It’s almost summer, and most people are taking a break from work and heading off on holiday. I’m not one of those people this year. I’ll be working all summer, but I don’t really mind because the overall vibe is much more relaxed. I’ll probably still have plenty of time to unwind and do some fun things.

After all, it’s summer! Even though I have to work, I still want to make the most of the season and enjoy myself. That’s why I decided to create my Summer Bucket List for 2026. It’s a list of fun activities, small goals, and experiences I want to enjoy over the next few months. Just because I’m not going on holiday doesn’t mean I can’t have an amazing summer.

My Summer Bucket List

1. Thrift Shopping
   One thing I always love to do is visit thrift stores. Most of the time, you won’t find anything special, but every now and then, you come across an amazing find, and that’s what makes thrifting so much fun. Usually, I visit the same thrift stores over and over again, but lately I’ve been thinking about taking a long bike ride into the city and exploring some different ones. I have a feeling that the thrift stores in the city will be much more interesting than the small-town shops I’m used to.
   
   I’m currently looking for a few specific clothing items, but as always, I can’t resist checking out the book, CD, and DVD sections. You never know what hidden gems you might find.
   
2. Reading
   I’m reducing my screen time, and I definitely don’t want to spend my summer glued to my phone. That’s why I’ve made a long list of books I want to read over the next few months. I’ve added a mix of romance, dark romance, and thrillers, so I can always pick a book that fits my current mood.
   
   Reading is one of my favorite hobbies because it has genuinely changed my life. It helps me slow down, relax, and escape from the constant distractions of everyday life. I also notice a huge difference in my sleep when I read before bed instead of scrolling on my phone. I fall asleep more easily, sleep better, and wake up feeling much more refreshed. For me, there’s no better way to spend a quiet summer evening than with a good book.
   
3. Walk
   Of course, I don’t want to spend all my time indoors. I also want to enjoy the (hopefully) warm and sunny weather. I love taking walks around the neighborhood and seeing what everyone else is up to. There’s something relaxing about strolling through the streets and simply observing everyday life.
   
   I’m also lucky to live close to nature, so I can easily go for a longer walk whenever I feel like it. Whether it’s through the countryside, a park, or a quiet trail, being outside always helps me clear my mind and recharge.
   
   And, of course, walking is the best way to meet the neighborhood cats. You never know which furry friend you’ll run into along the way, and honestly, that’s one of my favorite parts of going for a walk.
   
4. Build a Lego Set
   I have never built a LEGO set before, but I really want to give it a try. Hopefully, I won’t get addicted, because LEGO is definitely not the cheapest hobby. Still, I absolutely love the Stitch and Angel LEGO sets. Those building sets are very high on my wishlist.
   
   I think LEGO is the perfect hobby for rainy days. It seems like a fun and relaxing way to spend an afternoon, especially when the weather isn’t great and you feel like staying indoors. Plus, there’s something satisfying about creating something piece by piece and seeing it come together in the end.
   
5. Coloring
   For my birthday in May, I got a lot of coloring books because I specifically asked for them. I love being able to sit outside in the shade and just color for a few hours. It’s such a simple, relaxing activity that helps me slow down and enjoy a quiet moment.
   
6. Write
   I also want to write more. I really love writing, whether it’s for my blog or for creating fictional stories. I definitely want to write more fiction, because it has been on my to-do list for a long time, and I have so many story ideas.
   It’s time to actually start putting them into words and maybe, eventually, publish them somewhere if I feel they are good enough.
   
7. Diy/Crafting
   I also want to be more creative again. The other day, I realized that I’m barely creative anymore. I want to create more and consume less. Creating a bullet journal sounds fun, and I’ve also thought about trying knitting. I’m not sure which creative activity I’m going to pick yet. Maybe I’ll even paint a wall a different color. Who knows!

Photo by Perfecto Capucine on Unsplash

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I think I might have finally hit my quarter-life crisis. It happened not too long ago. I started thinking about my life, and I realized that this isn’t the life I wanted. Every day was exactly the same. I would wake up at 7, work from 9 until 7 or later, then come home, have dinner, read a little, and go back to bed at 10. I’ve been living like this for years. I wasn’t just living at all. I was just surviving.

I have to admit that this kind of routine isn’t great if you want to have a social life. My social life is practically nonexistent. And it’s not because my job is so amazing, it really isn’t. It’s just how I grew up. I was taught that I should do nothing because that was considered lazy.

