44 and Still Becoming

A Reflection on Growth, Grit and Gratitude

This month, I turned 44.

And while I could write the usual list of lessons, milestones or “things I wish I knew at 24,” this year feels different. This year feels deeper. Like a quiet exhale after years of holding so much together.

The truth is, my life today looks nothing like what I imagined as a little girl. Growing up, I thought I’d be a housewife. That was the script. That was the expectation. And honestly, at the time, I didn’t know I was allowed to want more.

But here I am. Not just running a business, but building a brand, mentoring founders, speaking on stages, raising two brilliant humans, and planning a whole new chapter for our family.

And yes, doing it all in a way that’s real. Grounded. On my terms.

Against the Odds

I don’t say this lightly: getting here wasn’t easy.

I didn’t have a roadmap.I didn’t have people who looked like me in leadership roles.I didn’t have a permission slip to go off-script. But what I did have was grit. And curiosity. And eventually, the clarity to know that my version of success wouldn’t look like anyone else’s…and that was the point.

I’m proud of what I’ve built. Proud that BloomsYard exists in the world. Proud that Hospitality B is live and loud. Proud that my kids are watching me do work that lights me up.

Because representation matters, not just for me, but for them too.

Motherhood, Business & the In-Between

Both my kids are now in secondary school, which still feels surreal. They’re both becoming more independent, more confident…and as I watch them grow, I’m also learning how to loosen the grip and let them fly.

It’s a strange but beautiful space to be in: Still very much needed, but no longer needed in the same way.

And that shift has opened up new space for me. To dream again. To reflect.To think about what’s next for me…not just as a mother, but as a woman, a founder, a creative.

We also moved house last month – a fresh start that feels symbolic.A new space, a new season. More room for joy. More clarity. And (let’s be honest) maybe just one more cupboard for wine and cookbooks.

Still Becoming

If there’s one thing turning 44 has taught me, it’s this: You’re never “done.” You’re always becoming.

There’s still so much I want to do – retreats to run, women to mentor, businesses to support, conversations to have. But I’m not chasing anymore. I’m building with intention.

At this stage of life, success isn’t about being busy. It’s about being aligned. Doing the work that fills your cup, not drains it. Surrounding yourself with people who see you, not just expect things from you.

And maybe most importantly – knowing you’re allowed to change your mind.To rewrite the script.To take up space.

To Anyone Who Feels Behind…

If you’re reading this and thinking, “I should be further along,”Please hear this:You are not late. You are not behind. You’re just becoming.

Whether you’re 24 or 44, there’s still time. To start something new. To leave something old. To build a business. To be a beginner. To grow into the version of yourself you never thought possible.

I’m 44, and –  in a way –  I feel like I’m just getting started.

And I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Thanks for being here.

B x