That's a Wrap...on Lent 2026!

As I wrote in my post back in February, at the beginning of Lent, my focus was on mind, body, and spirit. I can always do better and will continue to strive to do so. With that said, here is what I accomplished and learned as the 2026 Lenten season has come to an end. 

1. Lost 15 pounds with good old-fashioned discipline and hard work. I still have a ways to go to get back to my military weight, but I proved to myself I can do it. It’s a little harder as I am older and I went through eight years of medical issues, but it can be done. 

2. I finally found a personal training gym and trainer. I have been searching for both since I moved home last year, and it was looking bleak. And then, on Ash Wednesday, I had an assessment with the owner/trainer of a gym I found, and I’ve been with her since. Divine fitness intervention is what I call it! 

3. Hallow every day for at least 30 minutes, if not more. Found a new church since the drive to my old one in the Southbay is too far to attend regularly. I really like the Hallow app and will continue to use it daily. I feel spiritually rejuvenated and look forward to getting more involved with the new church. 

4. Inching closer and closer to going all in on myself and focus only on acting and writing. I should be able to do this by August or December at the latest. Now, I tried this back in February of 2020, quit my corporate job, had my savings to get by on for a bit, and decided to go back to acting/writing—no day job. And then March 2020 happened, and the world lost its damn mind, especially California. It’s why I left CA for a while. I moved back home last year to give it another go. But God help me, if another scamdemic derails attempt #2. I will crash out, and I will not be held responsible for my actions. Just saying! 

5. In the past year or so, I’ve had what I call the Ghosts of Chrystel’s Past pop up. My advice to those ghosts: I am not rich or famous, so there is no need to reach out to me; I can do nothing for you. Nothing you can use me for. The ball is in no one’s court. In fact, there isn’t even a ball or a court. If you have not been a positive part of my life in the last few years; or if you dipped on me, ghosted me, or my personal favorite, gave me the Irish goodbye, when I was at the lowest points in my life; I can promise you that if I ever “make it” or even if I don’t, there will never be a place for you in my life, except in my writing. But don’t worry, I always change the names before I publish! 

6. Behavior is a language. I’ll say it again, behavior is a language. A person’s behavior tells you who they are, not their words. If someone treats you poorly once, it can be a fluke. But twice? That’s their behavior, it’s who they are. As Maya Angelou said, “When someone shows you who they are, believe them.” Life is too short to waste on people who don’t belong in your life. 

7. Boundaries are good, and NO is a full sentence. I have worked hard to set boundaries and say no, which can be really tough to do in the entertainment business. But I strive to ensure all my decisions have intention behind them. I will turn down an audition if I don't feel the project or if casting isn’t professional. I have turned down bookings when it didn’t feel right, they asked me to do something I am not comfortable with, or the pay wasn’t acceptable. Of course, it is easier to do this when you aren’t being offered film or TV roles on the networks or major streamers. But I truly believe if I ever get to that level, I will stay true to my values, morals, and boundaries.