Showing Up for 2026 – A Country Girl’s Guide to Living Fully
From patterns to porch swings—2026, I’m all in!
Hey everyone! Welcome to a brand new year—2026! There’s something magical about flipping the calendar and feeling like you’ve got a fresh start, a clean slate, and a whole year ahead to grow, explore, and live with intention. This year, I’m not chasing perfection. I’m not setting resolutions that feel like chores. I’m simply showing up.
Showing up means being present. It means honoring my dreams, my body, my relationships, my space, my finances, and my spirit. It means living with purpose, even when life gets messy. It means choosing joy, even when the laundry pile is high and the to-do list is longer than a summer day in Georgia.
So grab something good to drink, settle in, and let me share how I’m showing up for 2026—and maybe you’ll feel inspired to show up for your own beautiful life too.
Showing Up for My Dreams
This year, I’m giving my dreams the spotlight they deserve. I’m working on launching my Indy Pattern Company – Sew Southern Style, a passion project that’s been simmering in my heart for years. It’s time to share my love of sewing and design with the world, one pattern at a time.
I’m also pouring love into Down Home at Dee’s, my lifestyle blog that’s all about country living, creativity, and connection. I want it to feel like a front porch chat—warm, welcoming, and full of heart.
And let’s not forget The Country Girl’s Store! I’m building it into a solid online and craft fair business, where handmade meets heartmade. Think rustic charm, creative soul, and a whole lot of country goodness.
Showing Up for My Health
I’m treating my body like the home it is. That means drinking more water (yes, even when I’d rather have sweet tea), eating more fruits and veggies, and cooking meals that feel good and do good.
I’m using my gym membership on purpose—twice a week, no excuses. I’m stretching daily to become more flexible, and I’m tackling the 52 Hikes Challenge with my adventure buddy, Tigger. Nature is healing, and I plan to soak up every trail, every sunrise, and every moment.
Showing Up for My People
Life is richer when it’s shared. I’m carving out intentional time for friends and family—because those moments around the table, swapping stories and laughter, are the ones that matter most.
Whether it’s a Sunday supper, a spontaneous coffee date, or a long phone call with someone I love, I’m showing up with my whole heart.
Showing Up for My Space
My home is my sanctuary, and this year I’m giving it the love it deserves. The basement is getting a glow-up (finally!), and I’m staying on top of household chores—not out of obligation, but as a way to care for my space.
I’m creating the front and back yard I’ve always envisioned—think cozy, welcoming, and full of life. And I’m following a daily schedule that brings structure and peace, because rhythm is a form of self-care.
Showing Up for My Finances
Money matters, and this year I’m being intentional. I’m paying off debt, staying disciplined with spending, and putting money aside every paycheck. I’m living within my means and finding freedom in financial clarity.
It’s not about restriction—it’s about empowerment. Every dollar has a purpose, and I’m making sure it aligns with my values.
Showing Up for Myself
I’m working on my One Little Word project, a yearly tradition that helps me stay grounded and inspired. This year’s word? Explore. It’s a reminder to Explore Every Day Life, now, fully.
Want to see how I’m weaving my One Little Word into every adventure? Discover how I’m bringing it to life—read the full story now.
I’m also making time for the hobbies I love—reading, sewing, photography, photo journaling (hello, Project Life!), woodworking, and crafting. These aren’t just pastimes—they’re lifelines. They connect me to joy, creativity, and myself.
Showing Up for Adventure
2026 is the year of exploration, and I’m diving headfirst into all things Virginia! I’m on a mission to visit every Virginia LOVEwork sign—snapping photos, collecting memories, and celebrating the charm of each unique location. I’m also marking off every Virginia State Park on my list, soaking in the beauty of trails, lakes, and mountain views one weekend at a time.
But that’s not all—I’m tackling the Solo Adventure Challenges book and the Virginia Adventure Bucket List Challenge, turning solo living into a celebration of courage and curiosity. And for a dash of history, I’m chasing down Virginia Historical Markers, uncovering stories from the past that still shape our present.
I’m planning day trips, exploring new places with Tigger, and finding joy in the journey. Whether it’s a roadside diner, a hidden trail, or a quiet moment watching the sunset, I’m soaking it all in.
With Tigger by my side I’m showing up for adventure in every corner of the Commonwealth. Let’s go!
Showing Up for Solo Living
Solo living doesn’t mean lonely—it means freedom, adventure, and self-discovery. I’m embracing it with open arms and an open road.
I’m also leaning into the cozy comforts of solo living—planning meals that nourish both body and soul, setting aside quiet time for reflection and journaling, and creating space for solo enjoyment.
Think cozy movie nights with popcorn and fuzzy socks, slow mornings with coffee and a good book, and evenings spent crafting or simply being still. Solo living is a celebration of self—of knowing what fills your cup and making time for it unapologetically.
Me, Tigger, and the Road Ahead
2026 isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being present. It’s about showing up for the life I’ve been given and making it beautiful, one intentional step at a time.
So here’s to the hikes, the hugs, the handmade dreams, and the quiet mornings. Here’s to showing up—for ourselves, for each other, and for the magic in the everyday.
Let’s do this, y’all.
Ready to Show Up?
Now it’s your turn—how will you show up in 2026? Whether it’s chasing a dream, taking a solo adventure, or simply savoring a quiet moment with your favorite cup of coffee, I’d love to hear about it!
Drop a comment below and share one way you’re showing up this year.
Let’s make 2026 the year we show up for what matters most—together.
Thank you for visiting with me at
Down Home at Dee’s
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