A New Era

Goodbyes Are Bittersweet!

Happy New Year—and HAPPY 2-YEAR ANNIVERSARY!! Two years ago, on January 25th (my birthday), I posted my very first Close Friends: a place where I could share more openly—personal thoughts and updates, beauty products and trends I love (and don’t), opinions (mostly beauty, plus other things), and in-depth tutorials. Close Friends has become my safe space. I don’t feel pressure or judgment from you guys, and while I’m generally pretty private, this community has felt like such a gift—something deeper than what most platforms offer. So THANK YOU for being here with me for two whole years—that’s a long time!

I’ve changed and grown so much in that time, SO MANY ups and downs, and big life stuff that have brought me to where I am now: 42, and finally feeling the perks of my 40s. I’ve grown out of a lot and am feeling way more grounded and comfortable in my own skin. When I turned 40, I thought I’d have it all figured out—Pssssht, not my experience. After a few more speed bumps—ha!—I feel more ready for whatever comes next. I’m SO GRATEFUL for the last couple of years of lessons and self-exploration, which brings me to the REAL point of this post: A New Era.

2025 has truly been a year of letting go—of shedding what no longer fits. One of the biggest things I knew I needed to leave behind was my chapter at Striiike. But I don’t want this to sound all dramatized, because the truth is the decision has come with so much lightness—and even a bittersweet spark of joy.