End of Year Reflections: Creativity, Family & Resilience in 2025……..

My Honest End-of-Year Reflection on Business, Family & Creativity.

It’s almost Christmas and the end of yet another year—where does the time go? This time, I felt drawn to write something a little more personal rather than focusing on interiors.

I’ll be honest: it hasn’t been a great year for my little design business, and I truly hope things turn around in 2026. It’s been tough for so many small businesses, including our farm. We run mostly merino sheep, and with the wool industry experiencing a real downturn, that’s added another layer of pressure.

I know it sounds like a broken record, but the cost of living, the economy, interest rates, and—specifically for interiors—rising building costs have all had a huge impact. I also run a couple of Airbnb’s, which have been hit hard too, with far fewer bookings this year. To keep my head above water, I’ve had to take on other work—work that isn’t quite as exciting—but I know many of you can relate to this in some small way. I try not to let it get me down… but honestly, could the universe ease up just a little?

Through it all, my love of interiors and creativity still runs deep in my veins. If you’re creatively inclined, you’ll understand—this passion never truly leaves you. It’s also been incredibly important for my mental health. And don’t even get me started on menopause… oh boy, what a smack in the head that’s been!

In July, I decided to embark on an Art Appreciation course—something to keep my brain ticking over and my love of art alive. It brought me right back to my school days studying HSC Visual Arts. I also saw it as a way to improve my writing, which I’ve been really enjoying lately. My grammar still isn’t perfect, though—thank goodness for Word and ChatGPT! The course explored not only art and interpretation but also history, from the Renaissance right through to modern day. I loved it and finished with flying colours 😊. I’ve also dabbled in a bit of painting again. I’m certainly no Monet, but it’s been so fun to explore.

My husband and I have five children between us, all now grown—aged from 19 to 25. It’s such a gift watching them become the amazing adults they are. My eldest is building an electric guitar from timber, my youngest and his partner have just bought their first home, my stepdaughter is absolutely nailing her law/arts degree, my stepson is taking on the farm with incredible drive and a real passion for sheep genetics, and my youngest stepson is about to head off to uni in the big smoke. I’m so incredibly proud of all of them.

Even when business feels tough, these are the things that keep us grounded. One thing I’ve learned from my husband is how to roll with the punches. He truly is my best friend—keeping me grounded and not too nutty.

I really do hope my little business thrives in 2026. I also hope this Substack grows and becomes a place where I can connect with others who resonate with me and what I do. For me, interiors aren’t just about making things pretty. They’re about creating a home—spaces that are comfortable and beautiful, and that help you connect with your partner and your family. That’s what it’s all about for me. I design with love, with heart, and with the desire to share that with others in my own down-to-earth and friendly way—backed by experience and plenty of creativity of course.

I’m wishing everyone the merriest of Christmases and a wonderful, prosperous 2026. May it bring success, abundance, and good health for us all.

Much love,
Kiri 🤍