As the year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the changes and intimate moments that have shaped my last twelve months. It’s been a year of endings, beginnings, personal growth, and creative pursuits.
Saying Goodbye to Alton
In March, I made the bittersweet decision to close Rushmore’s Alton location. That space held so many memories and marked an important chapter in both mine and the boutique’s story. While it was hard to let go, it paved the way for an exciting new chapter. Relocating the boutique has been an incredible adventure, and I’m thrilled to see how Rushmore is growing in its vibrant new community.
Trust and Transformations
This year brought so personal challenges and opportunities to grow. The construction process for the new boutique took longer than expected, and while that came with its frustrations, it also offered me a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live slowly. I took each day as it came, savoring quiet moments and appreciating the calm before the storm—or should I say, “store.” This slower pace gave me precious time to spend with my sick pet, offering love and comfort during their final days, and allowed me to embrace a season of reflection and gratitude while leaning deep into my trust in the universe and its divine timing.
A Slower Life
As I waited for the reopening of Rushmore in the Central West End, I promised myself I’d keep a sense of balance along with staying busy. Having experienced a similar divine intervention during the covid shut down, I made sure to carve out time for slow, intentional mornings, incorporating meditation and journaling into my daily routine. This practice has grounded me and has done wonders for my mental health. However, this didn’t stop me from getting a lot done around our house. One of those was creating a craft room in my basement. It’s become a space of inspiration where I’ve refinished countless pieces of furniture, giving new life to old treasures for my home. My husband and I also worked together on building several custom fixtures for my boutique.
Adventures and Connections
This year wasn’t just about quiet moments, though. My husband and I embarked on an unforgettable trip to California, driving along the Pacific Coast Highway. The sweeping ocean views and rugged coastline were breathtaking, and it was so special to share those moments with my best friend and life partner.
Back home, I reconnected with an important family friend, rekindling a relationship that has since brought warmth and connection into my life. I was also lucky enough to be in awe of the breathtaking solar eclipse that I watched from my backyard. A moment of sheer wonder that felt like a gift from the universe.
Evolving Ideas and Sense of Self
One realization that surfaced during this year is my desire to someday grow my family. A choice that at one time was simply a thought, has taken root in my heart thanks to my dear friend Katie and her own journey into motherhood.
In the meantime, I’ve taken steps to refine and simplify my current life. I’ve gone through my closet not once but twice with an analytical eye, embracing the same perspective we champion at Rushmore: building a versatile wardrobe that aligns with the vision of who I really am and strive to be.
Looking Ahead
As I look toward the new year, I’m filled with gratitude for the experiences that have shaped me and the exciting possibilities on the horizon. Rushmore continues to evolve, and I’m thrilled to see where this journey takes us next. Thank you for being part of this adventure—whether you’ve shopped with us, shared a moment of connection, or simply followed along.
Here’s to another year of growth, creativity, and connection. Cheers to 2025!
