My Summer 2026 Goals/Bucket List

It is nearly summer, and with that comes my bucket list of things I want to do. I'm hoping to do at least 10 of these things this summer, but if I do more, then that would be great.

I want to be more active, creative, more social in life, and I have been thinking about how I want to go about that. This list is what I came up with for this summer. I am hoping I can make this summer more fun, more productive, and more fulfilling than it has been the last few years.

In no particular order, here is what I would like to do this summer:

• Update resume
• Apply for a new job
• Get my bedroom cleaned up
• Redecorate my bedroom
• Donate unwanted items (that are in good condition, obviously)
• Visit the local farmer's market
• Dye my hair purple
• Get a second piercing in each ear
• Learn Spanish
• Learn 1-2 songs on the violin a month
• Make lemon bars
• Learn how to apply my own makeup
• Improve my baking and cake/cookie decorating skills
• Finish decorating retreat scrapbooks
• Bake lemon bars
• Ride my bike 1-2x a week
• Write letters to friends
• Make second t-shirt quilt
• Go to a local festival
• Paint at least 2 pictures
• Make strawberry shortcake
• Do some form of movement at least 30 minutes a day
• Pick up journaling again, and journal at least once a week
• Read 2 books
• Read the Bible every day
• Have a spa day
• Reconnect with my friends
• Take a week-long social media break
• Get to 100% (or as close as I can get) on a video game
• Cook one new recipe a week

The 2 top things I want to do this summer is to apply for a new job, and to get my bedroom cleaned up. I wanted to focus on my health before looking for another job, and I am now ready to get back to working again.

What is on your bucket list for this summer?

My 2026 Goals/Bucket List

I can't believe 2026 is here! 2025 went by so fast.

2025 was an ok year for me. I had a health issue in May that was resolved and have been healthy since then. Family has been good as well last year. I wasn't able to find a job that works for me, either. That is one of the main things that I am working on right now. I hope I am able to find the right job for me soon.

Nothing too exciting went on, but I did get to participate in some fun/interesting programs at the library. I also enjoyed celebrating Thanksgiving and Christmas with family. I am hoping that 2026 is a better year for me.

Throughout December, I had been thinking about what I would like to do in the coming year, and I have come up with a good list of things.

In no particular order, here is what I would like to accomplish in 2026:

• Get my bedroom cleaned up
• Redecorate my bedroom
• Become comfortable/confident in driving, and get my driver's license
• Get a job that I love, that works for me
• Be an STM at a Joni and Friends retreat
• Visit a friend in another state
• Get into a loving, healthy relationship with a significant other
• Improve my baking, cake and cookie decorating skills
• Bake 1-2 times a month
• Create a consistent workout routine
• Learn Spanish
• Do one thing a month that takes me out of my comfort zone
• Go on regular solo dates
• Learn how to better manage my money
• Dye my hair purple
• Go back to church each week (the pandemic caused a break in going, and I haven't been able to go since they've opened back up. I miss going, so I hope to change this.)
• Improve my communication skills
• Reconnect with friends
• Make 2 new friends
• Relearn how to play the violin
• Learn how to play 1-2 songs on the violin a month
• Learn how to play the guitar
• Start journaling again on a regular basis
• Work on writing a book
• Write letters to friends, and send them
• Get a tattoo in memory of my mom
• Get a second piercing in each ear
• Work on becoming more comfortable with public speaking
• Read the entire bible
• Read one book a month
• Keep a prayer journal
• Make second t-shirt quilt
• Learn to sew at least one piece of clothing that fits me
• Go horseback riding
• Take self-defense classes
• Learn how to use chopsticks
• Learn how to juggle
• Do a digital/social media detox
• Go paintballing
• Paint 1-2 paintings a month
• Try lobster
• Go to a renaissance festival
• Learn to write songs
• Knit or crochet 2 items
• Cook 1-2 new meals a month
• Learn how to apply my own makeup
• Get my vision rechecked
• Learn to not care/worry about what others think/say about me

Out of all of these, here are my top five that I most want to focus on this year:

• Get a job
• Get my bedroom cleaned up and redecorated
• Get my driver's license
• Get into a loving, healthy relationship with a significant other
• Go back to church

What do you want to do this year? I hope 2026 is a great year for you!

What I Got for Christmas 2025

If you celebrate Christmas, I hope you had a wonderful day!

I had a good day myself. I spent it with family opening presents, eating some good food and cookies, watching Christmas movies and decorating a gingerbread house kit.

Christmas is probably my favorite holiday, because I get to spend time with family and friends, I get to enjoy one of my passions (baking), and I get to watch my favorite Christmas movies and listen to Christmas music. This is what I enjoy the most during the holidays.

