As 2023 comes to a close, I thought I’d share this round-up of 23 “things” that have helped me, taught me something and/or brought me joy in 2023. And by “things,” I mean everything from websites to TV shows to books, and of course, experiences with my loved ones - all of which I’m really thankful for. It’s quite a mishmash, but you’ll learn a little about me by reading through it - and maybe you’ll find something that you’re interested in trying.

1.Vegan Recipes (free) 

As a new vegan/vegetarian, I’m constantly on the hunt for healthy and delicious recipes. I’ve found a number of yummy recipes at Cookie and Kate. 

2. Epoch Times (paid)

This is now my go-to news source! I bought a subscription about 6 months ago, and I’m happy I did. I love that the articles are delivered via email throughout the week, and if I don’t have time to read the article, I have the option to listen to the article.

3. Putting Me Together (free)

I was finding it difficult to know what to put together in terms of outfits - clothing, jewelry and shoes. Then, I read a blog post written by Audrey of Putting Me Together, and I’ve been following her advice ever since. She writes frequent blog posts on her website, but also has paid content, too.

4. Wit & Wisdom Jeans ($44 and up) 

One of the biggest takeaways from Putting Me Together has been to buy high quality jeans (I live in jeans!) like the Wit & Wisdom brand. Those of you who know me well, know that I’m pretty frugal when it comes to clothing. But if you buy Wit & Wisdom jeans during Nordstrom’s anniversary sale in July, they are significantly less expensive. 

5. Improved Health Strength Training Videos on YouTube (free)

I’ve been doing cardio and yoga workouts for a number of years, but recently I was reading about the importance of strength training for those of us who are over 40. For the past eight weeks, I’ve been doing 30-minute strength training workouts on YouTube (@improvedhealth), and I’ve noticed a big difference in my upper body strength. 

6. All Creatures Great and Small (free)

I watch very little television, but over the years, I’ve been known to get hooked on a PBS show every now and then. On the recommendation of my librarian friend, I checked out Season 1 of All Creatures Great and Small, and then Brian and I proceeded to watch all three seasons in 2023. Now, I’m looking forward to the premiere of Season 4, which airs on January 7. 

7. Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza game ($9.99)

This one is for my kids, ages 8 and 11, who adore this new-to-us silly card game. To be honest, it’s not my favorite card game, but seeing my kids laughing and enjoying themselves is the best.   

8. Our Winter Garden (cost varies)

My husband has the green thumb in our family, and he’s the one who takes charge of the summer garden. When I asked him about doing a winter garden this year, he said, “Go for it!” so I did. Now, I want to keep it real here - the squirrels and I are battling it out and they are winning for the most part, having eaten all of my lettuce plants! But there are a few broccoli and cauliflower plants that are thriving and so I’m celebrating those little successes - and continuing to spray all natural “squirrel mace” around my plants every chance I get. 

9. Mini Gifts (cost varies) 

I’ve always loved miniatures, thanks to my Mom, and this year, I decided to shower a few friends and family members with miniature items from Etsy. I sent this amethyst pocket angel to my aunt who was battling brain cancer and these smiling yellow suns to my sister-in-law who needed a bit of “sun” in her life. 

10. Photographer’s Edit ($0.24/image)

While I looooooove taking photographs of high school seniors and families, I don’t enjoy the editing process much. Enter Photographer’s Edit, a company started by a photographer, who will color correct my images and return them to me for final polishing in 3-4 days. 

 11. Thank You Messages and Handwritten Notes

This year, I tried to be even more diligent about thanking people for their kind words, for their help, and for their thoughtful gifts - whether it was for me, our kids, or our whole family. Sometimes the thank yous happen via messenger or by email, but I prefer to send a handwritten note. Really, though, just speaking your gratitude is the most important thing. 

12. Bullet Journaling ($10-$20)

I’m new to bullet journaling, but not new to journaling. In fact, I’ve journaled for years and have stacks of notebooks to show for it. My problem is that I can’t find something when I’m looking for it. The creator of bullet journaling gets this, and thus, gets me! I started my first bullet (dot) journal last month, and just having an index in the front and page numbers on every page has made a world of difference.  I’m currently reading this book from the library to learn more. 

13. Creating a Trust (cost varies)

After years of procrastination, my husband and I finally met with an advisor last month who is helping us create a trust. We got off the 2-hour call, and all I could think was “Man, that was a lot of adulting for one day!” {smile} 

14. Dry Bar Comedy on YouTube (free) 

When I need a little pick-me-up, I watch one of my favorite Dry Bar comedians like Jose Sarduy.

 15. Mancala with my Daughter (free)  

I love playing Mancala with my daughter. I remember watching my mom play Mancala with my niece, and now I get to play with my 8-year-old.

16. My Portuguese Ancestors (paid)

Learning more about my Portuguese ancestors has been one of the most exciting and satisfying things I’ve done this year. Ancestry.com helped a ton, as did assistance from a genealogist whose family is also from the Azores.

17. Emails and FaceTime Calls (free)

You should know that I’m not the type who enjoys talking on the phone; I’m much rather text or email - or talk in person one-on-one. This year, I enjoyed emailing with friends who’ve moved out of state and FaceTime calls with my two best friends from high school.

18. Hiking (free)

I’ve always loved to hike, and in 2023, I set out to find a few hiking buddies! I connected with two moms who I walked with once or twice a week after dropping the kids off at school. Now, months later, I look forward to our time on the trails together.

19. I Feel Good About…(free)

A practice I began in early 2023, this has to be one of my favorite ways to end the day. Really, it can be done any time of the day, and though it’s simple, it’s very powerful! Before bed, I jot down three things I feel good about. It can be anything, big or small. As I filled up page after page, I would often reread what I wrote the day before and the day before that. And just like that, I would feel better about myself and my life. 

20. Photographing More High School Seniors ($99) 

I love photographing high school seniors, and before every session, I re-watch Amy + Jordan’s on-location senior session videos! Love their teaching style with specific tips for boys and for girls!

21. The Family Board Meeting by Jim Sheils ($14.99)

This book is a quick read (check it out from the library if you can or buy the ebook for $4.99 here) and contains some great ideas for how to connect with each of your children, one-on-one. 

 22. Costco Runs (cost varies)

My husband and I noticed we were spending quite a bit at Costco last year. Can you relate?! So, instead of making the 30-minute drive to Costco once or twice a month, we now order everything online. You know things like paper towels and toilet paper and peanut butter and syrup - and best of all, no impulse buys! And as long as we spend $75, shipping is free.

23. Playing Pickleball with my Son

Noah and I have played pickleball half a dozen times at local parks, and we both love it! We don’t play by the official rules; right now, we’re just enjoying hitting the ball back and forth. But each time we play, I come away feeling more connected to him and thankful for this one-on-one time.

Things I’m Looking Forward to in 2024

1. Trying out some Minimalist Baker recipes (Thanks to my SIL for the recommendation!) 

2. Reading How Not to Age by Dr. Michael Greger (on the library’s waiting list)

3. Possibly purchasing a used 35mm lens to take video 

4. Cooking with my new non-stick Farberware cookware (Merry Christmas to me!)

5. Traveling internationally with my family (Destination to be determined.)

Your turn: What were your favorites of 2023? And what are you most looking forward to in 2024?