As I sit down to reflect on 2024, I’m overwhelmed by how transformative this year has been. It’s taught me lessons I never expected—lessons about slowing down, appreciating the people I hold most dear, and finding joy in the small moments. Life, as unpredictable as it is, can shift in an instant, and my year started with a jarring reminder of that. I’m ready to Thrive in 2025.
The Life Lesson I’m Now Grateful For
In February, I welcomed my fifth baby into the world. It was the easiest birth, and I felt like a pro by this point. What started as the most relaxed and joyful week with our new baby girl quickly turned into the scariest. Complications after birth left me fighting for my life. At one point I remember laying on the hospital bed praying to God that I could just hug my kids one last time. (Still brings tears to my eyes) Thankfully God answered my prayer, however, that experience has left me forever changed.
It’s hard to describe the clarity that comes with facing your own mortality. As I recovered, I found myself holding my children closer, cherishing their laughter, and soaking in their chaos with a gratitude that had never been so raw. I’ve learned to slow down and savor moments with my husband and children. Time is fleeting, and 2024 made that clear in a way nothing else could.
After that near death experience I felt like my creativity had died too. I went into survival mode and wondered if Whimsy North was even going to make it. Knitting felt so frivolous compared to everything else in life. Thankfully taking some time to heal helped and I realized that God gave me the gift of creativity and wants us to create. That’s my new guiding light as I move into 2025. Sharing my gift with others just for the sheer sake of bringing them joy.
Happy 6th Birthday to Whimsy North
February also marks another milestone in my life: Whimsy North, my little knitting corner of the world, will turn six years old in 2025. I can hardly believe the journey this small business has taken me on. What started as a spark of an idea has grown into something beyond my wildest dreams. I’ve designed 58 knitting patterns over the past six years, and every time I scroll through my Ravelry designer page, my heart skips a beat. Each design represents countless hours of creativity, passion, and perseverance.
Life hasn’t always made it easy to grow this business. Between having three babies and starting a new full-time job, then getting a big promotion, there have been times when I wondered if I could keep going. But the drive to create, to share my love of knitting with others, has always been stronger than the obstacles.
Creating is more fun when you have someone to share it with.
One of the most incredible parts of this journey has been the people I’ve met along the way. In 2022, I connected with Katie from Summer Camp Fibers, and our partnership and friendship have been one of the brightest lights in my life. We’ve shared ideas, collaborated, and supported each other through the ups and downs of running creative businesses. Someday, we’ll make good on our dream to meet up in our favorite place—Disney World. Katie, if you’re reading this, get ready for all the castle selfies!
What’s ahead – Thrive in 2025
Looking ahead to 2025, my heart is full of hope and determination. Mine and Katie’s slogan for the year is “Thrive in 2025.” We want to lean into our creativity and create fun, whimsical knitting patterns and yarn that reflect our personal style.
For years, I struggled to find knitting patterns that spoke to my heart, and that’s what inspired me to start designing. Now, I want to bring that same joy and connection to others. I’m also committed to staying consistent with blogging and offering helpful knitting content and free patterns to my community. Sharing my knowledge and love for knitting has become a cornerstone of Whimsy North, and I can’t wait to do even more of it in 2025.
Knitting has been a part of my life since I was six years old. It’s more than a hobby; it’s a lifeline, a source of comfort, and a way to express myself. My goal is to help others fall in love with it just as I did. Whether you’re picking up needles for the first time or have been knitting for decades, I hope Whimsy North can be a place of inspiration and connection for you.
2024 taught me that life is precious and fragile. It reminded me of what truly matters: family, faith, health, joy, and living with intention. As I step into 2025, I’m carrying those lessons with me. I’m ready to thrive, to create, and to keep sharing this beautiful journey with all of you.
What about you? What are you most excited about in 2025? How do you plan to “Thrive in 2025?” I’d love to hear your goals, dreams, and plans. Drop a comment below and let’s inspire each other to make this year one to remember. And if you’re not already following along, now’s the perfect time to join me on this journey. Let’s make 2025 a year of creativity, connection, and thriving together.
Thank you for sharing your personal story, Margaret. It helped to highlight how our health is paramount and how very fortunate we are when we have good health.
My goals include prioritizing my health and facing some fears. Knitting is food for my soul and a large part of my wellbeing. I look forward to continuing to challenge myself with new patterns and projects.
Thank you for sharing your gift of creativity. You are very talented and I look forward to your new designs.
Best wishes for a healthy and happy new year.