2022 was an incredible year for so many reasons, it’s hard to believe it’s behind us.

In 2022 I said I:

• would spend more time in the garden. This one actually makes me chuckle because almost zero gardening got done this year. I had these grand plans of building some raised garden beds and planting vegetables that we usually buy. Instead, I found myself hanging out on a blanket or on the deck. Relaxing while O was napping or watching her play.
• will spend as much time outside as possible actually, doing all the things. We spent a lot of time outside this summer, but in a much slower way than my 9-month pregnant self dreamed we would be. Instead of mountain biking, we spent lots of time walking in the woods around where we live. Sure, not as glamorous as summiting a major mountain, but it was nice to feel as though we were regaining our time in the wilderness.
• will read books because I want to, not because I set a numeric goal. I’ve actually been cruising along through the Wheel of Time books and loving the world-building. The secret is definitely taking the time to read a couple books in between so that the constant recapping doesn’t feel annoying.
• will spend more time by the water. This one, sadly, didn’t happen as much as I was hoping it would. We took a trip to the ocean and O loved it, and then hit a growth spurt/sleep regression and the trip became less about enjoying the water. In the end, the best part of the trip was taking her to the Boston Aquarium and watching her talk to the penguins. It was a humbling reminder that the best-laid plans are really only good intentions.
• will design and publish a baby sweater! This happened, in fact, I designed a few things this year including two cowls, a pair of fingerless mitts, socks, and a shawl. Don’t ask me where I found the time!
• will make. So many items flew off my knitting needles this year, I’m honestly not sure where I found the time and know there are more projects in my future.
• will keep trying new things. I started a new job, does that count? What about caulking a window? This goal was created without realizing how many new things would be forced upon me as a new parent, it’s amazing how I suddenly understand the appeal of a vacation when someone else plans the itinerary and you just show up.
• will journal and/or sit with myself more. Neope. I even attempted to meet this goal by putting together a book of photos and whatnot of our first year as parents. I think I learned that my reflection happens while my hands are busy with other things and that that’s ok. I’m learning to let go of the romantic idea that my life should be documented and that I need to process everything on paper.