2019 learnings + epiphanies.
2019 was challenging year in some ways. For all the uncomfortable moments I experienced, I can honestly tell you that I am completely at peace as the year comes to a close. It was a year of accomplishment even if that means just surviving another day. The highs include speaking on a panel at Facebook HQ, taking an international trip to London and Paris with our kids, landing a really big, national client at Oak Street Social, taking the girls to Broadway in New York, finding myself at SALT Fitness and celebrating our creative talent, my work family, by hosting our very first holiday party. My heart is definitely full and I look forward to a new decade with all of you. And if you’re new here, you can read my 2018 learnings here. It’s an annual thing!
Here are my thoughts on the past 365 days...
(in no apparent order and still based on my opinion only)
I need to tell myself that I am a BADASS more often. Short story here. My husband was working with his business coach and he told me that when asked what his wife was like, he replied “Oh she’s a total badass. Owns her own business, etc.” I remember when he told me this story in the summer and I snorted because it was flattering and sweet of him. Well, I forgot about that story up until two days ago when he reminded me. It really made me think - I need to start believing I am the BADASS that my husband believes I am. And his opinion counts the most. Thank you Jack.
This year was a year of health scares and health realities for myself and so many people I love. I don’t know who needs to hear this but…you’ve got one life. Take care of your health physically, mentally and emotionally. Be proactive.
Continue to be kind as we enter a new decade. Being kind feels good and we all want to feel good!
Ask for help and take it. This is the first year that I hired an intern for my blog and it’s been a blessing in so many ways. I was drowning.
Yellowbird hot sauce is my new obsession. Buy it and thank me later. <thanks for the box of goodies, friends>
Jack and I were talking about friendship the other day <lot of self reflection going on lately?!> and I remarked that the people I call my friends are truly the best friendships I’ve ever had in my life. I feel so fortunate.
Don’t give up. August through October were really trying for me professionally. I thought I might never climb out of it and one day I just decided enough was enough. I couldn’t throw away years of hard work in building a business because of a bump in the road. <not that that was an option but it was a dark moment for me.> I didn’t give up and it was 100% worth it.
I am so glad that oat milk exists and that it is now at almost every coffee shop. Thank you oak milk gods.
You know what sucks? Car accidents. Thankfully no one was injured.
Despite eating a couch leg, I can confidently say that I think Eloise is turning out to be a lovely pup. I guess she didn’t like that couch print.
I am so scared for 2020 elections. Scared to be beaten over the head with campaigns, social media, opinions…the list goes on. Seriously, can we get a woman in there?
You should rent Marriage Story. Then go hug your significant other.
The Jonas Brothers are even more adorable in person. And by adorable I mean, dashing good looks. Really dashing.
This whole CBD movement - I am not sure what I think. I’ve tried drops and gummies and I feel relaxed but it didn’t rock my world.
Stop apologizing for the way you look or your hair or your outfit. We didn’t notice. Stop being so hard on yourself and learn to embrace and love YOU.
Also related…stop apologizing because you’re a woman. Speak your mind, be direct, be polite but stop apologizing for owning your truth. Just say what you mean.
To my darling daughters: No, I do not think you are fat. Wherever did you come up with this notion? You are perfect.
To my darling husband: I am proud of you and you know why. Look at you go!
My husband bought a Peloton bike. I’m excited but also a little skeptical.
Slow golf clap that the IG community is returning to creativity vs worrying about likes. I am here for this change.
2020 might gift us a miracle. Last February we started our room renovation and it was halted numerous times. We finally signed a new contract and I am hopeful that I might actually get rid of my ugly, blue carpet.
Also related…please pray for our family that we don’t all kill each other living in construction with one bathroom.
My grandma turned 100 in November and when asked what she learned she replied, “Not much.” Proof that none of us really know what we are doing in life. Ha!
I thought I had celiac disease and I don’t. Bless up.
This is a big one. I stopped saying “yes” to everything and everyone. It takes a lot of practice but I am finally in charge of my calendar, my life, etc and it is glorious.
My friend told me she is doing a dry January. Honestly, it doesn’t sound that bad. December is rough, man.
Excited to continue the trend of traveling more with our kids. Next stop Portugal! Traveling to Europe this year was easily one of the best decisions we ever made and it was a lot easier thank you think!
Make sure you take the time to fall in love with your partner again. I was just remarking to my friend the other day that I love my husband now more than I did 10 years ago.
Work to get uncomfortable every day if you want to see any real progress. I always joke about the fact that I am ALWAYS uncomfortable but that’s where the real growth happens.
I think I need to start using neck cream.
Check on your friends that seem like they have it all together. They don’t.
When do kids stop talking about poop? Asking for a friend.
Tell people you love them as much as possible. Read: I stifle my friends and family.
I can no longer swear or spell things out because my kids are too damn smart. Ugh!
Edit your life ruthlessly and only do the things that truly spark joy. Easier said than done but I practice it everyday.
Hey, if you do something really cool - celebrate it! I have a friend who is publishing her first book, I have friends who are making TV appearances, starting businesses. Celebrate life and share. We wanna know!
It’s okay to say “no” because you aren’t willing to work for free anymore. Your time is valuable. Again, be polite.
Invest in less and remix more. Moving to a black & white wardrobe was the best fashion decision I have ever made.
Ask people how their day is going. You might be the only person who has in a long time.
Sometimes people just want to be right and I think it’s okay to let them be if it means you don’t have to sacrifice your own happiness. I really go out of my way to avoid battles these days.
Honestly, Impossible Burgers are not that good. And they have a ton more calories. Did you know this?
Turn up your music and do that car seat dance. Who cares if people are watching.
I hate to admit this experiment was a flop but I am sorry to report that clean deodorant really doesn’t work. And yes, I gave my pits time to get acclimated. Or I am just smelly. I’d like to think not but I digress.
WHAT DID YOU LEARN THIS YEAR?
Enjoy a safe New Year's with your loved ones.
Wishing you the best and thank you for following along on this journey with me. xo
I typically draft and publish this post before the close of the year with a long, laundry list of things I learned about myself and others. It’s quirky. It’s sarcastic. It’s authentic. And, it’s a nice summary of self growth and truisms about aging gracefully. (not just the physical kind)
And if you’re new here, you can read my 2021 learnings here. It’s an annual thing!