Without further ado, here is what I got for Christmas this year:

• Brother sewing machine
• NeeDoh Nice Cube
• Embroidery stabilizer backing
• Fusible bonding fabric
• Wicked DVD
• Bonanza season 8 on DVD
• Will Vinton's Claymation Christmas Plus Halloween and Easter Celebrations on DVD
• Allegiant on DVD
• Wicked: The Faces & Places of Oz book
• Wicked Emerald City Keychain
• Crochet hook case
• Oregon Trail for PlayStation 5
• Celebrate: Joyful Baking All Year Round by Paul Hollywood
• Set of 3 cookie scoops
• Chocolate Jojo figure (Jojo is Jewel Osco's mascot; I was surprised with this by one of my brothers, as he knows I love chocolate!)

I am very happy with what I got this Christmas and had a good time with my family.

Now, to focus on the new year, and what I hope to accomplish in 2026.

What did you get for Christmas? I hope you had a wonderful day!

My Christmas 2025 Wishlist

It is Christmastime again, and that means presents, movies, holiday food, and get-togethers.

I've already created my wish list for this Christmas, which I've had for probably a month or so. I love to make lists, so I look for ideas of what I want throughout the year.

Here is my wish list for Christmas 2025:

• Brother sewing machine (I was hesitant to put this on my list at first, since it is on the pricier side, but I figured I would put it on anyway, and see what happens)
• Embroidery stabilizer backing
• Fusible bonding fabric
• Crochet hook case
• ThePhotoStick Memory Stick/USB Flash Drive
• Set of 3 cookie scoops
• Crazy Aaron's Transparent Falling Water Thinking Putty 
• NeeDoh Nice Cube
• Celebrate: Joyful Baking All Year Round by Paul Hollywood
• Sweet Tooth: 100 Desserts to Save Room For by Sarah Fennel
• ChristmasLand CD by Jonathan Antoine
• The Oregon Trail for PlayStation 5
• Violin Notes Scale Chart
• Wicked DVD
• Bonanza season 8 on DVD
• Bonanza Season 9 on DVD
• Hawaii 5-0 Season 3 on DVD
• Call the Midwife Season 4 on DVD
• Will Vinton's Claymation Christmas Plus Halloween and Easter Celebrations on DVD
• Essential Technique for Strings: Violin book 3
• The Violinist's Hymnal: Easy Arrangements of Over Seventy Classic, Christian Hymns by Michael G. Kellermeyer
• 3-Tier Heavy Duty Metal Rolling Utility Cart
• Music stand for sheet music
• Violin stand
• Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza card game
• The Art of Getting it Wrong: Finding Good in the Misadventures of Life by Stephen Miller
• Life Without Limits: Inspiration for a Ridiculously Good Life by Nick Vujicic
• Craft organizer tote bag

Well, that is my list. I know it is a lot, but I do not expect to get every single item on this list. These are just things I would LIKE to get. I will be happy with whatever I get this Christmas.

It's hard for me to write a shorter Christmas list, as I don't know what I want the most. So, whatever I don't get one Christmas, I will put on my list for next Christmas, if I still want it.

If you celebrate, what is on your wishlist?

My 2025 Christmas Bucket List

I can't believe it is the holiday season again. The year seemed to just fly by!

I have been thinking about what I would like to do for Christmas, and while most of these things are the same every year, there are a few that are new for this Christmas (like making a t-shirt quilt).

Hopefully, I can do at least half of these this year. I want to make Christmas as memorable, enjoyable, and as beautiful as possible.

In no particular order, here is what I would like to do this Christmas season:

• Drink hot chocolate
• Watch Christmas movies
• Paint 
• Listen to Christmas music
• Sew second t-shirt quilt
• Bake Christmas cookies
• Go to a Christmas festival
• Make an ornament
• Make and send handmade Christmas cards (or send premade cards, if unable to make my own)
• Make paper snowflakes (I haven't done this in years, and would love to make them again)
• Go ice skating
• Build and decorate a gingerbread house
• Make an advent calendar
• Make a garland
• Go sledding
• Put a puzzle together
• Attend a Christmas church service
• Make/decorate scrapbooks
• Paint my nails Christmasy colors
• Make a snow globe
• Make cinnamon rolls
• Do random acts of kindness
• Read A Christmas Carol
• Learn at least one Christmas song on the violin
• Have an indoor picnic
• Play card, board, video games
• Make Christmas ornaments
• Have a spa day
• Do one thing out of my comfort zone
• Work on my baking, cake/cookie decorating skills
• Visit a pottery studio and paint ceramics
• Make a charcuterie board
• Bake an apple pie
• Binge watch at least one season of a TV show

There you have it. My Christmas bucket list for 2025. I am looking forward to the holidays, and what it has in store for me.

