all the more: a list

In 2015, I want more

• good books
• bubble baths
• delicious homemade meals
• green smoothies
• comfy clothes
• sleep 
• stories/poems written
• laughter
• flowers
• pretty dresses
• adventures and get-togethers with friends
• vinyl records
• playlists with good music
• compassion and sincerity towards others
• veggie burgers
• staycations
• cups of tea and hot cocoa
• snuggle time with my dog
• relaxation time outdoors
• patience
• pleasant memories

to adapt {and to flourish}

Adapt was my word for 2014. Prior to then, my life had become sort of stagnant; mentally and physically, I was in a dark place as I processed the effects that living in a foreign country for half a year had on me while also sorting things out at home. On New Year’s Eve, I realized that I wanted things to change. I wanted to put the past behind me and move on with life. To Adapt became my goal as I approached the next year.

Looking back, my life changed so much. I attended more parties and events; I ate more fruits and vegetables and became less of a picky eater; I decided to see a counselor and some doctors about my physical issues and my depression and anxiety about life; and I did plenty of reading on social and political issues and made conclusions about my own personal beliefs. I decided to stop caring about what everyone else thought I should do or say and did things I enjoyed. My life isn't perfectly resolved, but I’m glad to say that I feel much more content than I did at this time last year.

My New Year’s Eve plans aren't very exciting - I plan to stay at home, eat food I like and miss the Ball Drop in Times Square for the third year in a row. I am totally okay with that.

I’m excited for what next year will be like. I’m turning seventeen this year, taking dual enrollment classes at a community college, and aiming to finally get my license (fingers crossed). What I hope to do next year includes:

+Making healthy eating and exercising a normal, routinely part of life

+Reading a lot more often - the Bible, fiction, nonfiction, memoirs and the like.

+Dabbling in many different types of art, such as photography and painting

+Developing my skills as a writer (hence this blog)

+Spending more time with the people I love

+Spending less time online

I want this year to be about more than just dealing with things. I want to make something of my life. I want to flourish. So that’s my word, my goal, for 2015. Flourish.