Reflecting on 2024!

This isn't my usual blog post for a Sunday. My usual Project 365 blog post will come on Wednesday, I wanted to put the end of the year in one post and start the next one in the new year, in it's own post. Today I am reflecting on the the year that was 2024! What a year I have had! We've had some real up's and downs. I have used the same questions to reflect on the year for the past few years but all I can think of to answer them is things that happened over the summer, a time I would rather forget so I came up with some new questions!

What are you most proud of accomplishing this year?

Getting through it. lol That is partly true but I am also so proud that I have raised strong and independent girls who know right from wrong. Ellie has especially had a challenging year and has really had to make some brave decisions but she has came through it with her head held high and is looking forward to 2025! A new year and new start is so true for her.

Did you try something new or step out of your comfort zone?

I hate getting the bus myself but this year I have had to, lots of times. It might seem like a stupid, simple thing but it has really pushed me out of my comfort zone! I have also found myself going into cafes and coffee shops myself and ordering my own drinks which I hate doing while I have been waiting because the buses have got there too early or too late. It has been a really big thing for me.

What was the biggest lesson you learned this year?

Go with your gut instincts about people as your first thoughts/fears are usually right!! I always like to think the best about people but this year has taught me that I need to be more wary of people and not to trust them so soon. 

What were the highlights of your year?

The days out and breaks away we have had! Mostly they have been shopping trips or trips to the cinema but the weekend at Hull Comic Con Mania was fantastic. Becky has had some fantastic breaks away with her girlfriend and even Stu and I had a night away when we went to York Christmas Market.

Was there a moment that made you laugh until you cried?

 I had a whole weekend of laughter when a nearby agricultural show happened. There were a lot of moments! We started off at the pub with a table full of us singing and dancing to the singers that were on. We found ourselves laughing lots at people around us. Funny dancers, kids who came across from the park peeking over the pub wall and trying drinks that we had never had before. Then show day we got caught in the rain which caused much hilarity, seeing my brother trying to keep his son from running off, seeing my girls on fairground rides and regretting going on them and then back to the pub for more laughs.

Did you make any new friends or reconnect with old ones?

Yes, I did make a couple of new friends through my blog. They were friends but just through commenting, some of those have since emailed or messaged me and we've chatted which has been nice. I reconnected with a couple of old friends who were there just when I needed them and couldn't have been more grateful. 

How have you changed or grown over the past 12 months?

Yes, I am not the most confident person but this year I have spoken up many times when I needed to. I have needed to find that confidence to fight for the right outcomes for my family. I have also lost about 3 stone in weight, I needed to lose it but it wasn't intentional. It's amazing what stress does to you. 

Did you achieve the goals you set for the year?

I have achieved more than I thought I would. We decorated the kitchen, had a night away with just Stu and I, got an air fryer and some other things. I am pleased with what I have achieved considering...

What was your favourite book, show, or movie of the year?

Book - Anne's book! My Life With Stiff Person Syndrome. Anne is an amazing person and blogger and shared some of her life in a book all about what she has dealt with and is still dealing with living with Stiff Person Syndrome.

Show - I would have to say Bridgerton! I was so late in watching it but it was bloody brilliant! The costumes, music and romance of it all got me well and truly hooked!

Movie - It has to be Wicked!! I loved it and I am now obsessed with the soundtrack!

Was there a purchase or gifts that brought you joy?

We bought an air fryer at the start of the year and it's not only brought me joy but it has made my life so much easier! I use the air fryer now more than my oven.

What was your highlight of 2024?