This will probably be the last newsletter of the year, unless inspiration strikes or I need to share something immediately.

I’m writing this from bed, while sipping my coffee from my favorite Wonder Woman mug. I’m thinking on this past year—how much I’ve learned, how much I’ve grown, how much I’ve stayed the same.

There are spaces I’ll never walk back into. There are places I am hoping to go. There is no tension between the two, and that is new. I’m a person who never walks away, until it’s impossible not to.

But I’m looking at the future—amid all of the terror and chaos we find swirling around us—and finding things to hope for.

I’ve always joked that the quickest way to get me to do something is to tell me I can’t do it. That activates my contrary streak and I’ll do it backwards in high heels, like Ginger Rogers if I have to.

But life is all about intention, so I am making a list. I’ll write it down and put it underneath my tiny cauldron at my desk. And I’ll light a candle. And we’ll see where it takes me.

May the end of the year be sweeter than you hoped for. May you know you are loved. May you love in return. May your heart be a little lighter. Your grief a little less heavy. May you find a new star on the horizon and walk toward it, knowing that a single step is all it takes to start a journey.

May you be brave enough, braver than you think. I hope you choose yourself. I hope you make good art. I hope you can breathe a sigh of relief. Curl up with a good book. Play video games. Laugh. Sip good wine. Make wonderful plans. Let yourself hope wish for more.

The universe is listening, darlings. Offer it some inspiration.

Always, always dare.

XOXOX

PS I did not proof this, so if you see any typos, no you didn’t. Capsize?

Currently watching, literally as I’m typing this: When Harry Met Sally (RIP Rob and Michelle Reiner)

Currently listening to: Sarah McLachlan and Kelly Clarkson singing “River,” arguably one of the saddest, most beautiful songs ever

Currently recommending: Strange Brew flavored coffee — seriously, if you’re a person who buys me gifts, this is my favorite thing.

Movie I enjoyed recently: The Family McMullen. What can I say? I love me some Ed Burns. (Siri was terribly convinced he was 79, btw. Thanks, AI, you garbage factory of bullshit.)