My 2025 Reflection + What’s Ahead for 2026
2025 was a year that stretched me, softened me, and ultimately shifted me.
This year held a lot: health concerns, parenting challenges, emotional exhaustion and grief. It was a season of pruning, and sometimes pruning means loss, stillness, or stepping back in order to grow again.
What 2025 Taught Me
1. I can do hard things while still being tender.
Motherhood stretched me this year. Navigating behavioral struggles, balancing the invisible workload, and trying to stay grounded through it all was a challenge. But I showed up, everyday, even when my energy was low.
2. Creativity isn’t linear.
There were weeks when I felt uninspired, and that was okay. I learned to trust the ebb and flow. My floral collection became deeply personal, my seascapes became more emotional, and for the first time I created a self-portrait that captured who I’m becoming.
3. I found peace in small rituals.
Gardening, neighborhood walks with my pup Dax, drinking my coffee while painting after the boys departed for school. Little things have made my day brighter amongst the chaos.
4. I carried love and grief at the same time.
Recently, I brought our pup Dax in to the vet because he hasn’t been feeling well. Right away they discovered a large mass growing in his stomach, most likely cancer. The grief I’ve been experiencing, knowing that our days are limited has been so heavy. Loving him through his final season has taught me more about presence and gentleness than anything else.
5. I realized I deserve support too.
2025 illuminated the imbalance in my day-to-day load. It helped me recognize where I need clearer boundaries, shared responsibility, support and compassion — from others and from myself.
Looking Ahead to 2026
2025 was pruning, 2026 is blooming.
This upcoming year, I’m choosing intention — not perfection. Alignment — not hustle. A steadier, more grounded version of myself.
My focus for 2026
1. Body & Mind First.
I want to feel energized again. For me, that looks like gentle movement, morning rhythms that calm me, and clothes that make me feel like myself again.
2. Space for Creativity.
I’m not forcing my art; I’m allowing it to return naturally. I’ll be continuing my new collections, exploring looser styles, and releasing work as it unfolds.
3. Growing My Candle Line.
“Finding the Light” will continue to be my theme — through my blends, gift boxes, and small-batch releases.
4. Stronger Boundaries & Softer Living.
I’m choosing peace over obligation.
5. A New Season of Motherhood.
With both boys in school, a new chapter has emerged. A chapter with space for myself, wellness, and growth as an artist. 2025 showed me the importance of values, priorities and boundaries. 2026 is all about implementation and finally thriving - not just surviving.
2026 for me is about re-emerging.
About blooming in my own timing.
About choosing joy, energy, and alignment.
If you’re also stepping into a new season, I hope this year brings you softness, clarity, and the courage to choose what truly serves you.