1. Embracing a Slow Start to January

Each January 2nd, I find myself overwhelmed by a flood of emails filled with fitness tips and ambitious resolutions. Everyone seems eager to dive back into work and fitness routines, while I feel unprepared for such high energy until spring. Two years ago, I resolved to reject this pressure and this year, I took it a step further. I maintained a holiday pace until Epiphany, which I consider the true end of the festive season. After January 6th, I continued with my established health habits and focused on simply doing my job rather than frantically planning the year ahead. Interestingly, I found myself advancing more in my career this year than in any year when I meticulously strategized.

2. A Solo Valentine's Day Celebration

Valentine's Day has never been my favorite, often marked by disappointments in past relationships. This year, however, I decided to change that narrative. I treated myself to my first dozen red roses and savored a cozy meal of Chinese takeout at home. It was a delightful experience, one I had never had with a partner before, making it all the more special.

3. Discovering My Voice on TikTok

After much deliberation, I ventured onto TikTok, where I found that engaging directly with the camera was daunting. However, encouraged by my therapist, I began using my voice rather than just writing. The journey has been a roller coaster, gaining me 25,000 followers in a few months while also confronting some negativity online. While I faced challenges, including being shadowbanned for my feminist content, it was a valuable learning experience.

4. My Nephew's Successful Heart Surgery

The most uplifting moment of the year was witnessing my nephew triumph over his open-heart surgery. This experience filled me with immense joy and gratitude.

5. A Life-Altering Realization

Witnessing my nephew's surgery just before my 47th birthday became a poignant reminder of life’s fragility. I made a commitment to myself: if he recovered, I would shift from merely enduring life to truly living it.

6. Revisiting Old Memories with New Ones

Returning to a familiar physical therapist's office dredged up painful memories of past relationships. To counteract this, I revisited those places, creating new, happier memories by enjoying meals and experiences that lifted my spirit.

7. Treating Myself to Takeout

After my Valentine's Day feast, I began to see takeout as a delightful treat rather than an indulgence. This summer, I embraced the joy of enjoying food from my favorite Thai restaurant.

8. A Fun-Filled Summer for One

Before my birthday, I decided to have a picnic by the river, marking the beginning of a summer dedicated to my own enjoyment, even in solitude. This became a cherished routine.

9. Prioritizing Fun

Growing up, I often felt that enjoying myself was irresponsible. This year, I made a conscious effort to break that pattern by creating monthly bingo boards filled with fun activities. This approach helped me embrace joy in little ways.

10. Embracing Solo Hiking

Throughout June, I took to the trails alone after years of hiking with others. Despite initial fears, I equipped myself with safety gear and ventured out, finding the experience to be both thrilling and beneficial for my mental health.

11. A Birthday of My Own Design

This year, I decided to spend my birthday alone, a radical choice for someone accustomed to accommodating family schedules. It was a bit lonely, but ultimately fulfilling as I did what I truly wanted.

12. Dedicating Myself to Physical Therapy

After another knee injury, I returned to physical therapy and worked diligently on strengthening my core. The experience was tough, yet it improved my overall fitness, setting me up for a healthier 2024.

13. Wearing a String Bikini

I chose to embrace my body as it is, leading me to purchase a string bikini—something I had never dared to do before. Sharing this on social media was a significant step for me.

14. Purchasing Daisy Dukes

This year, I overcame my long-standing shame about my thighs by buying a pair of short shorts, planning to wear them publicly in 2024.

15. Transforming My Outdoor Space

I have always dreamed of a peaceful outdoor area. After some effort and investment, I began to create a tranquil space on my porch where I could enjoy mindful meals.

16. Completing Major Yard Projects

This year, I finally built raised garden beds and an outdoor fire pit, significant projects I had long wished to undertake.

17. Experiencing Joyful Moments

In July, I realized how happy I was, a stark contrast to the previous summer's depression. This newfound joy was a healing moment, revealing the progress I've made.

18. Conquering Fears to Explore New Places

Determined to visit the Blue Pool in the Pacific Northwest, I faced my fears of hiking alone in the mountains. Though challenging, the experience was rewarding and unforgettable.

19. A Solo Road Trip to the Coast

After two decades, I took a solo road trip to the Pacific coast, enjoying a refreshing getaway that was much needed amidst life's challenges.

20. Embracing the Power of No

This year, I chose "NO" as my guiding principle, successfully asserting my boundaries even when it was uncomfortable.

21. Healing from Past Relationships

As I reflected on my mental health, I realized I was no longer afraid of my ex. This newfound strength allowed me to confront my fears and embrace healing.

22. Publishing a Personal Essay and Photography Project

I was honored to write a deeply personal essay and complete a photography project for Lived In. This opportunity helped me process my journey in a meaningful way.

23. Professional Growth

Despite not setting specific work goals, I experienced significant growth in my career this year. My audience expanded, creativity flourished, and my income increased, marking a proud moment in my writing journey.

This year has not been without its hardships, but I celebrate each of these twenty-three moments with gratitude. I hope you also reflect on the good that came your way this year and that 2024 brings even more reasons to celebrate.

Y.L. Wolfe is a gender-curious, solosexual, perimenopausal, childless crone-in-training, exploring these experiences through writing, photography, and art. You can find more of her work at yaelwolfe.com. If you love her writing, leave her a tip over at Ko-fi.

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