It’s been a year of everything—but never just one thing.
As I looked through the statistics, I noticed a pattern: the topics closest to my heart, and often the hardest to write about, either received the most attention or almost none at all. The gallery became the second most visited place—so I know what I need to tend to with love, calmness, and dedication.

While thinking about how to reach more people, I reread something I had written in one of my texts: “You can always do better.” I took it as a sign. But then a second, firmer thought followed: This time, I will celebrate everything. Zebras and Magpies has grown.

I’ve been the zebra and the magpie—occasionally bumping into other zebras and collectors of shiny things. And those who are running the long race while still searching for the peaceful jungle know how much strength (and disciplined rest) it takes to create, to build, and to stay true to your values.

Thank you for every shared word, for the support, and for taking the time to read, to see, and to look beyond. I hope Zebras and Magpies served as a wooden chair on a balcony. I hope you saw yourself—or someone else—on the horizon. And most of all, I hope you felt the love of God, even when it sounded like conviction. Because, as I first thought, I believe we can all do better.

Here’s to slow living, to running races that are worth the effort, and to a world that is slowly—but courageously—saying no to oppression, whether mental, emotional, or physical.

In 2026, I wish for you the freedom to free yourself in the way you feel is necessary; the courage to not be afraid to hear God speaking to you (He’s not a yeller—but He may need to turn down your music or podcast to reach you); and the grace to love fiercely.

We’re not following trends here but here’s a bit of everything’s best, most, and favorite.

Most liked essays:
The Writer’s Sabbath
Slow Down
Men vs. Women vs. Men

Most read essay of the year:
What’s the Purpose of It?

This is one of my personal favorites, along with Men vs. Women vs. Men. Thank you to everyone who took the time to read, reflect, and think through it—and for those who haven’t yet, I invite you to delve a little deeper into the essence of these stories.

Story photo of the year:

Visit the digital gallery here.

Interior inspiration of the year:

Pinterest:

Real life experiences:

Visit InteriorViews and Cureated in 2026 – more interior and design beauty and stories to come.

Drink of the year:

Sorry, matcha! Yes, there’s a glass of water somewhere in the background. 😉

Book of the year:

Verse of the year:

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”
Jeremiah 29:11–13 (NIV)

Song of the year:

Slow Down – Morcheeba

Reminder of the year:

Let us know in the comments what were your favorites in 2025 – Zebras and Magpies or your personal ones.

Wishing you a gentle start to the new year.

With love and respect,