Happy Holidays - December NewsletterA Season to Slow Down, Connect, and Reflect Dear Northlanders, It is hard to believe Christmas is just 9 days away and that we are closing out the year 2025. If you are like me, this season is filled with the joyful hustle and bustle of everyday life. It is a time we look forward to checking the mail for Christmas photos from friends and family, baking recipes that honor generations of tradition, attending craft sales, decorating the tree, enjoying school concerts, and watching Sunday School programs. This past year has been unique in many ways. As we head into the holidays, I wanted to write this newsletter about the joy of relationships and the importance of spending meaningful time together. During my visits to school districts across our region, I’ve had many conversations about mental health and well-being. Since COVID, mental health concerns across all ages have increased by nearly 40%. This is something we must all pause to reflect on. We live in a world with 24-hour news, 365 days a year. We live in a time of constant device use... cell phones, iPads, laptops, and televisions. Endless scrolling can quietly become addictive for people of all ages. Now, more than ever, we need to place safeguards around our screen time so our minds have space to rest and recharge. Not that long ago, most people received their news during the evening broadcast or through special Sunday programs. While social media offers many positives and helps people stay connected, there is also a downside when scrolling replaces face-to-face conversations or meaningful phone calls. About a month ago, I decided to take one full day each week off from social media and the news. On Sundays, I pause for worship, time with family and friends, walks in the woods, and baking. This time to reflect, renew, and restore has been incredibly valuable. Time spent in nature and away from screens allows for quiet moments, reflection, and the enjoyment of music and simple joys. As the holidays approach, I encourage you to consider taking time for yourself as well perhaps choosing one day to unplug and allow your mind to decompress. The benefits are truly amazing. As we celebrate this season, I wish you all joy, peace, and hope. Let us allow our lights to shine brightly and remember that there is always something to be thankful for. There are always improvements to be made, and there are always solutions to be found. I am honored to serve as your state representative and look forward to a new year filled with hope and a thriving 2026 for all of Minnesota. In the warmth of the season, Rep. Natalie Zeleznikar Minnesota House of Representatives, District 3B  Visiting Second Harvest  Attending Charlie Kirk award with Rep. Skraba for student essay on how Charlie Kirk impacted their life.  Live on the radio. With Peter Wood - a three generation logger who hosts "Let the saw dust fly". I was on with Rep. Carroll as well.  Attended a local farm bureau meeting.  Attended Minnesota chamber event for women in leadership.  Attended bipartisan event at Essentia hospital. Time in Schools My day in Two Harbors with Lake Superior District.  My day with Duluth schools.  Correspondence mail from elementary students.  Day at Edison Charter schools. 'Tis the Season Carrying out family Christmas traditions.   Attending Norwegian festival.  Santa Stopped at Fredenberg community center.  Rice Lake pot luck and time with Santa.  Attended Gary New Duluth community center bake sale.  Baking with residents at The Pillars assisted living in Hermantown. |