But honestly, the moment I started reflecting on my life, I realized that I don’t even like it that much. As I mentioned, my social life is gone, I’m not the biggest fan of my job, and everything else just feels… meh. I understand that some unpleasant things are simply part of life. But I still have the power to make different decisions. I can choose myself: work fewer hours, rebuild my social life, and do all the things I’ve always wanted to do.

That’s why I decided to start posting on Substack again. I want to write about this journey of self-discovery and wanting to change my life. Another reason is that I think it would be fun to keep a diary of it all.

Sure, my life won’t change overnight. But that doesn’t mean I can’t take the first step toward my dream life today. One of the things I definitely want to improve is reducing doomscrolling and getting better sleep.

Photo by Dwidiyo Hanung on Unsplash

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Christmas is over, and 2026 is around the corner. This time of year is the perfect moment to reflect on the past year and think about what you want in the year ahead. Who do you want to be in 2026? What wasn’t really working for you? What went wrong this year? These are a few questions I asked myself. Eventually, I made a list of things I am leaving behind in 2025.

Things I am Leaving Behind In 2025

Negative self-talk
I started paying attention to what I was actually thinking, and that’s when I realized how negative my thoughts often are. I had negative thoughts about myself and about life in general. I know I won’t change that overnight, but I’m going to do my best to start thinking more positively about myself. I am much more capable than I think. I want to stop being so hard on myself — it’s really not necessary.

Doomscrolling
Compared to some other people, my screen time wasn’t that bad. My average screen time was around 4 to 5 hours every single day. Even though that might be below average, I still think it’s way too much — especially when I realized that most of that time was spent doomscrolling. It won’t be easy to stop, but I’m going to try. I’m keeping my social media apps because I enjoy creating content, but I’ll only use my phone for content creation or staying in touch with friends and family — not for mindless scrolling.

Toxic people
I’ve had enough of people who drain my energy. I’ve tried so hard to change them, but this year I finally realized that I never will be able to. What I can control is how I respond. I can walk away from toxic relationships. In 2026, I’m choosing myself. I want to live in peace and surround myself with people who respect me, care about me, and love me. I deserve that.

Comparing myself to others
Social media can be fun, but it also has its downsides — and comparing yourself to others is one of them. Sometimes I think someone is prettier than me, happier than me, or has something I want, and I feel jealous. But I am already good enough. And just because someone only posts selfies and is always smiling doesn’t mean they’re actually happy. They can still struggle with depression or anxiety.

Procrastinating
I procrastinated a lot this past year, and I’m done with that. Now that it’s the end of 2025, I’m already making sure I stay focused. I make daily to-do lists and still leave room for fun, because balance is important. But I’m done putting things off — I’m working on my dreams.

Overconsumption
To be honest, I bought quite a few things this year that I didn’t really need. Some of them were beauty items I never used. Whenever I saw something cute or pretty, I felt the urge to buy it. In 2026, I want to be more mindful. I’ll only buy things I truly love. No impulse buying. If I see something I like, I’ll put it on a wishlist — and if I still want it after weeks or months, then maybe I’ll buy it.

Trying to change others
Like I mentioned before, I’m someone who wants to help when I see people struggling. But people can only change if they want to. Otherwise, it won’t work. I’m no longer wasting my energy trying to fix others unless they ask for help.

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It’s December, and that means a new season has officially begun. It is officially winter. Winter is my least favorite season because of the endless grey skies and the lack of sunlight. But this year, I’m trying to stay a little more positive. This winter, I’m focusing on myself: taking care of my mind and body, and making more time for fun. So this a list of things I want to do this winter.

