Sunsets, Shells, and a Promise to Myself

On Living More Intentionally This Year

This year I have made a small but significant promise to myself: to live more intentionally, and to say yes to the things that both scare and excite me.

I spent New Year’s Eve of 2025 on Sanibel Island with one of my very best friends — no big plans or parties, just the sound of the ocean and the feeling of being exactly where I wanted to be. On New Year’s Day, I went swimming in the ocean, ate oysters (one of my favorite foods), and we walked on the beach looking for shells as we watched the sun sink slowly below the horizon. It was perfect in a quiet, unshowy way, and the best possible start to the year ahead.

What This Means for the New Year

Now, I know that not every day can be a glorious beach day — most days are ordinary, busy, and a little messy — but this year, I want to carry that same spirit into my everyday life: paying attention, choosing courage over comfort, and making space for the moments that feel special.

If nothing else, I hope 2026 meets us all gently, and that we find ways, big or small, to step toward the things that light us up.

This promise is shaping my writing in ways I didn’t expect — more on that soon.

If you’d like to follow along with my writing progress this year, you can join my newsletter for behind-the-scenes updates and early sneak peeks.

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