As the year wraps up, let me take a moment to reflect on everything that happened this 2024. NGL, I wasn’t sure how to put it at first, finding the words to sum it up nicely. On one hand, there were truly memorable moments. On the other, I’ve never been this stressed—so much so that I’m experiencing psychosomatic symptoms, which have only fueled my anxiety. A visit to the shrink is definitely on my list for next year, and hopefully sooner, because my mental health is seriously compromised at the moment.

What was my biggest learning this year? 🌿
The concept of uncertainty has never felt truer than it did this year. Sure, the year wasn’t all bad, but I’ve never felt this vulnerable due to uncertainty. There’s only so much I can control, and the lack of power over certain things leaves me feeling exposed and anxious. I’m working on sorting this out, and in the meantime, I’m trying to manage my anxiety. One step at a time, self. One step at a time.

Now that I’ve updated you on where I’m at, let’s revisit the year:

The Year in Review

• A Strong Start
  The year actually started well! I visited Macau for the first time and returned to Hong Kong for the third with my family. We also went to the beach, all of us this time, including our dog and my late grandma. 🏖️
• Farewell Blues
  Back in May, I wrote about my grandma’s passing, and honestly, it’s still hard to look back. Losing her was so much more than just grief; it was dealing with all the logistics that come with it. With my dad’s passing, I had the space to grieve, but with her, it felt like I had to take care of everything. It was overwhelming. Grief isn’t just emotional: it’s a process, and it hits hardest for the ones left behind.
• Moving Forward
  Moving on was both gentle yet fast, but the family dynamics shifted. We moved on relatively quicker. She was old and frail, so while it was unexpected, it wasn’t totally surprising either.
• First Time in South Korea
  Not everything was heavy, though! Earlier in the year, we planned a trip to South Korea, and thankfully, we got our visas in time. We visited Seoul, Busan, and Gyeongju! I’d love to go back, but maybe in a different season, but summer is defo luggage friendly! 🧳
• A Change for the Better
  Some things happened this year (not going into details), but it really made our family rethink how we interact. We’ve stopped walking on eggshells around each other, and honestly, it feels like a big step forward.
• Anxiety on Overdrive
  I thought things would get easier, but I ended up in a situation that constantly triggers my anxiety. 😰 It’s tiring to always be on edge, and lately, it’s been harder to manage. There are all these “things” I can’t quite identify, and it’s upsetting because it constantly occupies my mind, driving me to exhaustion. 🌀 I’m doing my best and praying through it, and honestly, prayer has been a huge help in calming me down. 🙏

Plans for 2025

• Prioritize What Matters
  I tend to YOLO lately, but next year, I want to focus on what’s truly important. I’ll keep the details to myself for now.
• Start My “Diarist Era”
  I plan to journal again! And not the fancy, scrapbook-style journaling, but simple, raw writing. ✍️ While this blog is cathartic, it’s still a public space. A private diary will help me process thoughts I’d rather not share.
• Live Healthier
  As someone with health anxiety, I’m determined to break the doomscrolling spiral. 🌱 I’ve lapsed in my exercise routine due to stress, but I’ll get back on track. Nearing my 40s, I need to prioritize my body. 🏃‍♀️
• Reread the Bible
  A few years ago, I read the entire Bible in a year, and it felt like such an accomplishment. I’d love to do it again—like I said before, there’s always something new I notice when I reread.
• Reignite My Love for Reading
  I miss reading! 📚 I’ve been struggling to find the right book to reignite my passion. I keep going back to my favorites, but I really want something fresh. I miss updating my Goodreads.
• Practice Frugality
  I spent too much this year so I need to be more mindful of my finances. I’ll still treat myself when it’s deserved, but I want to save more too.

A Short Prayer for the New Year

Lord, I pray for health—for myself and everyone, because it’s our greatest wealth. 💖 Financial stability would be wonderful too. Keep us safe and secure as we face the year ahead. 🙌 I’m grateful for 2024. It wasn’t my best year, but it was still kind, and I feel blessed by Your mercy. I pray for a nurturing and amazing 2025 for myself, my family, and everyone. Thank You, Lord. Amen! 🙏

Happy New Year, everybody! 🥂🍾🪩🎊✨