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By: Ellie Burgueño, Journalist and Writer.
As November unfolds, it brings with it a season of reflection and gratitude—a time to pause and truly appreciate the gifts in our lives that money cannot buy: family, health, love, peace, and the simple joy of sharing a meal with those we care for most. Thanksgiving is approaching, and with it comes the perfect moment to breathe, look back, and recognize the countless blessings that surround us. For me, this year, gratitude feels particularly deep.
I am profoundly thankful for my family—the unwavering support, the laughter, and even the challenges that have shaped who I am. Family is the foundation upon which everything else in life is built, and I am blessed to have loved ones who stand as pillars of strength and encouragement, reminding me daily of the importance of connection, compassion, and loyalty.
I am also grateful for my work and my publications, which have become bridges of communication and understanding across communities. Nearly a decade ago, I embarked on this path with a vision to inform, inspire, and connect people. Today, looking back at what we’ve accomplished, I feel proud of the milestones we’ve reached, the partnerships we’ve formed, and the doors we’ve opened. This year, in particular, has been remarkable professionally. I had the joy of presenting my second book on personal finance for women, Hey Girls, You Can Also Become Badass Money Makers, and launching our book tour—a project that is deeply personal and empowering for women seeking financial independence. Adding to this, having received the Excellence in Journalism Award from the San Diego Press Club, a recognition that honors the dedication, integrity, and impact of our work, is very gratifying. Each of these achievements is a reminder that consistent effort, passion, and belief in our vision can create meaningful outcomes.
Gratitude extends to the people who have been part of this journey—the ones who stayed, contributing their energy, talent, and vision, and also to those who left, each of whom taught us lessons in resilience, discernment, and growth. Life, in its infinite complexity, has a way of revealing people’s true colors as we evolve. Sometimes, friendships transform, and people who were once close can drift away—or even become adversaries—without warning. It’s a difficult truth, but an essential one. It reminds us to focus on what truly matters and to invest our energy in relationships built on trust, respect, and shared values.
At the same time, these experiences have illuminated the incredible value of those who remain: the friends, partners, and allies who see our potential even when we doubt ourselves, who lift us up when the path feels dark, and who celebrate our victories with genuine joy. These are the people worth cherishing, the ones who make the journey meaningful.
Gratitude also includes acknowledging our personal growth. We are all works in progress—under construction, striving to become our best selves. Life teaches us daily that our thoughts, habits, and the company we keep shape who we are and who we become. Taking care of our minds, bodies, and spirits is essential, as is nurturing the environments we inhabit. By surrounding ourselves with people who see the best in us and encourage us to pursue our dreams, we create fertile ground for growth, innovation, and fulfillment.
As we approach the close of another year, it is a natural time to reflect on the past and to dream boldly for the future. Thanksgiving reminds us not only to celebrate what we have but also to envision what is possible. For me, that vision includes continued growth for our publications, new milestones, and the courage to tackle challenges with resilience and optimism. It includes cherishing the relationships that sustain us and embracing opportunities to learn from every encounter, both pleasant and difficult.
I am inspired by the journey we have traveled so far and by the people who have made it possible. To those who have believed in us when the road seemed uncertain, to those who have contributed their time, trust, and dedication, and to every reader, partner, and friend who has been part of this almost ten-year journey in circulation, I extend my heartfelt thanks.
This November, as we gather with loved ones, I hope we all take a moment to reflect on the blessings that cannot be measured in dollars—family, health, love, true friendship, and the satisfaction of meaningful work. May we continue to grow, to learn, and to move forward with gratitude, hope, and a renewed commitment to become the best versions of ourselves.
Happy Thanksgiving, and thank you for being part of this journey.