A few days into 2025, a friend asked if I’d made any New Year’s resolutions. I explained that in response to a not-so-great 2024, I had decided not to resolve anything but simply shake things up in as many ways as I feel led.

 

So what has that looked like so far?

First, I joined a writer-friend in attempting to donate or discard 2025 nonperishable items in 2025. I probably have many times over that many photos & pieces of memorabilia to scan and discard, but I’m not planning to count those. So far —and with very little effort, to be honest — I’ve removed 308 items.

Second, I’m slowly integrating the principles of “Good Energy” (Dr. Casey Means). In January, I threw away my stevia and all foods with added sugars (I didn’t have any sugar); tossed all scented & artifically-colored personal-care items; and gave away two Scentsy warmers and several unopened packages of wax melts. And with the added encouragement of my dermatologist, I replaced my skin-care regimen of 4 or so expensive products every morning and evening with Cetaphil facial cleanser & facial lotion.

I also decided to shake up my writing. No more well-thought-out blog posts shared sporadically (at best). Fueled by the finger (and all-over muscular) pain and fatigue I’ve been experiencing since mid-December, I’ve decided to simply chat here for no longer than 10 minutes at least once a week. No revision or editing of posts — just stopping in to chat as if in conversation with friends. I hope you’ll stop by and chat as well!

I have another idea rattling around in my brain, and the more it rattles, the more enthused I get. But . . .

So what is the result of shaking up things in my life?

I’m having a blast and am enjoying the results: less stuff, the joy of seeing others enjoy what I’ve offered them (50+ skeins of yarn to an avid knitter/crocheter whose house burned, for example), and less guilt & more peace.

The timer is about to ding, so I’ll say goodbye for now, other than to ask . . .

What are you doing to shake up your life? The year is young . . . start today!