November Reflections: A Year of Hardship, Purpose, and Unshakable Hope

As December arrives, I find myself moving a little slower, breathing a little deeper, and paying closer attention to the things that truly matter. December has always been a sacred pause for me a moment to reflect, reset, and realign before a new year begins. But this year, this pause feels different. It feels heavier, more tender, and also more meaningful. 2025 has stretched me in ways I didn’t expect. It stretched my business, my patience, my energy, and my spirit.

Pop-up markets have been slower than ever so far. Foot traffic has dropped. And the unknowns surrounding international tariffs brought a kind of stress I wasn’t prepared for.

As someone who partners with Nepali artisans, these tariff uncertainties impact not just my business—but real people. Women and families whose livelihoods depend on the handcrafted goods we bring to the U.S. Not knowing what the future holds has been difficult, and there were many moments when the weight of those unknowns sat heavy on my heart.

Still, even in the hardest moments, my purpose never left me. In fact, it became louder.

The hardworking Nepali artisans—my sisters, my community—are the reason I refuse to give up. Their skill, their resilience, and their commitment to preserving culture through craftsmanship keeps me going. They remind me that this work is bigger than numbers, bigger than profit, and bigger than any challenge the year could bring. They are why I continue to show up, even when it’s hard. They are why I am willing to ride every wave, even when the tide feels rough. And they are why I know that someday, I will be teaching others how to walk this path too.

Because I’m learning. Every single day.

A New Dream Taking Shape

This year also brought an unexpected blessing: the opportunity to co-write a business book with 11 other incredible individuals. Writing a book has been a lifelong dream of mine, but I also knew I wanted to understand the process before writing my own. So, I partnered with this amazing group and it has been one of the most inspiring projects of 2025.

We poured our hearts, experiences, and insights into this book. I am so excited to wrap up the year with this achievement, and I truly hope you will support and read this book when it is released. Writing it has reminded me that dreams do not expire; they simply wait for the right season.

A Season of Giving, Even in the Busy Seasons of Life

December has also become a month of intentional giving for me. For the last four years, I have dedicated this month to serving the seniors in our community and more. And even though life feels full—running Namaste Brows and Boutique, working as a Business Advisor for MCCD, and being a mother of two beautiful children—I still felt called to continue this tradition.

The Annual Holiday Party for Seniors this year is on December 15th from 6:00–7:30 PM at Roseville Senior House

We are still seeking donations and volunteers. Warm socks, chocolates, hats, gift cards, small gifts of love—anything helps. If you feel called to give back this season, please reach out to me directly. I can only do more because of your support, generosity, and love. The community we build together is what keeps these events alive year after year.

You’re Invited: Our First Holiday Market

Before the senior event, I’m thrilled to welcome you to something special:

Holiday Market at Namaste Brows and Boutique on December 5th from 5:00–8:00 PM

Enjoy 20% off your entire purchase as our thank-you for supporting small businesses. Come shop local, celebrate handmade goods, and spread joy during a season that needs it more than ever.

As I reflect on this year—its hardships, its lessons, and its small victories—I feel grounded. Grateful. Stronger than before. Some years are meant for harvesting, and others are meant for building roots. This was a root-building year.

I am ending December with hope. Hope for the last few weeks of the season. Hope for the year ahead. Hope for continued growth for my business, my artisans, my community, and myself.

If you’ve read this far, I want to leave you with a gentle call to action:

Support small. Support handmade. Support purpose-driven businesses. Support community. And as you support others, do not forget to support your own dreams too.

Your purchases make a difference. Your donations make a difference. Your time makes a difference. You make a difference.

Thank you for showing up for me, my artisans, and my community. Thank you for believing in this work. Thank you for helping me end this year with gratitude and strength.

With love, purpose, and deep appreciation,

Jeena