Teresa Marie Wellness

This first image is an old photo, dated early July 2016 as I was just about to turn 40. But it popped in my head today as I was feeling reflective this first Monday of January 2026, the year I turn 50.

I remember the day it took this photo, the caption was “This is a good life.” But I also remember what I was struggling with as I approached a new decade. I was single, just out of a messy break up, broke, burnt out on blogging, completely unsure of what was next.

But I was in Mexico with dear friends. I was fit, strong, energetic and full of optimism.

The last 10 years have been incredible and I was able to achieve all the things I wanted that day. And today, as I stare out into the great wide open, I struggle differently.

I am not as strong as I was, I have gained nearly 20 lbs and my age is showing physically and emotionally. Perimenopause has hit hard these last few months. I get tired easily, have less patience and motivation than ever and I go from sweaty to freezing a dozen times a day. All these combined make it easy to retreat and hard to put myself out there.

But life is still good. Very good.

So in the spirit of the new year and setting a vibe for 2026, I’m not setting traditional goals but making a promise to myself. I promise not to retreat. Not to surrender to 50 but to conquer it. To show up as the version of myself that I am today. And to say yes, and to continue to explore, discover and grow. To choose vitality over stagnation every-single-day.

I am never going to be as young as I am today. I do not want to let insecurity be the reason I miss what this next chapter has to offer. 💛

The 2nd image is now. Post spin class. Unfiltered me, finished with this Self-Pep-Talk and ready to take on 2026! 🌟

I mean… when you get to set the dress code for your first holiday vendor market, why not make it sparkles and gold heels? ✨

I love what we’re building with 💛

Huge gratitude to from and from for their inspiration and collaboration in bringing this event to life.

📸 you are a magician with that camera of yours, so grateful for your sponsorship!

🧥 .spiridakis your coat understood the assignment 😎

2 years ago today 💛

I did not know I could love you more than I did that day. And here we are. I love you. I love our pets. I love our tiny house and our huge cabin. I love our life and all our easy adventures. You’re the absolute best Ben 💛

Happy anniversary babe!