And just like that, we’re getting ready to close out 2021.

It’s hard to believe we’re here again. Like a lot of people, I tend to look back at the end of the year and make a list of everything I’m going to do better: eat healthier, work out more, stay in touch, write more blog posts, call more often—the list goes on.

This year, though, I’m trying something different.

I’m going into 2022 with a little more realism.

I’m one person, and there are only so many hours in a day. I can keep eating as well as I do now. I can keep making time to work out. I can make more phone calls thanks to hands-free technology in the car. And when it comes to things like writing more blog posts, maybe the answer isn’t finding more hours—it’s finding a little help.

Running Dusty’s Originals means wearing a lot of hats before I ever get to make one.

I’m the designer, maker, and finisher, which is the part I love. Then there’s ordering materials, searching for quality American-made supplies, social media, computer work, accounting, cleaning, and everything else that comes with running a small business.

I think you get the idea.

I didn’t hold a Black Friday sale this year because the cost of nearly everything I use to make my hats has gone up. I haven’t raised my prices, and I hope I won’t have to. My goal has always been to offer quality work at a price that still feels attainable.

I’ve also been incredibly grateful for the retailers who carried Dusty’s Originals this year. I’m selective about the shops I partner with because I want them to be more than places that simply sell products. The best ones create an experience, understand their customers, and believe in supporting independent makers.

Small businesses need that support more than ever. If you have a favorite local shop, boutique, artist, maker, or restaurant, show up for them when you can. A purchase, a recommendation, a social media share, or even a kind word matters.

As we move into 2022, my wishes for all of us are pretty simple: happiness, love, peace, health, and the ability to be realistic and kind to ourselves.

We can only do what we can do. Sometimes that has to be enough.

Thank you for supporting me, my work, and Dusty’s Originals. I’m grateful for every person who has worn one of my hats, shared my work, stopped by to say hello, or trusted me to make something special.

I’m looking forward to seeing what 2022 brings.

And just like that—Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

— Dusty