buh-bye 2025 (yes I’m early)

2025 was the first year in my entire life that I lived alone for the entirety of the year.

I wasn’t thrilled at first about being out here in the sticks all by myself, but it turned out to be exactly what I needed.

I learned how to just be in a way I never had before. Yes, there were moments I found myself in survival mode - but not like the past, when I felt responsible for carrying someone else along with me. This time, it was about me. Learning what was happening inside me. Learning how to be okay with it.

I found my resilience on my own.

I learned how to rest in the slowness of this sweet little farm, instead of turning it into endless work - the way I once did to avoid facing a reality I wasn’t ready for. This year, I let it all happen - and even got to see my very reactive dog make friends with the last goat standing, Ellen. 

2025 was the year I found myself again

(I also made it to the beach).

I found clarity. And with that came the beginning of being okay with myself - even the things no one is proud to advertise - my flaws, my drive, my mistakes, my fears.

And it has all been okay.

And it will all be okay.

The end of the year has always been a reflective time for me, and if I had to sum it up, I’d say this: life comes at you fast. You can plan and prepare all you want, but you never really know what’s coming.

This year taught me to take it all in. To let it sting (or soothe). To soften sharp edges and strengthen ones that were maybe too soft. To experience it fully.

To lean into every feeling with openness and curiosity, letting it stay long enough to be understood. 

then box it up, pretty it with a bow, and send it on its way.

2025 was about restoration.

Some people never grow through what they go through. I see it often. I wasn’t always a fan of the lessons my parents taught me growing up, but now I’m grateful I was raised to at least believe that even life’s unpleasantries carry something worth walking away with.

Because sometimes the only way to learn how to fly

is to leap over the edge of uncertainty.

I’m already looking ahead to 2026 with steadier feet. I’m starting early - today actually, because Mondays are perfect ‘fresh start’ days for me. Today I am leaving behind a vice or two, welcoming a few better habits, and choosing slow and intentional over fast and now.

Happy Monday, folks. And Happy New Year for those that need new beginnings on Mondays :)

xo

-s