gets better and if keeping him out of prison will do that, he would do it time and time again. Was the President’s decision best for Hunter? I believe probably not but I am not his parent nor God. Why? Because maybe Hunter needs to go to prison. It may be what in the end helps him. But again, I am not God nor his parent.  

The shame Hunter endures is something that I can relate to personally. I have carried shame, I think, for my entire life….it is so hard to let go of who I used to be. In our Bible study this past Sunday we spoke a lot about shame.

We are going through Father Mike Schmitz’s study about Advent called Face to Face.

Here is the link, Check out this plan: Face to Face: Advent with Fr. Mike Schmitz

https://link.ascension-app.com/YRkziPco0Ob

and if you want to join us on Sunday at 4pm EST here is the Zoom link:

Elizabeth Chance is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/99639666634?pwd=ozrdGl76vcanL6ma3SpcFbza7bc85k.1
Meeting ID: 996 3966 6634
Passcode:831422.

What I found so interesting is that Father has urged the listeners to “step out from our shame”.He also spoke about anxiety and brokenness. It was very thought provoking. Our conversations were raw. We all carry shame. Unfortunately, shame grows when we keep our secrets inside of ourselves and we don’t share them. The isolation and self-loathing help to keep the shame growing and our personal sadness stick!

Rather than keeping your secrets it is time to let yourself be seen! Forgive yourself!

God has already forgiven you! God loves you more than I could ever express in words. But God’s love is always there, he knows who we are! All the lies and hurts he is already aware of! He knows, so who cares what other humans think about you? Friends come and go and so does family for that matter. So why not just be you!

Let your true self shine with all your heart

I believe forgiveness takes work! Speaking to a therapist, a priest, a sponsor or doing the 12 steps from Alcoholics Anonymous can help you get to the place where you no longer regret the past nor wish to shut the door on it.

My personal shame lingers at times, but I am continually working on myself. It isn’t easy but getting closer to God and our Blessed Mother Mary has helped more than I can describe. I know God loves me and you! Our egos are so big that we think that we are unforgivable people but that isn’t true! I love the acronym of EGO, easing God out. God has forgiven us, and it is time to forgive ourselves.

Get to work.

Love you all and thank you for reading.

XO

Elizabeth akaBizzy

If you have a story you would like to share let me know, elizabeth@elizabethchance.com I would love to have you on. My new hashtag #ConversationsWithBizzy.

Newsletter for November 29, 2024

Black Friday  

I remember when Black Friday was introduced! Marketing it at its finest. Run, you must get the deals! Set your alarms because the store is opening at midnight, and you don’t want to miss this once in a lifetime deal! Anxiety and fear inducing advertising. Did you fall for it?

Not to shame you but I never did…because let’s face it I wasn’t going to go stand in the cold with a bunch of strangers in the middle of the night in the freezing cold hoping to get my hands on an item that I could wait for.

I am writing this on Thanksgiving morning, and I feel like the same fear and anxiety provoking behavior is now happening all the time! Its Thanksgiving and the media are promoting fear at your Thanksgiving dinner table! Just because you didn’t all vote the same way? Give me a break!

In my humble opinion I think that we all cherish our family time a lot more than politics!

It is the start of Advent on Sunday and I for one is excited. Not only because I can unapologetically listen to Christmas music all day long, and decorate my home like Mrs. Claus, but it is the start of the real meaning of Christmas, Jesus’s birth.

This Sunday I start my Bible Study and I am over the moon to start reading the bible with friends from all over the Country. If you want to join here is the link patreon.com/elizabethchance. I have never read the bible from cover to cover, and it has been on my so-called bucket list for a long time. We are going to use Father Mike Schmitz book, “Bible in a Year”. It should not only be a learning experience but a time to bond with people over the greatest book ever written. I love that Ben Shapiro says, “it is the best self-help book ever written”.

This Christmas season will be about getting closer to God and celebrating the real meaning of Christmas. No drama and no anxiety or fear, just love, hope and peace.

It’s ironic that God tell us not to fear numerous times in the bible. We need to trust, let go and know that everything is going to be ok! This does not mean that everything is going to be easy, or life is going to look the way we think it should look, but it will be the way God has intended. It is crazy that everything that I thought was so painful to go through in my life is where I have learned the most.

My hope for all of you reading this is that you go into this holiday season with less anxiety and expectations. That you all can enjoy each day and cherish it like it could be your last and know that God is good. Life is a gift, and the best present is living in the present rather than the past or the future.

Talk to you all next week and until then sending blessings and love to you all.

Again, I am grateful for everyone reading this.

God bless you.

XO,

Elizabeth aka Bizzy

P.S. The start of my new branding began this week and now you find me under “Conversations with Bizzy”, I’ll always be Busy Living Sober that is just me.

“Why I Rebranded” because I wanted my message to be enjoyed by everyone. My mission is to share “Real talks about life, love and finding the light within”. To talk about, Relationships, Recovery, Spirituality, Motherhood challenges, stories of triumph and resilience. My guests are women who have started their own business, people that have taken risks and are willing to share their stories, conversations about life, hope and connection.