If you celebrate, what is on your bucket list? I hope you have a wonderful holiday season!

What I Am Thankful For in 2025

Wow, it's been quite a while since my last post. So sorry about that! 

It is the holiday season again, and I have thought about what I am thankful for this year. I love to make a list of all the things that I am thankful for, as it reminds me of all that I have in my life.

This time of year is also bittersweet for me, as it includes the anniversary of my mom's passing. I do enjoy the holidays, but there is a part of me that wishes she were still here to enjoy them with the family.

I am thankful that I still have other family to spend time with, though, and that is what's most important.

So, here is what I am thankful for in 2025

1. My family
2. My friends
3. My faith
4. My home
5. My clothes
6. Video games
7. Board, card games
8. Books/audiobooks
9. My library and all that they offer
10. Jigsaw puzzles
11. My favorite music/songs
12. My favorite movies
13. My favorite TV shows
14. My violin
15. Joni and Friends
16. Baking
17. Knitting
18. Crochet
19. Photography
20. Journaling
21. Holidays/birthdays spent with friends and family
22. Central air
23. Local holiday festivals/events
24. Stickers (I LOVE stickers!!)
25. Warm showers, especially during the Fall and winter
26. Memories with family and friends
27. Naps (yes, naps!!)
28. Family videos
29. Cuddling with my cats
30. Sensory/fidget toys
31. Bullet journaling
32. Text messages from friends and family
33. Scrapbooks/photo albums
34. Clean, running water
35. Chocolate
36. Sudoku
37. Arts and crafts supplies
38. The sound of my cats purring
    
39. Water bottles
40. Loop earplugs and noise cancelling headphones
41. Canva (I love to be creative, but I'm not the best at free handing things, so Canva is one of those things that is such a big help)

Well, there you go. What I am thankful for this year. This time of year makes me realize just how much I have, and I am so thankful for all of it. 

What are you thankful for?

To those who celebrate, I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving

My 2025 Word of the Year

For quite a few years now, I have been doing a word of the year and will be doing one again this year.

For 2025, I have decided that my word will be:

INDEPENDENT

It didn't take me very long to decide on this one, as I am tired of relying on others to do things for me, that I am fully capable of doing myself.

I am an adult, and I need to remind myself that I am capable of doing things for myself, and that people won't always be available or able to help me all the time. I want to be able to take charge of important appointments, getting myself places, making phone calls and more on my own, so that I can prove to myself that I can do these things.

I am also worried about what other people would say or think about me, if I say or do something, so I tend to not do things I want to do.

Every single time I had to make a phone call, or practice driving, I always thought about what could go wrong and that I couldn't do it myself, which made my anxiety go up. And I want to change that. I want to live a life that I love, instead of living in isolation, fear, and anxiety.

The things I want to work on, to increase my independence, are:

• to feel more comfortable making phone calls, especially important ones
• to feel more comfortable driving, so I can get my license and not have to rely on others taking me places all the time
• to speak/stand up for myself 
• when I feel like something is wrong, or when I have something to say
• to feel more comfortable with public speaking
• to try something out of my comfort zone more often
• to relearn how to play the violin, be proficient in playing, and to play in front of a group of people
• to have a new job, that is a good fit for me and my abilities
• to ask for help only when I actually need it, instead of just having someone do something for me before trying myself
• set healthy boundaries and stick to them as much as possible
• to be more responsible with money
• to learn how to not let my emotions get in the way of making decisions
• to feel more comfortable going places on my own more often
• to not be so afraid of change
• to learn at least one foreign language so I can help people who aren't fluent in English
• to do things I want to do without worrying about what others think/say
• to feel more comfortable starting a conversation with someone
• to be comfortable with grocery shopping on a regular basis
• to take better care of my health/prioritize self-care (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual) instead of ignoring it
• to learn basic home maintenance skills
• to improve/maintain my friendships
• overcome my fear of failure
• to not let fear get in the way of living an amazing life

I hope to work on these beyond 2025 as well, not just for the one year. I just have to push beyond the fears, doubts, and anxiety to get to the things that truly matter.

Are you doing a word of the year? If so, what is your word for 2025?

My 2025 Reading Bucket List

I have always loved to read, but lately I haven't been able to concentrate on reading a book myself. Every time I start a book, I would end up not finishing it. Not because I didn't like the book, but because I didn't have the motivation to keep going.

This year, I want to do better with reading more. I only read one book last year, and it was a short one at that (The Great Gatsby). Very disappointed with that, as I wanted to read so much more. 

