NYE 2023: Thank you, Next!

Wow, what a year! So incredibly full.

We got our own place & rebuilt our lives. We experienced layoff after layoff…literally. We started a garden that ended up being one of my most proud accomplishments of the year. She (the garden) gave me so much solace & perspective. Taught me acceptance & patience in the most honest but gentle way. Having that kind of adventure with Bradley was everything. I played outside a lot this year! I frolicked in the flowers every chance I got. In April I set out to meditate every morning & start my day that way. I was battling anxiety & depression without the means to seek help & I NEEDED to do something. So I did. I still start my day that way & I cannot begin to express the way it has utterly changed my life. The peace, clarity, & power it has given me. Absolutely rewarding. I didn’t think I was capable of doing that on my own. That being said, ya girl still got a long ways to go 😅

We adopted Dahlia, who has been the brightest beacon of light in furry obsidian void form. She’s the most interesting, loving, & fun creature. I’m so thankful that we get to be her humans. The weather was brutal this year. Hoping it’s not a new norm 🤞🏻

We spent so much time with loved ones. We really got our rounds in & made it a point to just make the time. It was a beautiful, beautiful thing. TO ALL MY LOVES, thank you for making time & space for me this year. You have no idea how much I needed it.

While working the worst job I’ve ever had, I took a chance and applied for a job I didn’t think I qualified for & I got it. It’s been the coolest, most incredible & rewarding experience. This opportunity has restored hope in dreams I thought I lost & damn near gave up on. It has sparked joy & helped me regain my confidence…even though I still battle imposter syndrome from time to time. 😅

I was really into funk, psychedelic rock, & instrumental this year. The Renaissance album carried through strong though. You won’t break my soul & I’m telling everybody!

I watched some great shows this year. My top was by far, Reservation Dogs. Favorite Movie, Barbie of course!

I kept almost all my promises to myself this year, only leaving a few things I’ve started unfinished. Progress!

I had the best holiday season I’ve had in a very long time. My first family was together for the first time in almost 10 years. It gave me a feeling I can’t describe & is hard to understand if you don’t know our story. It was one of the best gifts of the year. Christmas was jolly & bright!

There’s so much I could say about Bradley. He is my haven. I fell so much more ridiculously in love with him this year. He continues to teach me, inspire me, & show me unwavering support. He makes my soul sing. For him, I am the most thankful. 🤍

I spent the year reflecting on each month & keeping my promise of continuing writing. It has been such a comfort & a teacher. The only NYE tradition I’ve kept over the years is sitting down, reflecting, & writing about the year. I’m so proud & grateful to have shared my year with you. To those who have followed my monthly recap posts & encouraged me, I appreciate you. It’s been such a pleasure 🙏🏻

My advice for myself & others this new year is to stop & be present. Make the time. Drink water. Read the ingredients. Don’t text & drive. Be patient & forgiving. Try new perspectives on for a spin. Do your research. Eat well & adventurously. Play outside. Keep learning new things. Rest without guilt. You deserve it! Love yourself. & Always Be Kind.

Happy New Year everyone! May it be blessed.