Being Reflective
As the final days of 2025 come into view, it’s impossible not to reflect on the whirlwind of moments, milestones, and memories that defined this year. What began as a year marked by resilience, innovation, and reconnection unfolded into one overflowing with gratitude, adventure, and unforgettable experiences.
Time to reflect on 2025.
When I look back, I can’t help but smile. This was a year shaped by the people around me—family who brought comfort, friends who brought excitement, and the unforgettable soundtrack of three extraordinary music festivals. It was a year that made me wish I could hit rewind just one more time.
I managed to accomplish about 60% of my 25 for 25 list—something I’m genuinely proud of. Even better, many of the highlights weren’t on the list at all, which is exactly how I love life to unfold. One of the biggest joys was traveling to the UK last spring and spending a week in London with my sister. It was a spur-of-the-moment trip, which are often the very best. That trip alone added a chapter of memories I’ll treasure forever.
Time with my daughters, friends, and family—whether through BBQs, dinners, walks, or spontaneous adventures—was time well spent. 2025 reminded me again and again that balance matters: ambition and rest, imagination and practicality, looking forward and being present. It was a year of rediscovering hobbies, building new habits, and reigniting dreams that had been waiting patiently.
The year began with a renewed appreciation for the people who matter most. Family gatherings felt richer and more intentional. Spontaneous visits, long-awaited reunions, and cozy evenings grounded the year in warmth. Friends—old and new—turned simple moments into stories worth retelling.
And then there were the music festivals—vibrant, energizing anchor points in my year.
Summer kicked off with the Salmon Arm Roots & Blues Festival—a place where warm evenings, mountain views, and soulful music created pure magic. Dancing barefoot in the grass, discovering new artists, and reconnecting with my cousin and her husband made the weekend unforgettable.
Next came the iconic Edmonton Folk Fest. Tarps spread across the hill, voices rising into the warm night air, and the perfect mix of folk, indie, and global sounds created a calm yet electric energy. Sharing this experience with two first-timers added an extra layer of joy—there’s something special about watching someone fall in love with a festival for the first time.
Edmonton Folk Festival, 2025
The grand finale was Louisville’s Bourbon & Beyond Festival—a blend of world-class music, Kentucky flavors, and southern charm. Between exploring, sampling bourbon, and meeting amazing people, the weekend felt like a celebration of life itself.
Visiting Churchill Downs was a dream come true. Standing in the grandstands, imagining legendary races from the past century, and seeing the iconic twin spires felt surreal.
Another unexpected highlight was the Muhammad Ali Museum. Wow—just wow. His life, his courage, and his legacy left me deeply moved. One quote has stayed with me:
“Find greatness within.”
Muhammad Ali Mural
As I close the chapter on 2025, I carry with me momentum, gratitude, and the spirit of possibility. The year reminded me that meaningful moments often come from unexpected places—and that the best memories are made with the people who walk beside us.
Here’s to everything 2025 brought, and everything still waiting in the year ahead. Bring on 2026!
Reflection Questions:
What is a highlight for you from 2025?
What are you grateful for?
How will you start 2026?
🎵 Songs of the Week 🎵
What I am listening to this week:
Zach Top - I Never Lie (Live At The Ryman)
Patti Smith - Dancing Barefoot
Zach Top - I Never Lie
💿 Being’s Blog Playlist 💿