I hope to read at least 6 books in 2025, but if I can read more than that, that would be great. I know 6 isn't a lot, but with the way I am, it is a good starting point. I really want to get back into reading on a regular basis again.

I tend to gravitate towards young adult fiction books, but the last few years I have started branching out towards other genres like non-fiction and faith-based books. Which is good, as I want to get out of my comfort zone more often, even with the types of books that I read, so that I can expose myself to different types of writing styles.

In no particular order, here is my reading bucket list for 2025:

• Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
• The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis
• A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin
• A Clash of Kings by George R.R. Martin
• A Storm of Swords by George R.R. Martin
• A Feast for Crows by George R.R. Martin
• A Dance with Dragons by George R.R. Martin
• The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman
• The Subtle Knife by Philip Pullman
• The Amber Spyglass by Philip Pullman
  
• Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire
• Son of a Witch by Gregory Maguire
• A Lion Among Men by Gregory Maguire
• Out of Oz by Gregory Maguire
• Outlander by Diana Gabaldon
• Dragonfly in Amber by Diana Gabaldon
• Voyager by Diana Gabaldon
• Drums of Autumn by Diana Gabaldon
• The Fiery Cross by Diana Gabaldon
• A Breath of Snow and Ashes by Diana Gabaldon
• An Echo in the Bone by Diana Gabaldon
• Written in My Own Heart's Blood by Diana Gabaldon
• Go Tell the Bees That I am Gone by Diana Gabaldon
• A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

What do you want to read this year?

My 2025 Goals/Bucket List

I can't believe 2024 is just about over! It was an ok year for me. Nothing special, significant, or interesting happened, so I am hoping that 2025 is more exciting.

I take that back. I suppose a few special/interesting things did happen in 2024.

I made my first t-shirt quilt, which is also my first sewing project. I also got to make a garden sign in my library's creative studio, as well as decorate a wooden Christmas ornament in the studio. I also went to a local summer festival, made Thanksgiving dinner, and celebrated Christmas with family.

Without further ado, here is what I would like to do in 2025:

• Be an STM at a Joni and Friends retreat
• Go to a Joni and Friends Walk N Roll
• Work on writing a book
• Visit a friend in another state
• Read the entire bible
• Learn to juggle
• Be in a loving, healthy relationship with a significant other
• Binge watch a TV show
• Have a job that I love, that works for me
• Get bedroom cleaned up
• Get bedroom redecorated
• Be more comfortable with driving, and get my driver's license
• Get tested for autism and ADHD
• Relearn how to play the violin, and learn how to play 2 songs a month
• Learn how to play the ukulele
• Learn how to meal plan
• Learn how to grocery shop (how to get the best prices for what I want)
• Write and send letters to friends
• Journal at least once a week
• Make a second t-shirt quilt
• Start a YouTube channel, and post regularly
• Cook Thanksgiving dinner
• Improve my baking skills
• Improve my cake/cookie decorating skills
• Create and use a prayer board
• Connect with friends once a week
• Learn how to apply my own makeup
• Deepen my faith
• Deepen my relationship with God
• Go back to church regularly
• Be involved in church
• Become more independent
• Read one book a month
• Knit/crochet at least one thing each season
• Dye my hair purple
• Update my resume
• Grow out my hair
• Get a tattoo in memory of my mom
• Get my passport
• Decrease my screen time
• Exercise in some way 30 minutes every day
• Build up stronger relationships with my friends
• Work on overcoming my fears and doubts
• Practice, improve communication skills
• Declutter at least 2 rooms in my home
• Memorize important phone numbers
• Put together Downton Abbey puzzle
• Create a vision board
• Make a charcuterie board
• Build an emergency fund
• Unfollow accounts that no longer serve/interest me
• Learn self defense

I know this is a lot, but there is a lot I want to do in life, and I hope to be able to do more in 2025 than I did this year. I can't wait to see what 2025 brings!

What is on your bucket list for 2025?

What I Got for Christmas 2024

To those who celebrated, I hope you had a wonderful Christmas! 

I had a good Christmas with my family. I made Christmas cookies, watched Christmas movies, and opened presents. It was kind of funny opening presents, as my cats went crazy playing with the wrapping paper, so that made the day more interesting!

A scare that happened a few months prior made me worried about how the holidays would look, but fortunately things were good, for which I am so thankful!

