In 2023, I finally did not move apartments. I solo traveled to Lisbon and Paris and London, and was rejuvenated by very full alone time. I dyed my hair red and reminded my friends that changing hairstyles is actually really fun. I became an aunt to an incredible little boy named Charlie. I spent a lot of time with my family. I went on a trip to Philadelphia with my mom. I continued writing this newsletter even when it felt like I had nothing to say. I deepened my friendships and reignited ones I thought were lost. I went on a girls trip to the Poconos. I adventured around my city on foot, on bike, and in a car. I took a mental health leave from my job because I was too burnt out to carry on as normal. I started seeing a therapist in person, which meant leaving my apartment more. I was called a fashion icon by a coworker. I sat in human shit on the subway. I SAT IN HUMAN SHIT ON THE SUBWAY. I cried a lot, a lot, but almost always felt better after those tears. I threw a Galentine’s dinner party and affirmed my love for my friends. I watched my brother become a dad and my parents become grandparents and my sister become an aunt. I won a union contract. I got Covid again and am still angry about that. I celebrated my 28th birthday in Portugal and made a lot of new work friends. I learned how to bake a baguette and sharpened my knife skills. I saw Beyoncé perform in the best concert of my life. I saw a lot of doctors. Like last year, I was ghosted twice, but this time by two different guys. I watched my cousin and oldest friend get married. I helped plan my best friend’s engagement. I was interviewed for five different jobs, and did not receive a single offer. I hosted get togethers at my apartment. I watched my nephew take his first steps. I ate amazing meals all over the world. I played Wordle and Connections every morning. I read 25 books. I walked 1,069 miles and did 72 sessions of yoga. I learned to be my own support person and more importantly, to ask for help when I needed it. I loved myself even if I didn’t love every second of this year.
And, I can’t wait to see what 2024 has in store.