Our family spent a few days together over Christmas. We had a pizza and ice cream supper for Joe’s 57th birthday one night, then on Christmas, we had a 10:30 brunch.

So while telling others what to do remains more satisfying than getting off my duff and making something happen, I’ll err on the side of practicality.

As 2025 comes to a close, a look back at the year shows one filled with highs, lows and everything in between. It really was the "year that kept on giving," at least for the Olivers.

Turning bills into laws is only one step in a lengthy process. Money is usually required, and simply getting people talking about an issue is no guarantee those conversations will lead to action.

"First and foremost, Illinois must restore a sense of fiscal responsibility," state Sen. Craig Wilcox of McHenry writes of his wish list for 2026.

That we’re still on the improvement path seven years later isn’t the most encouraging, but it does show a commitment to actually addressing problems.

Some districts will seize these new opportunities. But not every Illinois school is equipped to offer such options.

Dec. 31 marks the 250th anniversary of the death of Richard Montgomery, who was killed in the frontal assault on Quebec City on New Year’s Eve 1775.

What a joy it is to me when we can be with our loved ones. Let us remember the reason for the season.