So, without further ado, here is what I got for Christmas this year:

• Bible cover
• 25-pack of blank canvases for painting
• Loop Engage earplugs
• Loop earplug connector cord
• Acrylic paint pens
• CD/DVD holder
• Plain white t-shirts (this was added after making the initial wishlist; I wanted a plain shirt to use for a library event next month, where we can customize a shirt)
• Wallace figurine, from Wallace and Gromit (this was an unexpected gift from one of my brothers. I do love the Wallace and Gromit movies, so I am happy with this gift!)
• Essential Elements for Strings: Violin book 1
• Essential Elements for Strings: Violin book 2
• Fabric marking pens (for sewing)
• Bonanza season 8 on DVD
• Hawaii Five-0 season 2 on DVD
• Call the Midwife season 3 on DVD
• Voyager by Diana Gabaldon (book)

I am very happy with all that I got, and I can't wait to enjoy using my gifts. 

I already have a project that I will be using the paint pens for, so I can't wait to get started on that. I have also been wanting to relearn how to play the violin for quite some time now, and the violin books will hopefully motivate me to get started on that. I love being creative, and can't wait to use the items I got that help with making things.

If you celebrated, what was on your Christmas list? What did you get? I hope you had a wonderful Christmas holiday, and if not, then just know that you are loved, and that you are not alone.

My Winter 2024/2025 Bucket List/Goals

It is almost officially winter and although I am not looking forward to the snow, ice, and cold temps, I do look forward to other aspects of the season.

As I do every season, I made a bucket list of things I would like to do this winter, and hope to do as many of them as I can.

I recently posted about my Christmas bucket list, so I won't really include any Christmas things to do on this list.

In no particular order, here is what I would like to do this winter:

• Make and have hot chocolate
• Make a 2025 vision board
• Read 2 books (and read them while drinking something warm, and wrapped up in a cozy blanket)
• Create and use a prayer board
• Relearn how to play the violin and learn to play at least 3 songs
• Apply for a new job
• Binge watch at least one season of one of my favorite shows
• Sign up to volunteer at a Joni and Friends retreat
• Work on cleaning up my bedroom
• Have a movie marathon
• Put together Downton Abbey puzzle
• Create a charcuterie board
• Improve my cake decorating skills
• Improve my cookie decorating skills
• Learn Spanish
• Bake at least one loaf of bread
• Have fondue
• Memorize one bible verse every 1-2 weeks
• Knit or crochet a sweater for myself
• Bake cinnamon rolls from scratch
• Build a snowman
• Write letters to friends
• Create a winter self-care kit
• Create a snow globe
• Have an indoor picnic
• Have an at-home spa day
• Make paper snowflakes
• Plan a staycation
• Color in a coloring book
• Play video games
• Start an indoor exercise routine
• Connect with friends once a week`

I may come up with other things I would like to do this winter, but this is a good start. Hopefully I can make this winter as enjoyable as possible, with the things I want to do.

What are things you would like to do this winter?

My 2024 Christmas Wishlist

Well, it is Christmas time once again, and I am looking forward to it this year. Except for the snow, ice, and cold, there are many things that come with the season that I enjoy, and can't wait to experience them this year.

For quite a few years now, I have posted my Christmas wishlist on here and am doing so again today. It took me a while to decide what I wanted to put on my list this year, but I am happy with this list, and I can't wait to see what I get.

Note: I do not expect to get everything on this list. I will be happy with whatever I get. These are just things I would like to get this year.

Here is my Christmas wish list for this year:

• Loop Engage earplugs
• Connector cord for Loop earplugs
• Disney Dreamlight Valley Cozy Edition PS4 game
• 3-tier rolling utility cart
• Sheet music stand
• Violin stand
• Bible cover/tote bag
• Bonanza season 8 on DVD
• Call the Midwife season 3 on DVD
• Outlander season 3 on DVD
• Hawaii 5-0 season 2 on DVD
• Voyager by Diana Gabaldon
• The Art of Getting It Wrong: Finding the Good in the Misadventures of Life by Stephen Miller
• Life Without Limits: Inspiration for a Ridiculously Good Life by Nick Vujicic
• Living with Hope by Michael Panther
• Essential Elements for Strings: Book 1 for Violin
• Essential Elements for Strings: Book 2 for Violin
• Essential Elements for Strings: Book 3 for Violin
• CD/DVD case
• Earrings
• Canvases for painting
• Salt lamp
• Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza card game
• Erasable fabric marking pens
• Light therapy lamp
• Plastic storage bins (I plan on using these for my cookie cutters, if I get them)

I am looking forward to Christmas and can't wait for it to come!

If you celebrate Christmas, what is on your wish list? I hope you have a wonderful Christmas this year!

My 2024 Christmas Goals/Bucket List

It is the holiday season again (this year went by so fast!!), and with it comes all of the fun activities we can do. 

I don't care for the cold, snow, and ice, but I enjoy pretty much anything else about the season and can't wait to experience these things this year!

I had been thinking a while about what I would like to do this year, and this is what I came up with. I hope to be able to do many of these this Christmas season and am looking forward to making some new memories.

