Reflections on 2025

Here it is in February and I hope it isn't too late to reflect on 2025. So here it goes. Last year I worked hard at learning new jewelry making skills. I joined the Let's Make Professional Jewelry group by Alan Revere on Facebook.  I learned a lot but didn't finish all the projects so I will continue in 2026 and hopefully get a certificate. 

In my personal life I sadly said goodbye to my beloved little kitty Lavinia - we really called her Bitty or Little Bits or Bitster. She had a lot of nicknames. She had CKD ( Kidney Disease ) and I made the heartbreaking and regrettable decision to euthanize her. I am still not at peace about my decision. I feel her and see her everywhere. I loved her dearly. She was the first cat I ever had and she was so good she made it easy. My little friend and companion for nearly 13 years. I made a tortoiseshell bracelet to wear in her memory and I knit a kitty to resemble her. I took advantage of counseling with Lap of Love and they gave suggestions to help with grief but really don't. I just have to feel the pain and keep moving regardless.

And part of my grief over my kitty is that I missed the signs of her disease because I wasn't well. I had a severe attack of vertigo which only lasted a few moments but I thought I was dying. It felt like I was falling in darkness and stars. It then changed quickly into constant spinning. After 3 days of spinning and being sick to my stomach I reluctantly went to the ER. I got some medicine and then followed up with my Nurse Practioner. She assured me it was probably a virus and I would be better soon. It changed from constant spinning to swaying like I lived on a boat. But a month later I wasn't better so she suggested seeing a specialist. The appointment took 2 months and in that time I did my own research.  I realized I had BPPV which is vertigo caused by loose crystals in the ear. I saw the specialist and he did the Epley Maneuver to me which didn't help. I did the maneuver on my own a few times but nothing made it go away. Time itself seemed to be the only cure and I am feeling better now. I saw a physical therapist and exercising really helped my confidence and mood. Its been a whole year but I think I am finally recovered. 

Overall I am looking forward to 2026 since last year was a hard one. Should I reopen my shop? I would like to reopen and share new designs with you. I would be so grateful if you signed up for my newsletter or followed me on Instagram. Thanks so much - Darlene