Living in Texas has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.Choosing to stay in a small Texas town? Life-changing.

Labubu (pronounced La-boo-boo) — another seemingly meaningless toy going for up to $950?! Before you assume this is some kind of collector's item you’ll flip for profit (like Beanie Babies in 2001 that barely crossed the $40 mark), think again. These little creatures are likely part of another trend boosted by the rise of "blind boxes."

“This year was different. This year was great.” But… why was it great? As someone who worked closely behind the scenes—scheduling, promoting, and designing a marketing plan held together with duct tape, prayer, and caffeine—I’ll be real with you: this year felt like we were building an event with our hands tied behind our backs.