Happy 2026!!!!
This new year is especially significant to me. I am starting the year as Anna Worden rather than by my married name, and I am also nearing a landmark birthday. I’ve never been good at setting traditional New Year’s Resolutions or such. I do find value in focusing on a theme and arcing intention this year.
For this year, my theme is to embrace and celebrate myself. My broader aim is to move beyond survival mode and into a period of growth.
Connections – Which of my readers are authors?
As I think about this year and what I hope to grow, I find myself reflecting on how much I value connection. This is particularly true of my many readers who have followed along for years. This year, I want to grow these connections. Starting off:
Over time, I’ve learned that a good number of my readers are also writers. Many of you have reached out to me with thoughtful questions about history, clothing, and millinery while working on your own projects, and I’ve always been glad to help where I could. What I’ve realized, looking back, is that I didn’t always take the next step and ask about the books themselves.
That’s something I’d like to change.
If you are an author, I would love to hear about your work. If you’re comfortable sharing, please leave the title of your book (or books) in the comments. I find myself in a place where I want to read more of what others have written. I’d like to fill my 2026 reading list with authors I know, supporting your work as you have mine.
Edit: I am starting a Good Reads “shelf” of writers I know.
What’s ahead in 2026:
Coming in January – Many have been asking for 1870s and 1880’s hood patterns. I am listening! I am currently working on an 1870s Light Wool Hood Pattern. Initially, I wanted to have this pattern ready for New Year’s Day. I’ve really pushed myself through recess to get it done for you. But, this hood is just too darling to rush. It will be available sometime this month with 2 sizes and a doll size. Of course, paid Patrons will have access to this pattern here.
Coming in February – I have my first program of the year scheduled at the Wehle Gallery at the Genesee Country Village & Museum. I am looking forward to sharing often overlooked or mis-identified Pen Wipes with visitors, including a make-n-take option.
Bergère Hats – I will begin sewing Bergère hats as soon as I finish the pattern mentioned above. I want to do my best to make a hat for everyone who wants one for this 250th year.
I do have additional plans that I am not quite ready to share. I will as soon as I have them more firmly in place.
If I Had My Own Blue Box: 
Loving oneself is not selfishness, it’s survival! Congratulations on realizing that focusing on yourself is a great thing and here’s looking forward to a great new year.
My book – “Eliza’s Story.” Available on Amazon under Eileen M. Hook.
I’m working on another one “The Supercargo” which is biography/novel. Though I’m having trouble making it a novel.. dialogue is hard!!!
Thank you for sharing your book!
I agree. Dialogue is hard to write.
Thanks for leading the way into 2026 with your plans for new projects. I appreciate the inspiration and need the motivation! I also appreciate your asking about those of us who are writers. I saw Eileen’s post above and can vouch for her power as an engaging storyteller. I feel sure I have asked you for expert advice on a millinery question in the past. I have two historical fiction novels in my Strong Sisters series: Redheaded Angel (Royal Fireworks Press), set in 1862 Virginia; and Mami of the Mountain (Neverland Publishing), set in 1885 North Carolina’s Appalachian Mountains. I am working on the third which includes some interesting time in June of 1863 Gettysburg. All the best in 2026. Happy sewing and reading.
Thank you for sharing your books!