Things I want to do this winter

Celebrate Christmas: December means the holiday season, and I am so ready for it. I love everything about this time of year and the cozy vibe that comes with it.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve: The last day of the year might be my favorite. It’s always a very cozy and lazy day. I’m going to watch some fun movies and read a bit. Instead of making a full meal, we’re going to make a charcuterie board like we do every year, eat ice cream, and snack on a few treats. At midnight we watch the fireworks, and then go to bed around 2 or 3.
Christmas Markets: December also means Christmas markets, and I’m planning to visit two this year.
Enjoy My Work-Free Weeks: From December 6 until the end of the month, I can do whatever I want, whenever I want. No work. Just Christmas movies all day if I feel like it.
Walk More: I want to go for a walk every single day during my vacation, and hopefully continue the habit afterward.
Less Screen Time: I’m addicted to my phone, and it’s hard to stay off it. I’m planning a few intentional moments each day when I can check my phone for a couple of minutes.
Read a Lot: Since I want to spend less time on my phone, I’ll probably have more time to read. And during my vacation, I’ll have plenty of time for books.
Declutter: I want to get rid of things I no longer like or use. This time of year is perfect for cleaning your whole space and starting 2026 fresh.
Make a Vision Board: I do this every year. I make a vision board with Canva and use it as the wallpaper on my phone, tablet, and laptop so I see it all the time.
Create the Perfect Wardrobe: I want to go through all my clothes, donate the items I won’t wear anymore, and maybe add a few new pieces. My style has changed, and I still have items from years ago. I want more basics.
Take Winter Photos: If we’re lucky, we might get some snow. And even though I don’t love the cold, I do love how magical everything looks when the world is covered in white. I love taking photos of snowy days.
Stay Focused on My Goals: I have good and bad days, and that’s normal. But on the bad days, I often forget about my healthy new habits and slip back into the old version of myself.
Create a Gratitude Journal: I always hear people talk about keeping a gratitude journal. I want to try it and see if it actually helps my mental health.
Watch the Winter Olympics: I always love watching the Olympics. I’ll probably watch speed skating and short track because those are my favorite winter sports, but maybe I’ll try watching a few others as well.

Photo by Bryony Elena on Unsplash

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Hey you!

It feels surreal to be typing up a blog post again. If you’ve been following me on social media, you already know I haven’t exactly disappeared. I’ve still been active on TikTok and Instagram, sharing quotes, relatable moments, little joys, and the occasional haul or aesthetic post. But something’s been missing — and that something is this. Writing.

Blogging has always been a space where I can slow down and reflect, not just scroll and post. It’s where I can truly be myself, share stories behind the scenes, go deeper than a 60-second video, and connect with you in a way that feels more personal. And after taking a break (or… maybe a detour?), I’ve realized just how much I’ve missed it.

So, here we are — back at it.

And since I’ve grown and changed a little (okay, a lot) since the last time I was consistently blogging, I figured a reintroduction was in order. Whether you’ve been following me for years or just recently stumbled upon this corner of the internet, here are 10 fun, personal, and maybe a little random facts about me to kick things off!

10 Facts about me

1. I have way too many hobbies
Well, maybe the real problem is that I just don’t have enough time for all of them. I love watching Netflix to relax, reading lots of books, and I recently bought some cute coloring books. I also have a ukulele that I still need to learn how to play. Other things I enjoy include scrolling through Pinterest and giving myself spa treatments at home (clay masks, doing my nails, etc.). And of course, I’ve decided to add another hobby to my already very long list. My birthday is at the end of May, and I thought it would be a great idea to ask for money so I can buy the Nintendo Switch 2. I really want to play Mario and Animal Crossing: New Horizons.

2. I mostly watch and read romance
Honestly, 99% of the content I consume is romance—books, shows, and movies. I just love the happy vibes it gives me. There’s something so comforting and heartwarming about watching or reading people fall in love. It makes me genuinely happy.

3. Trying lots of new things
I stayed in my comfort zone for such a long time, and for a while, I was okay with that. But now I’m craving new experiences. I’ve been trying new recipes and foods, attending events by myself, and more—and surprisingly, I’m actually enjoying it. Sure, I might discover that I don’t like certain things, but at least I can say I tried.

4. I have a creative mind
Yes, I have way too many thoughts during the day, but some of them are actually fun! I create random stories in my head (I really need to start writing them down—maybe on Wattpad?). I also make up silly songs while doing things around the house. If you’ve ever watched New Girl, you’ll know how Jess (Zooey Deschanel) does that—yeah, I do the same. My mind is always coming up with something new, whether it’s a goofy song, a story idea, or content for my blog and socials.

5. I want to learn new languages
Again, time is the issue. I know I can’t become fluent overnight, but I’d love to improve my French and German, and also learn Spanish and Italian. I try to use Duolingo every day—it’s tough to remember, but somehow I’ve managed to keep a 814-day streak (as of May 1st)!

6. I love many things about Italy
Even though I’ve never been to Italy (hopefully soon!), I already love so much about it. First of all: the food. I could probably live on Italian food for a year and be totally fine. I also love the language (which is why I want to learn it). Italian music sounds absolutely beautiful, even if I have no idea what they’re singing about.

