2023

With the year coming to a close, I’m finding my brain cluttered with thoughts.

Thoughts about how the year went, what I hope next year will bring, and various other aspects of my life. Does this happen to anyone else? I’m sure it does. After all, it is the time of year we typically see year-end wrap-ups and declarations for the New Year.

I used to make myself lists, writing goals for what I wanted to accomplish. I haven’t done that in awhile. I’ve sorta dropped the ball for myself, letting many things fall to the wayside as I seem to go about life as Groundhog Day. I’m not sure when that happened exactly. My guess would be around 2020 when the world went upside down and rattled us all pretty good.

So, to keep things simple—and realistic—I’m opting out of that. No pressure on goals, just wishes. That’s what I want for myself next year. The ability to take in more of the small moments, to cultivate a life I’m truly, whole-heartedly fond of, not just living through. I’m going to spend way more money than I should on seeds for my garden and grow lavish, odd varieties of fruits and veggies that I can’t buy at the store. I’m going to read more, because I barely read a thing this year; I did discover some pretty decent non-fiction audiobooks though! Cooking more from scratch and as many new recipes as I can. And I’m going to soak up every single moment to the best of my ability. Because, I’m tired of sleepwalking through my life, it’s time I live it.

And now, I can hear you saying, “But, Rion, this is a list.” And, I suppose you’re right in a way. Except, I’m not going to be checking things off as accomplished. My plan is to take hygee to the next level and expand it to every corner of my life—not just during the bleak winter months. I think that’s something we should all strive for.

I also think I’m finally going to start posting on my garden/”homestead” instagram. I might live in the middle of town where I can’t have any chickens—eye roll at the stupid law citing that—but I sure can create a modern homestead lifestyle wherever I am. And I want to share that journey with you. I think it’d be fun. And maybe, just maybe, I’ll start painting again. And take more pictures.

Okay, I lied. This is a list. It totally is. BUT! No pressure. More of a reminder to put on my rose colored glasses and linger a little longer on the small things.

I hope each and every one of you choose to do the same for yourselves. Because, you’re worth it. Your dreams, are worth it.

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and a very Happy New Year! (and 33rd Birthday to me! Wahoo! Cheers *clink*)