A year of building a home, growing a business, and rediscovering what truly matters.
Finding Peace in the Chaos: My 2025 Wrap-Up:
This year has been loud, quiet, exhausting, peaceful, overwhelming, and deeply meaningful—all at the same time. I spent most of it building a life from the ground up on our new acreage, making sure the kids and I had a place that felt like home. It wasn’t always easy. Becoming a solo mom again came with a whole new rhythm to learn, but that rhythm slowly turned into something beautiful.
Out here, I’ve learned to pause again. I’ve learned to stare at sunsets from my kitchen window and let them soak into my bones. I’ve learned to be present, to enjoy the crackling of a bonfire, the laughter of kids running in the yard, and the joy of doing less, but feeling more. The goal became simple: live a basic, meaningful life and show the kids what really matters—connection, kindness, and appreciation.
CHAP-OH: Where Purpose Meets Community:
CHAP-OH was a huge part of that journey. My goal for 2025 is to reach 200 orders, and as I’m writing this, we’re sitting proudly at 181. I’m optimistic we’ll get there (or pretty close)—and to me, that’s already a win.
But what really filled my heart this year wasn’t just selling hats. It was meeting people. It was giving away caregiver gifts. It was seeing strangers become friends through conversations that started with a simple beanie or ball cap. As a disabled woman, I truly believe I’m here to use my story to help others feel seen, proud, and supported. Whether someone buys a hat and wears it with confidence, or I run into them on the street and get to share why CHAP-OH exists—that connection is the soul of this brand.
And for that, I’m so grateful.
Growing Forward:
I’m closing the year with two adventures:
✨ A family trip with the kids and my dad,
✨ And a solo trip to visit a very good friend—something I haven’t done in a long time.
Both feel like perfect ways to celebrate how much has changed, how much I’ve grown, and how much joy is still ahead.
2026 is already shaping up to be big. I’ll be starting a new journey as an insurance advisor, while continuing to grow CHAP-OH. I’m excited (and a little nervous!), but I’m ready. Most importantly, I’m preparing to launch a non-profit to provide mobility equipment for those who need it most. More details are coming soon, but just know: this is the beginning of something impactful.
To everyone who supported me, bought a hat, shared a post, or simply encouraged me this year—thank you. You’ve helped build more than a business. You’ve helped build community, hope, and opportunity.
Here’s to a new year of connection, storytelling, accessibility, and bold dreams.
🧢💚
— Amelie
Founder of CHAP-OH and Proud Disability Advocate
2 comments
One word you could use to describe 2025 is a year of resilience. Since I first met Amelie and heard her story on my podcast The Sit Down Stand Out Show I’ve been in awe of her work ethic and resilience no matter what’s going on in her business or personal life she makes the happiness of her kids the top priority while taking time to give to those in neec. Amelie your a strong, beautiful person inside and out I wish you all the success in the world in the new year and Beyond your friend The Rolling Dragon Benen Dykstra
Wow Amelie you have made a difference for people with disabilities, making them visible and that they matter too. Your hard work is appreciated. You’re a great mom and are always looking for ways to make things better for everyone. Keep up the great work. Love you 💕