Simply Gathered: A Summer Update from My Heart to Yours
“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” – Ecclesiastes 3:1
Balance is one of the hardest things to achieve in life. Whether you’re a working mom, a student, a caretaker, or juggling all of the above, it always feels like when one thing is going really well, something else quietly takes a backseat. That’s motherhood. That’s business. That’s life!
I’ve been reflecting a lot on this lately, especially in this season of growth for Simply Korena. And I wanted to take a moment in this “Simply Gathered” space, our little corner of connection, to share a few updates from my heart.
Business Update: What a Journey!
Since launching Simply Korena, I’ve released two new collections, added multiple handmade products, and attended over 20 pop-up markets (and counting)! 🎉
Stepping into full ownership (after previously having a business partner) has been a growing experience. Making every decision on my own felt intimidating at first, but now, I can genuinely say it’s been empowering. I’ve found my rhythm, and your support has carried me through the learning curves and long nights. Thank you for every kind word, order, share, and hug at markets. It truly means the world to me!
Healing is Not Linear: A Personal Note
Behind the scenes, my health journey has also been unfolding in quiet, steady ways. As many of you know, my physical and mental health have deeply impacted the direction and heart of Simply Korena. Healing hasn’t been straightforward, it’s been more of a winding road with moments of uncertainty and clarity happening simultaneously.
I’m still in the process of finding answers (you can read more in a previous post), but I’m beginning to feel hopeful! Lately, I’ve been choosing to live out what I share with others: slowing down, soaking in the small joys, resting more, reading often, and leaning into the blessings of this little business and the family life that surrounds it.
“Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
The Sisterhood is Expanding!
One exciting new chapter: I’ll be inviting some members of the Simply Sisterhood (my private Facebook community) to contribute blog posts in the coming months! These women have incredible stories and wisdom to share about faith, homemaking, motherhood, healing, creativity, and slow living. I’m so excited for this!
If you haven’t joined the group yet, we’d love to have you. It’s a cozy and encouraging place.
Join the Simply Sisterhood here.
Upcoming Events:
Here’s where you can find me and the Simply Korena booth over the next few months. Stop by, say hi, and shop permanent jewelry or handmade pieces, I’d love to meet you!
- Thursday, July 24 – Wicked Barley Brewery | 5–9pm
- Friday, July 25 – Congaree and Penn (Callahan) | 4–8:30pm
- Saturday, August 2 – Fields of Grace Farmhouse (Lake Butler) | 10am–4pm
- Saturday, August 9 – Ninth Hour Coffee (Macclenny) | 9am–12:30pm
- August 16 – WIC Breastfeeding Event (Callahan) | 9:30am–1pm | Bracelet Making Station
- August 30 – Light of Grace (Macclenny) | 10am–3pm
- September 13 – Old Plank Rd Baptist Fall Market | 10am
- September 27 – Hilliard Harvest Fest | 12–4pm
- October 25 – Callahan Fall Market | 10am
- November 1 & 2 – Roots & Relics (Folkston, GA)
- November 8 – Pine Grove Barn (Lake Butler)
Thank you again for walking this journey with me. Whether you’re a customer, a sister, a reader, or a fellow slow-living soul, your presence here is cherished 💗.
With Gratitude and Grace,
Korena
