Quarterly Reflections / Q1 2025

One of my intentions for the year is to pause and reflect each quarter. Not just on Pure Luxe, but on life.

And… the first quarter of 2025 was a lot. Understatement, I know.

Nationally, globally, personally—things have felt uncertain, heavy, and just plain exhausting. So it felt a little awkward to sit down and reflect. But I’ve learned how beneficial it can be, even briefly.

Research supports it too: intentional reflection, especially during high-stress times, can act as a buffer against burnout and despair—by reconnecting us with what’s working, what matters, and what needs care.

As I tried to summarize the past few months, I kept coming back to this: the ways we care for ourselves and each other aren’t luxuries—they’re a kind of gentle, vital resistance. A reminder of what can sustain us.

Things like Rest. Ritual. Beauty. Inspiration. Connection.

They help us stay human. They remind us who we are when the world feels wobbly. And how much we need each other.

So, here’s a look at my notes from January, February, and March. The things that helped me move through the quiet of late winter—naturally a time for rest and reflection—and feel a little more grounded, open, and connected. Maybe something here will resonate with you, too.

What grounded me

• A painting class—play and creativity are still essential
• A workshop on the ancient Koshas—a new way to explore wellbeing
• A ‘hygge’ retreat with a beautiful group of women—deep support and presence
• A webinar on regenerative gardening—a reminder of nature’s intelligence
• Reading—others’ stories and insights are an incredible balm

What invited connection

• Long walks and good talks with friends
• Sitting in circle with wise, kind women—holding space and being heard
• Art, talks, performances, shared meals—with heart-centered people
• Celebrations and small moments with family and loved ones
• Laughter and humor—absolutely essential

What supported my body + energy

• Infrared sauna, herbal tinctures, deep-tissue massage
• Slowing down—even when it felt inconvenient
• Mentors offering fresh perspective—reminders to work smarter, not harder
• Routines with more softness, less pressure
• More sleep, more rest

The Thread

The thread running through it all? Connection.
Small, meaningful things that helped me stay connected—to myself, to others, to the moment at hand.

In a world that asks us to hustle, to harden, to fight or to worry—sometimes choosing rest, appreciation for beauty, and meaningful care is a valid and necessary form of resistance.

Your Turn!

I’m curious: 

What’s been carrying you through?
What rituals or relationships have grounded you? 
What brought you a sense of steadiness, gratitude, or connection?

I'd love to hear.

“Here's to the bridge-builders, the hand-holders, the light-bringers—those extraordinary souls wrapped in ordinary lives who quietly weave threads of humanity into an inhumane world. They are the unsung heroes in a world at war with itself. They are the whisperers of hope that peace is possible. Look for them in this present darkness. Light your candle with their flame. And then go. Build bridges. Hold hands. Bring light to a dark and desperate world. Be the hero you are looking for. Peace is possible. It begins with us.”
— L.R. Knost

Walks to Deluxe for chai

Women's Circle 💗

Watercolor class at Wilson's

Deer resting in the backyard

Love from Jasper

First green in the gardens

This is the first in a series of quarterly reflections I’ll be sharing here and with my email community. My hope is that it becomes a soft place to pause—a seasonal check-in to take stock, share what's been meaningful behind the scenes, and offer something grounding, thoughtful, or simply human for your own journey, too.

Thank you for being here! 
Love & gratitude,