In no particular order, here is what I would like to do this Christmas season:

• Drink hot chocolate
• Go ice skating
• Decorate a gingerbread house
• Watch Christmas movies
• Listen to Christmas music
• Bake Christmas cookies
• Play video/board/card games
• Build a snowman
• Drink non-alcoholic eggnog
• Make ornaments
• Put a puzzle together
• Send Christmas cards
• Paint
• Create an Advent wreath
• Make/get an Advent calendar
• See the Christmas lights at the local zoo
• Visit a Christmas market
• Make and decorate a Christmas cake
• Have a spa day
• Read A Christmas Carol
• Attend a Christmas church service
• Make paper snowflakes
• Write and send letters to friends
• Attend a Christmas craft fair
• Create a charcuterie board
• Learn about Christmas traditions in other countries
• Make a chicken pot pie
• Learn 1-2 Christmas songs on the violin
• Learn 1-2 Christmas songs on the ukulele
• Make a prayer board

If you celebrate Christmas, what is on your list of things you would like to do this year? I hope you have a wonderful Christmas season!!

30 Things I Am Thankful For in 2024

Well, it's the holiday season once again. 

Once again, I have decided to make a list of things that I am grateful for. It helps me to see all that I have, and all that I am able to do in my life.

For a few years, I struggled with enjoying the holidays, as I was dealing with grief, but now I enjoy the holidays again (albeit still with some grief). I am looking forward to Thanksgiving and Christmas this year and can't wait to see what they hold for me and my family and friends.

Here are 30 things I am thankful for this year:

1. My home
2. My family (which includes my cats)
3. My friends
4. My health
5. My faith
6. Joni and Friends
7. Get Organized HQ Virtual
8. My library's Library of Things
9. My library's creative studio
10. My blogs (yes, I have more than one)
11. Getting to make my first t-shirt quilt this year
12. A loved one doing much better after a health scare
13. Being able to declutter expired food from the kitchen (we unfortunately had a lot!)
    (I know this is a weird thing to be thankful for, but we had a lot of food that was just sitting there for a very long time, not being used, so it was time to get rid of it all)
14. Being able to declutter Christmas decorations that we don't use/are broken or in bad shape
15. Getting to design my own garden flag in my library's creative studio
16. Watching a presentation by a librarian at my local library, on ADHD and autism
17. Audiobooks
18. Knitting
19. Crocheting
20. Baking
21. Photography
22. Making a garden flag in my library's creative studio
23. Living close to shops/stores/restaurants
24. Being able to watch livestreams of church services
25. Being able to get a new phone when the old one quit working
26. Video games
27. Reusable water bottles
28. Books
29. Movies
30. Music

What are you thankful for this year? If you are celebrating, I hope you have a happy, safe Thanksgiving!

Five Minute Friday: Fight

It has been quite a while since I have participated in a Five-Minute Friday, but I felt inspired by this week's prompt, and decided to join in.

I love to write and have missed these weekly prompts, so it feels really good to be back, doing these again.

Without further ado, here is my interpretation of this week's prompt.

Fight

Just over 14 years ago, my mom was fighting for her life, and although the fight ended here on earth, she won when she went to heaven.

Her fight has ended, but mine has just begun, fighting depression, anxiety, grief, and all the emotions that come with losing a loved one.

My mom was the one I always went to when I needed to talk, especially if I was having a hard time and needed comfort. She was so patient and understanding with me when I was going through the worst of my depression, knowing that I was in a battle with my mind and struggling to overcome the fears and thoughts I was experiencing.

I have also been fighting with not speaking up and reaching out to people I trust in times of need. Especially with God. Much of the time I feel like I would be a burden to others, to God, if I reach out to them, asking for help.

I know that is not true, but it is hard not to believe that, when I am feeling down, like I am not worth being heard.

With God, my friends, and family by my side, I am winning this fight, and I know that I can continue to win. I know that I am stronger than my fears, my anxieties, and anything else that may try to bring me down. I know that I will one day, I will see my mom again, and that is something worth fighting (and waiting) for.

My Fall 2024 Goals/Bucket List

It is nearly Fall, which means it's time for my Fall goals/bucket list! I love making these kinds of lists, as it helps me figure out what I want to do this season and find events near me that relate to what's on my list.

I have been thinking about what I wanted to do this Fall for a while and am looking forward to doing as many of these as I can.

I think I love making to-do/bucket/goals list because I can write out the things I want to do and feel a sense of accomplishment from checking something off. It makes me feel productive, like I am able to do the things I love without too much trouble.

