Showing Up for 2026

I am not someone who typically makes New Year’s resolutions, and this year will be no different. Instead, I like to take some time to think and reflect on a big theme from the last year.

This season, I have been reflecting a lot on my relationships and how I show up for them. In previous years, I had been working on reciprocal relationships. There were relationships that seemed one-sided on either end—either I was always the one reaching out, or the other person was calling me only when they needed assistance. I wanted more clarity and intention around how I was showing up in relationships with others, as well as with myself. I can say with full certainty that the work was a success. My friendships blossomed, and I cannot say enough about the amazing women in my life. I swear, one day I’m going to buy a huge plot of land and build tiny houses for all of us to retire in.

In working on my relationship with myself, my own marriage fell apart. I had married for the second time in what can only be described as a whirlwind. We had been together for four years, and after some time apart due to… let’s call it poor choices, we decided to reignite our relationship and get married. I believed that this time our life would be different—that he would be as present as I was and that our life would be full of adventure and love.

It was a year of firsts: we bought a beautiful waterfront cottage, we got married, we travelled, and we spent time together—and then all of a sudden, it stopped. I still can only guess at what happened. He started drinking again (he was sober when we married), he stopped calling or texting me when he was away (he travelled for work), and when he was home, he wasn’t interested in seeing me (we did not live together).

Through all of this, I was still showing up—trying my best to show up for us, but also showing up for myself. I was committed to my own self-care. I had turned 50 and committed to things that may seem silly to some but were important to me. I committed to getting my hair done regularly, going for a pedicure more than once a year, and continuing my commitment to my health and fitness.  Within this commitment I got to know myself a little bit more and you know what I really like this fun, friendly, sensitive, kind and sometimes quiet girl.

In January, when we had a phone conversation and he ended our marriage, I was devastated, of course. However, I was also in the best place I could have been. When I blinked past the tears, I saw this amazing group of women holding me up. It was the women in my life who showed up—literally on my doorstep with hugs and food, phone calls and text messages, memes and emails. My mental and physical health were strong, and I was in a really good place with my career, my finances, and my relationships.  Most importantly I was in a great place with myself, who I had become and who I was becoming.

The work I continued to do to stay mentally healthy—sleep, meditation, being outside, along with good food and exercise—kept me grounded. The work I do to maintain healthy relationships with my friends and family continues as well. These are the things that kept me moving forward and prevented me from completely falling apart. Don’t get me wrong—it was hard. There were many days of tears and anger and lots and lots of big feelings, and they still happen sometimes. However, I was never alone in those big feelings, and I know I never will be.

I have also found strength in this support to be there for others in my life when they have gone through similar things. I don’t always know what to do or what to say, except: “I’m here for you if you need anything.”

So, 2026 is shaping up to be a big year for this girl. I have commitments to keep. I’m still getting regular haircuts—about every two to three months. I’m still getting my regular pedicures every three to four months (got one today). I’m doing my best to make smart choices with my diet. Workouts and yoga classes will always be part of my life. My daughter and I have a trip planned in April, and I have a big hike planned for September with some amazing women (more about that in a later blog). My relationships will continue to blossom, flourish, be meaningful and joyful. And to those I love and cherish, you will always know: “I’m here for you if you need anything.”

As for love and romantic relationships, I’m not sure I’m there yet. My life is so full of joy, light, and love that I’m not sure I have the space—or even the desire—for that anytime soon. Also, have you tried online dating? YUCK!!! At this point in my life, my commitment is to myself and the relationships I have now. Isn't it true that you find things when you aren't looking for them...

Happy New Year and reach out to those you love.  2026 is going to be GREAT!!!!