PbyCj

Okay, first things first—this is my debut recording on a brand new phone! Cue the applause. I’ve had my old phone for years now, and I’m just really grateful to upgrade. I can actually hear people clearly when I talk, which, let’s be real, is quite nice. The audio? It’s supposed to be better too, but I’m not releasing audio just yet. When I had my podcast, though…wow. That was a whole experience—writing, recording, editing, the whole package. And let’s be honest: that’s a huge time commitment. So if I ever did podcasting again, it’d have to be more relaxed, like this—just talking on the go, in-between moments, no perfectionism. I mean, it’s almost 2025, and we’re over that, right?

Oh, yeah, speaking of early blogs, remember my very first one from late 2021? Back then, I was all about finding ways to celebrate the small things in life, trying to really feel that sense of joy and gratitude. I rarely pause and reflect on all the good around me—life, family, small victories. At the time, I even started rewarding myself with sweets, which was kind of new. I was anti-sweets back then…now, not so much. Coffee’s another thing; I used to drink it black without a second thought, but these days, give me some foam and maybe a little sugar, thank you very much.

And looking back, I realize I wasn’t ever in charge of “fun” in my life before. That wasn’t my role. When I was married, I handled the responsibilities—the structure, the planning, the logistics—but the fun? Nope, that wasn’t my job. It’s funny how much that mindset has lingered. I don’t naturally think about planning for enjoyment. I just want to come home, close the door, and enjoy some alone time. But today, it hit me—what if I did plan for something different? Like, what if I made room for activities outside the to-do lists and productivity routines?

Productivity isn’t just a never-ending chain of achievements. It needs a little balance, a touch of fun, even if it’s simple—like going to a play, seeing some art, dancing, just something outside the norm. I’ve read that taking time to rest and enjoy life fuels everything else. We’re not machines; we need the balance. So as 2025 approaches, maybe it’s time for me to start bringing more of that balance in, just a little bit here and there.

For now, though? I must do laundry today.