Jessica de Vreeze

Sunday, March 29, 2026

From the Dallas airport lounge.

Sometimes I just can’t believe life.

As I had the post reposted by my friend on Instagram, A Sprinkle a Day, in mind — a Barbie sitting in a war background saying, “Anyone interested in learning how to make sourdough?” (literally as the rest of the world is falling down) — I was juggling with my own reality.

This being said, I’m not complaining — very grateful for all — just retelling facts. ( photos in the end of the post)

Some months ago, my husband booked a holiday for our son and us during his school spring break. And yes, he did ask me, but I was so absorbed finishing the preparation of my LV solo show and my Miami solo show that I brushed it off with a “yes, great idea,” before realizing he had booked the trip during the last four days of my Miami MIFA show — meaning also the deinstallation, etc.

I kind of panicked and felt the bad mood coming, and really did not look forward to it. Plus, I had traveled a lot for work and personal reasons, and felt the need to barricade myself in our home for longer (even though I do love traveling — and I’m not complaining — I hope to keep it that way).

That being said, it was not fair to our son. We had already canceled our end-of-year vacation plans, as family matters required us to stay home. And our son had initially planned that end-of-year 2025 trip one year in advance, in detail — so it was not fair of me to cancel this one.

However — what a mess in my head.

Leaving this past week meant moving two weeks of work (admin deadlines, etc.) ahead, and pushing the work that would be needed in real time to nowhere. Yes, it meant canceling some of my planned goals, and a feeling of missing out on opportunities.

I’m so used to choosing to put my priorities last — and for a fact, I will always put my family first — but I can’t keep canceling myself anymore.

So I try to work around everything, and sometimes push myself to exhaustion — as many moms do — to have it all done in time.

This time, no matter what, I had to let go.

Accept to delegate. Pray for all to go well — and thank G it did, because I was in good hands. And I had to accept canceling some of my work goals and plans.

The deal was also for me to work while on vacation. And yes, I did — a little. But I also used this time to enjoy my family, take a break, and appreciate the almost non-existent network around me, the nature, the space… to discover other art and take photos — and somehow be inspired for what I’m doing next.

So yes, I’m grateful for this time.

Even though the return home will be hard (it always takes a few days to get back into rhythm and catch up), it reminded me that things that matter happen when they need to.

Also — we were in Taos Ski Valley, and:

I was so impressed by the resilience and hard work of the people there to make the season last until the end of the week. The temperatures were so high, the snow was slushy, icy, and melting — and everyone kept their cool and good mood. So kudos — and so inspiring. A reminder that when you want to make it work (if nature allows), you can — and that you can do much with “little.” We had time to visit Taos Pueblo and Arroyo Seco — so much art. Did you know Taos’ population is about 25% artists? And did I mention Walter Ufer and Amery Bohling (discovered at Parsons gallery)? I’ll do another post. Also — me dragging my husband and son to every museum, gallery, and even airport art (yes, there is art in airports — and I love it). (And to manifest wishes into reality — I do want to see my work in an airport someday soon. Need to get to it.) For the past few months, I’ve been trying to get back into physical shape — and skiing is one of the sports I love and that always does a great deal for me — so that was a bonus. The silence and tranquility — we were almost alone on the slopes and in the village. And we love Alpine Suites — they are great. If you go, make sure to look at the two fabulous paintings by Walter Ufer in the 1920s at the Blake Hotel.

Voilà — that’s all for now.

I could go on and tell you more about Ernie Blake, who built the station, and why Taos Ski Valley has such a strong European vibe — and why we love it so much.

Lastly, I want to thank Cesar again for the deinstallation, and our daughter who came back between classes to open the door for the art delivery. And of course, my husband and son — for all of it.

And a special kiss to our two daughters, whom we missed immensely this week.

Wishing you all a beautiful week ahead — and I hope you enjoy some of the photos here.

As we are heading into Passover next week, I wish all who celebrate: Chag sameach. And for those observing other faiths — a meaningful Good Friday and all that is held next week.

And of course, never far from my mind, sending prayers for our family and the people of Israel — may they find back their uninterrupted nights — and may the people of Iran find their own peace too. Always a word for all those fighting to preserve our freedom and safety, and may we see less antisemitism and hate around the world.

Last week, I saw a post from a Jewish woman sharing that her plane neighbor spoke hateful and antisemitic words to her and her baby — to their faces — before a flight they had to share for several hours. Normally, I would praise that someone “spoke their mind openly.” However, this is not “anodin” in this case. We should instead ask:

Why does someone carry so much hate toward a specific group of people without knowing them? What gives them the entitlement to express it this way?

It’s not right.

So if you can — each in your own way — play your role toward no hate, no antisemitism, and more light and love.

With love, and light, always,

Jessica (aka Hopeje)