Most of us, by the time December rolls around, start thinking about what we’ve done over the past year. I certainly do. It doesn’t help that nearly every app we use—from music platforms like Spotify and Apple Music to social media such as Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and even professional dashboards like LinkedIn—tracks our activity. Our lives are documented across digital platforms, and in a way, it’s nice to see what kept us busy for an entire year.
For instance, my music app tells me my top genre is jazz, with Bill Evans as my most-played artist and Charles Mingus a close second. For those who know me, this comes as no surprise. I shared this with a music-enthusiast friend, who joked that we should exchange jazz artists. Interestingly, the results were the same the previous year—jazz and Bill Evans once again. That gave me pause and made me realize I should expand and discover more. I won’t lie—Bill Evans will probably still top my list in 2026—but I’ve promised myself I’ll mix things up a bit.
As I reflect on 2025, I ask myself whether I’ve been open enough to new things. I’d like to think I have. This year, in particular, has been full of new possibilities and opportunities, though it was also marked by hardship. I was laid off, and even though I had prepared for it, I still experienced a sense of grief and self-doubt.
I told myself I would take things easy for six months, and now, in December, I’ve reached that mark. Somewhere along the way, with encouragement from friends and family, I took the plunge and started a small creative business venture. At first, I thought, why not treat it as a side hustle while I look for work? But sometime between late summer and early fall, something shifted. I asked myself, why not make this my main hustle?
I was already doing the work—getting a business license, learning the difference between a sole proprietorship and an LLC, signing up for a drawing class (which I’m admittedly neglecting at the moment), and participating in vendor fairs. Who needs work? This is my full-time job, and I need to give it a real chance. It’s scary as the boogeyman, but I’m an adult, and I have to face my fears—right?
What I really want to convey is my deep appreciation for the people who have been my confidants, cheerleaders, and sources of kindness—especially you, my followers and readers. So many people, past and present, have shaped who I am today. Even something as simple as the first colored pencil set I was given (which I still have and will write about in a future post) played a part in this journey.
As this year comes to a close, I invite you to pause for a moment and reflect on what shaped your own journey—what challenged you, what surprised you, and what you’re carrying forward into the new year.In summary, 2025 has been a tough year—one I am nonetheless grateful for. I see it as a bridge, helping me step into a world of magical things to come. And you, my dear readers and followers, have contributed to that more than you know. Happy Holidays, and wishing you a blessed 2026. Be safe, and enjoy time with your friends, family, and loved ones.