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Somehow, 2025 got away from me.
Between the holidays, real life, and the steady hum of the sewing machine, the year quietly slipped through my fingers. Sitting down to write this feels a bit like catching up and a bit like procrastinating. I’ve always loved getting my thoughts out with pen to paper, or in this case, fingers to keyboard. Writing helps me make sense of things.
If you follow along on social media, you know this past season brought big changes for our family. Marc lost his job unexpectedly, which was a shock, but it became a blessing in disguise. He’s since landed a new role that supports his mental health, something that matters more than ever right now.
As we adjusted to his new schedule and enjoyed the holidays, Sweet As April went viral again, and I found myself glued to my sewing machine. I couldn’t be more grateful for that kind of work and momentum.
Now, as January moves along, I’m easing back into the creative practices I love when I’m not sewing. That includes writing here and painting. I’ve been releasing small Heirloom Mini paintings every Friday on the site, and seeing people connect with these tiny pieces of art has been deeply encouraging. Painting every day has already changed how I feel this year. The more I paint, the better I feel, and the more I can create.
This post is simply me checking back in.
In the next few days, I’ll be launching my Paint to Pixel course, where you can paint along with me and learn how to turn hand-drawn or hand-painted artwork into digital assets using your phone, an iPad with Procreate, and, in a bonus lesson, Photoshop for creating repeating patterns.
I say it every year, but this one feels different. With small personal wins and a better balance between art, bonnets, and motherhood, 2026 feels full of possibility. And if not, I trust the next season will bring its own lessons and creativity.
I’m glad you’re here.
With love and bonnets,
Carrie
