As the calendar turns and we head into a new year, I wanted to take a moment to pause and reflect.

This year brought amazing moments, wild places, unforgettable animals, and most importantly, incredible people.

It brought calm days and hard days.

It brought chaos and stillness.

It brought moments where everything aligned, and moments where patience was the only option.

We crossed oceans.
We waited out weather.
We searched when nothing showed.
And we were rewarded when the ocean decided to open its doors.

There were trips that tested us and trips that flowed effortlessly.

There were days that drained every ounce of energy, and days that filled the soul back up completely.

That’s the nature of this life, and it’s something I’ve learned to respect more deeply with each passing year.

More than anything, 2025 reminded me why I do this.

I do it to share the wild, honestly and respectfully.

I do it to help people experience moments they’ll carry for the rest of their lives.

I do it to tell the real stories, not just the highlight reel.

And I do it because nature, the animals, and these places still have so much to teach us, if we slow down long enough to listen.

To everyone who traveled with us this year…

Thank You.

Your trust, curiosity, patience, and sense of wonder are what make these expeditions what they are.

To everyone who followed along through trip reports, Wild Minute videos, blogs, and stories from the field: thank you for being a part of the journey, even from afar.

Your support means more than you probably realize.

As we step into the end of 25’ and prepare for what’s next, I’m carrying a deep sense of gratitude.

Gratitude for safe returns, for shared laughter, for hard-earned lessons, and for a year that reminded me just how lucky I am to live this life.

We just want to say thank you.
For the support, the trust, and the shared adventures.
Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season. Eli & Mari

We’ll take a short pause now, to rest, to reflect, to be present with family, before the next season begins.

The journey continues.

Just at a different pace for a little while.

Here’s to closing out 2025 with gratitude, clarity, and respect for everything the year gave us.

Happy Holidays, wishing each of you… Love and Light!