Kisses for the Year We Had in 2025…and the Adventures Waiting in 2026
Wrapped in Gratitude: Thanks for the Love
Thank you to everyone who spoiled me with gifts this year. Every little surprise added a touch of warmth and joy to my year.
It’s such a special feeling to know someone took the time to pick something just for me. Whether it was for my travels, my self-care rituals, or simply to make me smile, please know how deeply I appreciated it.
Thank you for making me feel so appreciated, supported, and seen. Your generosity did not go unnoticed.
Looking Back on 2025: Adventures, Cities, and Moments to Remember
2025 was full of unforgettable experiences, breathtaking sights, and so many moments that reminded me why I love being a touring companion.
Chicago was a city of contrasts, and returning to my hometown made it feel even more special. It was comforting, familiar, and truly felt like coming home. I wandered through Lincoln Park Zoo, learned about Chicago’s history while admiring the skyline on the architecture tour, and felt on top of the world at Chicago 360. Every corner of the city carried memories and energy that kept me inspired even while adventuring.
The magic of New York City was impossible to miss. From a serene Central Park carriage ride to the iconic Statue of Liberty, the city offered both glamour and awe. Broadway dazzled with Chicago and Death Becomes Her, while Aire Ancient Baths offered soothing quiet, and MoMA sparked endless conversation. Of course, I couldn’t resist the sparkle of the Rockefeller Christmas Tree. This is only a glimpse into my New York adventures, and every experience along the way, whether listed or not, has been equally special.
On the West Coast, San Diego offered both peaceful escapes and playful adventures. A sunset sailboat cruise had me glowing in golden light and included an up-close moment with two seals while the San Diego Zoo was full of surprises and smiles. The monkeys? Forever my favorite. They always put on a show.
Visiting Houston again brought such a warm reminder of the memories I carry from that city. Revisiting familiar streets and favorite spots, and catching up with people who have been long-time loves, brought a comforting sense of nostalgia and made me appreciate how much that chapter of my life shaped me.
2025 also took me to LA, DC, Phoenix, and the Grand Canyon for the first time. I’ve been soaking in new experiences, tasting my way through food scenes, and discovering the unexpected all year.
That’s not to discount the love that my city has shown me this year. Las Vegas surprised me in all the best ways. From being completely swept up in The Wizard of Oz at the Sphere to wandering through Enchant under twinkling Christmas lights, the city kept finding new ways to feel immersive and special. I said yes to my first omakase at Wakuda (and immediately understood the hype), explored the Mob Museum’s gritty history, and let live performances take center stage. Cirque du Soleil’s Michael Jackson’s ONE, Mad Apple, and Mystère each offered their own unforgettable kind of spectacle. Add in the playful wonder of Meow Wolf, singing along at a Coldplay concert, and an intimate night at The Magician’s Study, and Vegas became less about excess and more about moments I’ll genuinely remember.
Looking back on all these tours, cities, and moments, I feel so grateful for the laughter, adventure, and connection that made 2025 truly remarkable. 2026 feels full of possibility, and I can’t wait to see where it leads.
What’s Next: The 2026 Journey Begins
As 2026 begins, I’m looking forward to another year of incredible cities, unforgettable moments, and meaningful connections. I’ll be taking a brief two-month pause from travel in January and February to recharge, plan, and dream up some very special experiences for the year ahead. But after that, the adventures resume in full force. From new cities to familiar favorites, I can’t wait to share every moment with those who make these journeys so unforgettable. I’ve made a few changes to my travel plans since my last newsletter so be sure to check the dates.
February also brings my next photo shoot with Taryn Carter. If you’d like to sponsor part of the shoot, I would be incredibly grateful. Sponsors will receive a short personal call from me to say thank you and get a sneak peek at some of the new images before they go public. My wishlists are updated with items that will help bring the February vision to life…and maybe a few treats to make upcoming tours even sweeter.
After the winter break, my 2026 tour schedule kicks off with a mix of classic favorites and new destinations. My calendar fills up quickly so PLEASE prebook as early as possible. If you’re looking for inspiration, you can always check out my date ideas page on my site for suggestions. FMTY and sponsored tours are also available for cities not on the itinerary, so there’s always a way to make a plan happen.
Here’s to new adventures, new memories, and more moments together in 2026. I can’t wait to see where this year takes us!