Misses, Gains, and Everything in Between....

 

Looking Back at a Full Year

As the year comes to an end, I find myself looking back at everything it brought—work, travel, people, lessons, joy, and a few heartaches. It wasn’t a perfect year, and it wasn’t always easy, but it was a real one. A year where I showed up, learned, and kept moving forward in my own way.

Some days were busy and loud, others quiet and slow. Together, they made a year that felt full.

Work That Kept Me Going

This year, my work with wildlife awareness continued to give me purpose. Visiting schools, speaking to children, interacting with forest staff, and working on conservation-related activities reminded me again and again why I started this journey.

Not everything happened quickly. Some things moved smoothly, others took patience. There were meetings, permissions, follow-ups, delays, and waiting. At times it felt tiring, but every small step mattered. Change doesn’t happen overnight, and this year taught me to respect the process and stay committed even when progress was slow.

Jungle Belles grew steadily—not just as a travel initiative, but as a space for learning, sharing experiences, and building respect for nature and wildlife.

Time in Nature

Being in forests, grasslands, wetlands, and mountains remained my biggest source of peace and grounding.

Some days gave me unforgettable wildlife moments; other days offered only silence and long waits. But both were meaningful. Nature taught me patience, calm, and acceptance. Standing behind the camera, waiting for the right moment, reminded me that not everything can be rushed—and that sometimes, just being present is enough.

Nature didn’t just offer sightings; it offered perspective.

Family and Friends

Home remained my comfort through everything.

Spending time with family, watching my daughters grow, sharing meals, conversations, and everyday moments became the most precious parts of the year. These simple times brought balance and reminded me what truly matters.

Friends added warmth and colour to the journey. Some stayed close, some drifted away quietly. I learned to accept that people move in and out of our lives, and each connection has its own time and purpose.

Every shared laugh, every small celebration, and even the ordinary days mattered more than I realized at the time.

Taking Care of Myself

This year also reminded me of the importance of taking care of my body and mind.

Returning to fitness wasn’t about appearance—it was about feeling stronger, healthier, and more balanced. Some days were tough, some days felt rewarding. I learned to listen to my body, respect its limits, and move at my own pace.

Progress was slow, but steady—and that felt enough.

Loss and Learning

The year also brought loss—painful and difficult. Some absences still feel heavy, and some emotions are hard to put into words. Loss changes you. It slows you down, makes you reflect, and reminds you of how fragile life is.

Through these moments, I learned to be gentler—with myself and with others—and to hold on to memories with gratitude rather than regret.

What I Missed and What I Gained

I missed slowing down more.
I missed being fully present at times.
I missed some people who are no longer close.

But I gained clarity.
I gained strength.
I gained a deeper sense of purpose in what I do.

I learned that growth often comes quietly, without announcements.

Moving Ahead

As the new year approaches, I don’t carry big resolutions or expectations.

I simply want to continue doing meaningful work.
Spend more time in nature.
Protect my energy.
Value people and small moments.
And live a little more mindfully.

This year had its ups and downs, its lessons and pauses—but it shaped me in ways I will carry forward.

And for that, I am truly grateful.