2025 was a year of triumphant life changes and challenges, taking risks, and pure joy for our family. Never in my 67 years have I experienced so many changes. Life successes for me included being married for 45 years to the same wonderful guy, being the mother of four daughters and a grandparent to 11, living in the same home in Danbury for 43 years, and running a nursery school there for 20-plus years. Fond memories include climbing the apple tree, snow sliding on the hill or on the water slippy slide, riding Big Wheels in the playground, working in the vegetable garden, counting fish, frogs, and snakes in the garden pond, and large family dinners. I have been fortunate to work in the field of early childhood education as a director of services, a teacher, a coach or mentor, and by volunteering my knowledge on different boards of directors for over 45 years.

In 2009, with a diagnosis of breast cancer, and another diagnosis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia in 2011, I decided that I never wanted a cancer diagnosis to define who I am. This experience humbled me. With many prayers, a very supportive family, and wonderful coworkers, I feel good, I am positive, and I work a full-time job.

In 2023, we became empty nesters, and my husband and I started to talk about downsizing. Not sure about what we really wanted in a new home, except something smaller that included our 130-pound English Mastiff, we began the new home search. We thought about rentals, smaller houses, where to go and stay in Connecticut, and moving from the state, but we knew we wanted to be near the grandkids. In October of 2024, our daughter announced they were pregnant with twin girls. That made our decision easier - to find a house with enough space for us all. So, the search for the perfect house with separate quarters ensued. In December of 2024, we found the perfect house and moved shortly after. It was hard to leave the house we had lived in for 43 years, with all its memories; however, in May 2025, we were blessed with two beautiful baby girls. The move and the changes we endured were all worth it.

What are my wishes and resolutions for 2026? Good health for all of us, the ability to learn patience, and to appreciate the little things that make a difference, not always just the big wins. Our world is a tough one right now and many families are struggling. I pray that 2026 brings everyone stability and peace, fewer struggles, fewer people living in fear, and space for meaningful time with their families. I hope that our next generation continues to show heightened kindness and empathy toward others, an understanding of those who are different from ourselves, and the time and space to create a world in which humanity is the guiding principle behind all actions. With much thankfulness and appreciation for the families that make our community strong and what it is today.

Happy New Year!

Anne E. Mead, Ed. D. is the director of Family, School, and Community Partnerships for Danbury Public Schools. She can be reached at 203-830-6508 or by email at meadan@danburyu.k12.ct.us.