2024 has already surprised me. I’m reminded every late Wisconsin winter how much I suppress the uncomfort that builds up throughout the little moments from the year prior. The past few months have welcomed change, without my consent might I add!

I’ve carved a decent amount of quiet time into my schedule lately. I’ve been focusing a lot on what it means to sit with your own company and enjoy it. This has looked like indulging in an afternoon nap, treating myself to a massage, and unapologetically saying no to things I don’t want to do. Within this period of stillness, I have also experienced some heaviness. Actively acknowledging how much in my little world is changing and evolving paired with feelings of hope and confidence in what has yet to come. It feels strange how many feelings can coexist simultaneously.

2024 has been slow. I’ve felt reserved and silent. I’ve felt vulnerable and uncomfortable. I’ve also never felt closer to myself than I do right now… which is freaking awesome! I’ve found that making mistakes can be little blessings in disguise. I’ve also realized that my clothes don’t fit me how they used to and that schoolwork feels never-ending and at times, demeaning. I unfortunately feel more distant than ever from my music and performing, which feels disheartening to even admit. However, I oddly feel at peace with each one of these new changes. It’s like all of these circumstances arrived at my door step in 2023 and I have just recently built up the courage to finally invite them into my home. 2024 has been my opportunity to unpack and relieve these changes that have been patiently awaiting my acknowledgment and energy.

One of the biggest lessons that I am gathering during this season of stillness is that nothing is permanent. I may find a newfound passion for music that I never knew existed, maybe not. Maybe one day my clothes will fit me the way they did two years ago, maybe not. Regardless of the circumstance, I am in control of my reaction. I get to decide what challenges enter my home and which ones are better off staying on the door step. Not every change or challenge needs a reaction, sometimes it just needs to exist until it passes. If you are at all similar to me and struggle with change, I want you to know that you’re not riding solo. I, too, am learning how to embrace the uncomfortability that each day welcomes. Enjoy, indulge, experience all of the feels! They are important and so are you.

Cheers to change!

All my love, Grace.