Sometimes being disconnected from social media is the most real and authentic thing you can actually share. There were moments throughout the trip when I felt pressure to capture content, even though I had an aversion to physically holding my phone. I was in the moment, laughing with friends, holding Jack, jumping in the ocean. This realization made me reflect on this year and how I can be my own worst critic. I often felt like I wasn’t grieving the “right” way, that I didn’t have kids at the “normal” age (for the city having 4 kids at 38 is NOT the norm), I started my business too late, and so on. If only I had the time to focus more on my professional growth in my 30’s… and the person who inspired me to have a big family and was supposed to enjoy it with me wasn’t even in this realm anymore. Why me? Why did I lose my dad at 37 and my youngest brother at 27? How is that fair? All these thoughts came into contemplation after his passing. But through each stage of grief and all the pain, I’ve learned that comparison truly is the thief of joy and that I am exactly where I am supposed to be. So this year, I’ve vowed to be more grateful of my life and my choices that lead me here. To be my own champion now that my dad is no longer that for me. If that means sometimes I have less photos that are replaced with real memories, so be it. I am grateful for my path, for the family I’ve built, for the career I have, even though it hasn’t been easy and even though my dad isn’t here to share it with me. But most of all, and the most difficult pain to be grateful of, was that of my body speaking to me and telling me to slowwwww down. I learned from @nicolesachslcsw that sometimes slowing down is actually ramping up. So I’m taking it slower. I’m pausing. I’m breathing. I’m asking myself, what do you REALLY want to do next? There is no right way. And without feeling societal pressure, there is less fear and without all that fear, you can really be free. 2026 I welcome you with love and gratitude. I hope this helps others see that you are exactly where you are supposed to be. Much love. Xo