2023 reflections and intentions for the new year
In reflecting back on 2023, it feels like a blur. Often I think we feel this way because the end of the year can be pretty hectic. With our house fully under construction, things were pretty disrupted (and still are). Room by room, we packed things away, prepped areas for work, and pared down our living/sleeping areas. The family room is now complete but we went without a kitchen for several months just as the weather turned. It was definitely a year of survival mode!
But when I look back at last year’s post, I realize that I did really focus on slowing down - at least in ways that I could control - and for that, I’m proud. It has taken me a long time to get here. To really sink into my new life, to embrace more boundaries for myself in the pursuit of inner peace. And I’m still a work in progress.
It meant taking long breaks from social at times. Saying no to certain trips or events. Being ok with doing nothing some days. And also finding ways to save my sanity while our house has been overrun by contractors, noise, and chaos as we rebuild it.
There were lots of dates with myself (and sometimes the dog!) - trips to gardens, the coast. And I started a new page solely dedicated to my writing. I have been writing poetry for years within my journal, but 2023 was the first year I put it out into the world. It was so liberating! I love it so much that one day I plan to self publish a small collection. I’m still figuring out how to merge these two brands. Both are me - and I find it hard to maintain two separate socials, etc. especially on my own. A goal for this year is to refine and get clear on this. Perhaps that means combining them in some way. And exploring additional ways to get creative with things (ie. publishing a poetry book, journal and/or, quotes). I’ve also been exploring brand coaching and what it would mean to run a side business for myself helping other female / small entrepreneurs with their brand presence and messaging.
Little by little, pieces of myself and my life are coming together. Our vision for the house is within reach, and we have all that we need to get where we want to be. But it is not without patience and perseverance. There were days when I really struggled. I feel like our first year of marriage has been put to the test by this big thing (and bless my husband for dealing with and helping us through this massive remodel!). We haven’t quite settled in yet, and I’m longing for the day when we can finally relax a little and enjoy this home we’ve built. The beauty of knowing your spouse for a long time though is that we have already been through so much together that I know we will get through this, too. And it will make us stronger.
There were some great memories made in 2023. With everything going on at the house, we didn’t get to the European honeymoon I had envisioned (!), but we still had an eventful year. I spent a lot of time with my family which I’m so grateful for. A few fun girls trips with my mom and sister-in-law. Saw several concerts including Kane Brown and Old Dominion. Went to wine country with friends, Mendocino, and back to Clemson for a fun college trip. We spent time in Tahoe with dear friends making special memories (like getting my first tattoo!). And I spent time in my garden over the summer. The backyard was my oasis for most days, and I loved cultivating a wildflower garden. Progress was made on the house including the family room being completed, kitchen countertops and cabinets installed, as well as all framing completed for our upstairs primary bedroom and bath.
And yet the biggest transformation and test of all is coming. In 2024, we will be welcoming a new little addition to our family!
We are so excited for this next chapter! But I am also nervous/anxious. Even though I’m craving calm and newborns don’t really help that cause (!), I feel like my pregnancy has forced me to slow down and put things in perspective. And I’m just so grateful to be at this point in my life - sharing in this time with my family. I have an amazing support system and know that baby will be so loved!
2024 is going to be so full. We have some milestone birthdays, the birth of our child to look forward to, and getting our house back! So many wonderful things to experience and dream about. I am not doing the traditional intentions this year because I know it is going to be a year of transformation, growth, and settling into new norms. Perhaps being gentle with myself is the greatest goal for now. Having grace with new motherhood, where my work/writing takes me, and handling all the changes ahead.
One thing I know to be true - change is constant. But we don’t have to be afraid of it. Instead, we can embrace it. We are always becoming - and that is beautiful!
Happy 2024! Thank you for being here.
xo,