So, without further ado, here is what I want to do this Fall:

• Paint/carve/decorate a pumpkin
• Watch Fall/Halloween themed movies
• Make Halloween cookies
• Paint
• Knit or crochet a blanket
• Knit or crochet a sweater for myself
• Put together a puzzle
• Create a Fall-themed wreath
• Make crafts with fallen leaves
• Paint my nails a Fall color
• Roast pumpkin seeds
• Do a corn maze
• Make s'mores
• Read 1-2 books a month
• Drink hot chocolate
• Make a scarecrow
• Have a game night
• Put away summer clothes
• Attend a Fall festival
• Bake a pumpkin pie
• Cook Thanksgiving dinner
• Go on an outdoor photography walk
• Decorate my room for Fall/Halloween
• Spend a day scrapbooking
• Binge watch a TV show
• Color in a coloring book
• Watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade
• Make chili
• Go to a Joni and Friends Walk n' Roll
• Have an at-home spa day
• Go on solo/self-dates
• Make Boo baskets
• Make cinnamon rolls
• Donate to a food bank
• Go thrifting
• Create Fall-themed charcuterie boards
• Write letters to friends
• Make second t-shirt quilt

What do you want to do this Fall?

Get Organized HQ Virtual 2024

I am so excited about this year's Get Organized HQ Virtual! This is my fourth year attending, and I love learning new tips and tricks to help me get organized in my house, and in life in general.

I heard about this event from another blogger a few years ago, and I decided to check it out, as it sounded interesting. I am so glad I did, as it was so informative, fun, and exactly what I needed.

At this event, there are speakers who talk about tips for decluttering, organizing ideas, crafts, faith, self-care, meal planning and prepping, tips for parents as well as empty nesters, and more.

There is always something to learn every year, and many of the speakers have bonuses for those who attend the event. There are even giveaways for items that help keep your home clean and organized.

Even though this is my fourth year attending this event, I feel like I could always learn more, to see what would work for me.

You can find more information about Get Organized HQ, here.

You can also find more information about GOHQ Virtual and to get your free ticket here, if you are interested in checking it out. 

Or you can purchase an All-Access Pass here and get instant and lifetime access to the event.

There are 100+ speakers at this event, so there may be some tips and tricks that don't relate to you and your situation, so don't feel like you have to watch every single video. You can pick and choose which ones you feel like would most benefit you. 

That is one of the best things about this event. You don't have to get to everything, if it's not something that would work for you.

If you decide to get a ticket, I hope that you will be able to learn something at this event, and that you are able to find something that can help you have a cleaner, more organized home that you can feel good about. 

My Summer 2024 Goals/Bucket List

Summer is nearly here, and as usual, I have created a bucket list of things I want to do during the season.

Summer is my favorite season, as it is warm, and I am more willing to spend time outside. I feel like I am more productive during the warmer months, because I am not cold, and I can focus more on what I am doing.

The one thing I am unable to do this summer, that I am sad about not getting to do, is volunteering at a Joni and Friends retreat. Which I'm not too happy about, as retreat is one of the few things that brings me so much peace and joy every year. I am hopeful that I will be able to go next year.

In no particular order, here is my summer bucket list:

• Go swimming
• Get bedroom cleaned up
• Redecorate my bedroom
• Make lemonade
• Ride my bike
• Go for walks
• Make a t-shirt quilt
• Learn to play 1 song on the violin every 1-2 weeks
• Read the Bible every day
• Pray every day
• Memorize one bible verse every 1-2 weeks
• Paint
• Make smoothies
• Go to the farmer's market
• Get my driving permit, and practice driving
• Improve baking, cake and cookie decorating skills
• Go on self-dates
• Spend a day (or more) in the city
• Go out for ice cream
• Dye my hair purple
• Build a fort
• Apply for a new job
• Have a movie marathon
• Make friendship bracelets
• Binge watch a TV show
• Make a fairy garden
• Draw with sidewalk chalk
• Read outside
• Make lemon bars
• Write letters to friends
• Knit/crochet at least one item
• Reach 100% in a video game
• Put a puzzle together
• Learn Spanish
• Paint my nails
• Make charcuterie boards
• At-home spa day at least once a month
• Take photos
• Make origami
• Learn how to barbecue  
• Learn to cook 3 meals  
• Bake a pizza from scratch
• Work on writing a book
• Become more comfortable with public speaking  
• Figure out an exercise routine that works for me, and keep up with it
• Learn how to apply my own makeup
• Make a prayer board
• Make a junk journal
• Go thrifting
• Volunteer
• Write poetry

Here's hoping to a fulfilling, relaxing, fun and memory-making summer.

What is on your summer goals/bucket list?

My Current Favorites

 I haven't done one of these lists in quite a while, so I figured it was time for another favorites list.