If you have a story you would like to share let me know, elizabeth@elizabethchance.comI would love to have you on.

My new hashtag #ConversationsWithBizzy

Newsletter for November 22, 2024

Things are changing….

Do you ever feel like you have been at something for so long and it isn’t getting the results you had envisioned? What do you do? Give up? Pivot? Or walk away frustrated? 

I have been having these feelings for a while….

For those of you that know me personally know that I am very extroverted and outgoing. When I meet a stranger they feel like we are friends right away. From a brief conversation the person will ask, “What do you do?” My answer is always, “I host a podcast.” Then they respond, “What is the name of your podcast? What do you talk about?” My response is “Sobriety and it’s called Busy Living Sober”.... They then think about it and respond, “That is nice, but I don’t have a drinking problem.” Hence I would walk away scratching my head… my podcast isn’t all about sobriety, but the name! UGH…

When I started Busy Living Sober my main objective was to change the stigma associated with addiction. I can say with certainty that is happening! More and more podcasts are coming out discussing sobriety. Either people are getting sober because they have a real problem or they are “sober curious” and they have come to the conclusion that alcohol is not great for them. In general my main objective is coming into fruition and for that I am grateful and feel like today it is time to change! 

In the past I have made little changes but nothing stuck! I did as they say half ass! 

I have some fear! I will lose some of my devoted followers if I change. It has been 8 years recording under the same name and changing it could cause confusion and backlash. But not doing anything is not an option anymore! 

I have come to the fork in the road where I am either going to continue or change. Go straight or get off of the path that I am on and try something new. The road I choose may be a little rocky and bumpy at first but it is time to change things up!

You may be thinking, “What is she doing?” 

I am still going to be sharing people’s stories under my new name. I am just going to be able to share more peoples stories, not just recovering alcoholics and drug addicts. 

My new mission is  “Real talks about life, love and finding the light within”

What do you think my new title of the show is going to be??? 

Reach out and let me know what your thoughts are and stay tuned this week for new reveals. I promise you are going to love the new changes. 

BTW if you feel like you need a change in your life please reach out with what you are going through…you may be my next guest.

Thanks for always being there and supporting me. 

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving. I know that all of you are going to be mentioned when I share what I am grateful for this past year. 

Gobble, gobble, gobble. 

Love you all.

Elizabeth aka Bizzy 

Happy Friday November 15, 2024

The Spirit of the Season

Hi hope today’s newsletter finds each one of you well.

Do you feel the energy in the air? The hope and excitement that life is getting back to what it used to be like is what I've been feeling. I used to wait until after Thanksgiving to put up all my Christmas decorations, but now I'm really itching to do it! The carols, lights, trees, and feelings that come with Christmas—I'm so excited for it all! I read some article or something that said if you start listening to Christmas music and decorate early, you'll be happier. So why not?

Why not? Should we move up Christmas, so it lasts from before Thanksgiving through New Year’s? As I write this, I think… NO, we should wait, but I am so excited for Christmas.

Wow, this is an example of how writing things down puts life into perspective. I know that I've had times where thoughts keep coming, one after another.Rational, irrational, but they keep coming. My mind isn't quiet, and I want to react to each idea and feeling, but we can't. Writing down what's happening in our minds can hopefully give us perspective.

Just a side note LOL

Back to the impending holidays. This week kind of felt like Christmas for me. I had the chance to go in front of the camera. "Inside South Florida ," a lifestyle show here in South Florida, (if you want to take a look at the show https://www.wsfltv.com/inside-south-florida, I’ll be sharing the clip once it gets published Thanksgiving night) invited me on. I spoke briefly about my story and made two mocktails. It was so much fun! I just love being in front of the camera; it felt so natural.

For so long, all I wanted was to be on TV! I love lights, camera, action! I applied for so many jobs in TV and never got the callback. My excuses to soothe myself were that I am too old, too fat, and maybe not good enough. Instead of waiting for a job, I decided to make my own show. No regrets! Everything has happened exactly as God planned.

I tell you this story because it reflects how life is; we have dreams. We all grow up hoping we can be this or that, and sometimes it happens easily for some. From afar, it looks like they didn't put in much effort, yet their dreams came true. For others, more obstacles are placed in front of us. The key is staying true to yourself. Don't give up! God has a plan

My dream of my show growing means changing its name. My 500th podcast is coming out on November 27, and moving forward, the show will be called"Conversations with Bizzy". I believe this name change will expand my audience beyond just sobriety talks.

Lastly, to help you get excited about the coming holidays, we are going to start reading the Bible on December 1, 2024. If you're interested, or if you have a friend or neighbor who might be, please sign up to my Patreon at patreon.com/busylivingsoberpodcast.We'll have open and honest conversations about what we've read that week in the Bible, discussing any questions or confusions we may have.

That’s enough from me!

Have a stupendous weekend and week, and I’ll be back next Friday.

Sending love and hugs

XO

Elizabeth aka Bizzy