2025: Few Words, Big Moments

Posted on

December 27, 2025

I didn’t write much this year. Life took over; and a lot of my time was swallowed by a mobile game that somehow became more demanding than a full-time job. Lesson learned :o). I wrote about it here.

My website also went through few issues that ended up re-following many blogs I had lost along the way. Apologies for inconvenience this may have caused. And yes, in the middle of all that, I moved my WordPress site to the 2025 block theme. Here’s why moving to a block theme might be worth it.

Another moment came from Google. Eight years ago, I was penalized and banned for life from some of its services for an issue that wasn’t even my fault. I walked away from Google entirely in response. Recently, I was surprised to see my AdSense account reactivated after all these years.

The most meaningful part of 2025, though, was visiting Syria. After 15 years, I finally visited my home country; and even managed to go more than once. This moment alone reshaped the whole year for me.

And time keeps moving fast. My daughter is now in Year 12 at school, which pushed me into a new mindset. University plans, questions, and preparations have officially begun. A mix of pride, stress, fear, and excitement.

2025 wasn’t loud, but I sense the coming years will be. Meanwhile, I have to mention that the new MacOS and iOS transparent design feels awkward and unattractive; the complete opposite of the simple, user-friendly experience Apple used to brag about.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

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Comments

26 responses to “2025: Few Words, Big Moments”

December 31, 2025

Linda

My friend, how wonderful that you got to visit your homeland! I can’t believe Sham is on the verge of going to University! Where does she want to go and what does she want to study? My how time flies! I don’t spend much time on WordPress these days, but I had to go and read about your game experience. It’s crazy how games can suck us in and we lose all track of time! I haven’t been playing much lately but Animal Crossing (on the Switch) is coming out with an unexpected update and I’ve put my fair share of hours into Dinkum (on PC and now also Switch.) Maybe now that it’s snowy and cold out, I’ll spend more time with them. They don’t require money beyond the initial cost of the game, so I didn’t have to pay to play ongoing. Still, I agree that it’s important to keep track of how much time you put into a game. You were wise to walk away as it got more demanding! Be well my friend, and please give my best to your wife and, of course, dear Sham.

Reply
1. December 31, 2025
  
  Mohamad Al Karbi
  
  Linda, it’s always a great pleasure to hear from you. I was myself away for a while even from Facebook. Hope you and your husband are doing well and my best wishes to you in the new year. Yes, time flies. She was a kid just yesterday now she wants to study psychology. I’m pretty sure games are fun during the snow and the good thing there is no extra charges. Though, I’d be very happy to see a post from you during the snow lock down 🙂 today is my lucky day for sure hearing from you
  
  Reply
January 2, 2026

Cookingfriend

Happy new year from Germany!

Reply
1. January 2, 2026
  
  Mohamad Al Karbi
  
  Germany: Our beloved country. Frohes Neues Jahr.
  
  Reply
January 4, 2026

Maryanne

Happy New Year! I’m enjoying learning about your life. I’m glad we found each others blogs.

Reply
1. January 4, 2026
  
  Mohamad Al Karbi
  
  The pleasure and honor are mine, Maryanne.
  
  Reply