I have had this post saved for quite a while, adding to it as I find new/new to me things that I end up loving. I eventually forgot about this list, until recently, so I figured it was time to post it, as there is a good amount of new favorites on here.

• His Mercy is More by Matt Boswell
  I recently heard this song on the radio, and absolutely love it.
  
  
• Pink Piglets from Candy Club
  I found out about this from a friend who is collaborating with the company to sell these, and I loved them the first time I tried them!
  
  
• Dragon Eggs from Candy Club  
  These are another find from the same friend. They are soo good!!
  
  
• Irish singer Hozier
  I found out about Hozier through Girls' Life magazine, where they posted about some Irish artists to listen to for St. Patrick's Day. I am part Irish, so of course, I was intrigued by this article. I decided to check out Hozier, who was the first artist they mentioned. His full name is Andrew Hozier-Byrne, and he is from Bray, Ireland. His music is described as bluesy folk. I looked him up on Spotify, and liked what I heard when I listened to his music.
  
  
• The Art of Getting It Wrong: Finding Good in the Misadventures of Life by Stephen Miller
  I read this book for the first time last year, and absolutely loved it! It is about the authors life, and what he learned along the way, from his early years to now. He talks about jobs he's had, his school and home life, his faith, and his YouTube channel. 
  
  
• Suave Skin Solutions Nourishing Lotion
  I found this lotion last year, while shopping for some last-minute things for a trip I was taking.
  
  
• Macrame
  I've known about macrame for a long time, but never got into it until recently. I have only made a couple small things, but it has got me hooked, and wanting to make more.
  
  
• Heart of God by Zach Williams
  This song gives us a glimpse into God's heart, what he does for us. He puts the right people in our lives at the right time, showing us His love. It shows us what faith can do, for ourselves as well as for other people. He hears our cries, and lifts our burdens, if we just come to him.
  
  
• Because of Bethlehem by Matthew West
  This song reminds us of where the savior's life started, and where our hope, love, and grace comes from. It tells us of the beauty of a humble beginning, and the beauty of God's mercy and love.
  
  
• The Hope of Christmas by Matthew West  
  I know Christmas was several months ago, but I just had to include this song on this list.
  
  
• Somewhere in Your Silent Night by Casting Crowns 
  In this song, it reminds us that God has always been with us, will always be with us, has always loved us, and will always love us, no matter what we have done or will do. We just have to turn to him, and accept his love, grace, mercy, peace. To accept him, even in our "silent night."
  
  
• Disney Dreamlight Valley video game  
  This game has apparently been out for a couple of years now, but I just recently heard of it. I decided to check it out from the library to see what it's like, and I quickly fell in love with it. There are many Disney characters in the game, from the classics like Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and more, to newer characters like WALL-E, Mirabel from Encanto, and more. At the time of this post, I have unlocked about 24 characters, the last ones being Buzz Lightyear and Woody.

Well, that is my entire list of current favorites. It's a good mix of music, games, crafts, snacks, books, and beauty products. I wonder what I will come across for my next favorites list?

What are some things you are currently loving?

My Spring 2024 Goals/Bucket List

Spring is almost here, and that makes me so happy! I'm not a fan of the cold, snow and ice, so it's always a relief when spring comes.

As always, I have made a goals/bucket list for the spring and am hoping to get around half of this completed.

In no particular order, here is what I would like to do this spring:

• Get rest of retreat photos printed and picked up
• Get bedroom cleaned up
• Begin relearning how to play the violin
• Get bike ready for riding (inflate tires, put lights on)
• Memorize 1 bible verse every 1-2 weeks
• Read 1-2 books a month
• Go for walks
• Learn how to sew
• Work on making t-shirt quilt
• Go on self-dates
• Paint
• Dye Easter eggs
• Draw with sidewalk chalk
• Create a fairy garden
• Take photos
• Make friendship bracelets
• Write letters to friends
• Go to my church's Easter mass
• Reach 100% in a video game
• Binge watch a TV show
• Make charcuterie boards
• Buy a new pair of sandals
• Go thrift shopping
• Color in a coloring book
• Put together a puzzle
• Knit or crochet a shawl
• Make an Easter basket for myself
• Play board/card games
• Apply for a new job
• Start a YouTube channel
• Start a new skincare routine
• Start a new haircare routine
• Work on my mental health
• Create and work on an art journal
• Learn how to cook better, so I can make more meals for myself and my family
• Learn Spanish
• Learn how to be more confident in my speaking abilities

There will probably be more things that I will add to this list, but this is a good starting point for what I would like to do this spring.

I am so glad spring is almost here!

What is on your bucket list for spring?