Here’s to 2024

Today’s post is more of a personal one. I want to share my thoughts as 2023 comes to a close. I began an online Health Information Management program in fall 2022, and this year was my first full year studying part time as I work full time. I’ve gotten used to the busy schedule, but this year has really flown by! Overall it’s been an amazing year and I truly feel like I’ve made progress in many areas of my life.

A New Relationship

I started off the year by ending my relationship with my partner. It was a very hard decision to make, but I knew my ex and I were not a good fit. We are on friendly terms now and I wish him the best.

I also started dating someone new this year. His name is Darren and he’s a big goofball who always puts a smile on my face. He treats me like a princess and I feel like I’m always learning something new whenever we’re together. He’s the first man I’ve dated who has children. Meeting his kids this summer was quite a nerve-wracking experience for me because I wanted to make a good first impression. It ended up going SUPER well and my nervousness was for nothing. They live in another province so I won’t see them again until next summer, but I’m already looking forward to it!

Health and Finances

Having such a busy schedule can make it difficult to fit in time to exercise. I’ve found that if I go for a 40 minute walk first thing in the morning before I start anything else, I am sure to get it done. Long walks are very enjoyable for me. They are a time for me to collect my thoughts or sometimes to daydream. I’ve been more conscious about the amount of sweets I eat this year and majorly cut back on gummy candies and chocolates. I did consume a lot of sweets around Halloween and Christmas time, but over the course of the year my diet has been much healthier than in the past.

This year I’ve also been much better at avoiding non-essentials purchases. I do still treat myself occasionally, but long gone are the days of my 20s when I’d be buying new clothes at the mall on a weekly basis. I feel much more in control of my finances. I’ve actually been making extra mortgage payments since the fall with Darren’s advice. It feels great to save on interest!

A New Hobby

A new hobby I started this year is reselling on Poshmark. One of my best friends who lives in the United States started reselling in summer 2022 and had success. I decided to try it myself in February this year. The social aspect of Poshmark is very fun. It’s definitely more exciting than selling on Etsy or on Kijiji! I began by selling clothing items I no longer wore from my own closet. After watching a lot of reseller content on YouTube (thanks Hannah Alonzo!), I also decided to try reselling items I purchased from thrift stores. My family has also donated some items for me to sell. Finally, I’ve cross-posted some hand painted press on nails from my Etsy shop. I’ve really been enjoying Poshmark! You can check out my Poshmark closet here if you’re interested.

2024 should be another busy year. I will be working full time and studying part time again this year. My goals are to continue being financially responsible, keep up with my walks, and spend quality time with my family, Darren and my friends. I’m wishing everyone a blessed year ahead. Here’s to 2024!