5 Things for a New Year

Notes from 2025, Refined Denim & Olivia Dean Energy

The past few weeks have felt oddly disorienting, and everyone I talk to seems to be feeling it too. There’s this collective push and pull right now. We are wanting to slow down and savor the final stretch of the year, while also quietly counting down until we can turn the page.

Because of that, I’ve been especially mindful about staying present with my kids. Less time on social media, less time at my desk, and more time in the in-between moments: school drop-off, singing holiday music in the car, cooking instead of ordering out. I know this season with them is fleeting, and even though I’m carrying a bit of end-of-year burnout, I’m closing it out with a deep sense of gratitude in my heart.

2025 felt hard and yet it clarified things in a way I didn’t ask for but needed. I recorded a reflection at the bottom of this post if you are interested in listening.