Happy Friday, which is National Fruitcake Day (I’m neutral, but I’ve never really had a homemade one. Maybe next year I’ll make one? and day two of what House Russell calls Sloth Week. It’s the week between Christmas and New Year’s when we try to do as little as possible. I’m writing this from my sofa, wrapped in my blanket and watching the Devils play the Hurricanes.
This should be the final “wrapped” because it’s the final Friday 5 of 2024! Let’s gooooooooo!
- What’s the best thing you read this year?
I didn’t read much this year. I set a goal of 30 books and only read 21. My phone is filling most of my spare time, which is terrible. I had a few five star books this year but I think my absolute favorite was Family Lore by Elizabeth Acevedo. It was a magical, lush, and beautiful story of sisters, mothers, nieces, wives, daughters, and cousins. Of magical powers that can only take you so far, leaving your heart with the hard work of finishing the job. - What was your best purchase this year?
The patio set so I can work outside. It improved my work-at-home quality of life tremendously. And even on days I didn’t work outside (heat, meetings, etc) I’d have breakfast out there before work. I often say I’m the best version of myself in the summertime, but I think I’m actually the best version of myself when I get enough sunshine. - Which cloud had a silver lining this year?
All of our clouds were pretty solidly cloudy this year. But I’ll continue the work-from-home theme. It’s no secret I miss the office, and I miss going to work and I’m probably one of a handful of humans who wants things to go back to the way they were in 2019. However, this year I think I finally leaned into the benefits. From working outside, to working regularly in a coffeeshop, to using fragrance and lighting to make my work area lovely, I’ve had more good days than bad ones. We may have let go of the office (although in a strange twist of fate, we’ll be having our monthly all staff meetings in a conference room in the building until April) but I’m in a better place now. - When in 2024 were you happiest?
When I was traveling. I love home, but I also love to leave home (see above re: WFH) and it was a fantastic travel year! WDW, San Diego, Seattle, Sleepy Hollow, and WDW again made for a happy me. It’s looking like 2025 will be fun as well. - What would you like more of, and what would you like less of in 2025?
More: Beach time, success/recognition at work, writing/creative endeavors (love my priorities there)
Less: Rain, aches & pains, screen time
I hope you get to have a day of Slothing before the year is out. Devils are up 3-2 in the second period!