7. I have a very strict sleep routine
I’ve dealt with sleep issues for years. There was a time when I barely slept for months—it seriously affected my mental health. I had a few meltdowns, usually late at night. But now I finally have a routine that kind of works. I avoid screens after 8:30 PM (except for my e-reader), go to bed at the same time every night, and try not to overthink. After 8 PM, I start winding down with journaling, writing a to-do list for the next day, and doing some self-care. Then I read in bed. I also sometimes take magnesium supplements to help me sleep deeper.

8. I had a small role in a music video
Okay, the band doesn’t exist anymore, but it was such a cool experience! Yes, there was a lot of waiting around between takes, and we had to do multiple retakes. It was a super long day—I started in the morning and didn’t get home until after midnight. But I had so much fun and would definitely do it again. I’ve been thinking about getting into that kind of thing again, even if it’s just as an extra.

9. I can be a little bit old school
I bought a CD player last year and honestly, I love listening to my CDs. Sometimes I like to go offline for a day or two—which means no Spotify, no scrolling. I have a Galaxy S24, but I mostly use it to create content. That’s why I sometimes reply to texts late. I’m working on having a healthier relationship with my phone, so I check messages only about 3–4 times a day.

10. The perfect day
My perfect day would look something like this: I wake up between 7 and 8 AM, walk to the supermarket to grab some delicious bakery treats (and get a bit of exercise), then come home and read a cute romance novel in the garden while doing some self-care (face mask, painting my nails). In the early afternoon, I’d go out and do something fun—maybe visit a thrift store, a bookshop, or just go shopping. Later, I’d head home, eat something Italian for dinner, and watch an episode of whatever show I’m currently into. I’d end the night with a little snack (cheese or chocolate, depending on my mood), turn off all screens after 8 PM, and read before bed.

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I’ve struggled with terrible insomnia for the past few years, and it was driving me crazy. But after experimenting with different evening routines, I finally found one that actually works. Now, I fall asleep quickly, and when I wake up, I feel refreshed and energized—something I never thought would be possible. If you’re also struggling with insomnia or just looking to improve your nighttime routine, I hope sharing mine might help. Of course, everyone is different, but maybe some of these habits will help you fall asleep faster too!

My Cozy Evening Routine

Getting Comfy

I usually get home between 7:30 and 8:00 PM, quickly grab something to eat, and then start my evening routine. The first step? Getting comfy. Pajamas, Snuddie, jogging pants—anything warm and cozy. There’s just something about changing into soft, oversized clothes that instantly helps me unwind.

Simple Beauty Routine

My evening skincare is pretty minimal. I cleanse my face with water and a gentle cleanser, then apply either a vitamin C cream or my retinol serum—most of the time, I go with retinol. Sometimes, I take a few extra minutes to massage my face with my hands, a gua sha stone, or a face roller. Since I tend to clench my jaw a lot, this really helps relax my muscles. As for the rest of my body, I prefer showering in the morning, but I always apply some body lotion before slipping into my cozy clothes.

Setting the Mood

I love creating a cozy atmosphere—it makes relaxing even easier. I usually light a candle (there’s something so calming about watching the flame flicker), make a cup of tea, and grab a blanket. Chamomile is my go-to for sleep, but I switch it up depending on my mood. And yes, I’m one of those people who use a blanket year-round. Cozy vibes are non-negotiable!

Planning for the Next Day

Once I’m fully relaxed, I like to make my to-do list for the next day. I’m not the best at estimating how much I can get done—I either overestimate or underestimate—but I’ve learned to be flexible. If I don’t finish everything, I just roll it over to the next day. No stress. I prefer writing my list on paper, not because I’m old (haha), but because crossing things off is just so satisfying. Plus, I like spending time offline, and a little notebook helps with that.

Reading & Unwinding

By now, it’s usually around 8:30 or 9 PM, and this is when I shift into turning-my-brain-off mode. I try to start this part as early as possible because I need time to fully unwind. Reading helps me do that. I used to struggle with insomnia because my mind wouldn’t stop overthinking, but this routine has completely changed that. I read for an hour to an hour and a half, and most nights, I fall asleep mid-chapter with my e-reader still in my lap. Bonus: this habit helps me get through so many books! Last year alone, I read 70 books just by sticking to this routine.

And that’s my current evening routine! On weekends, it’s pretty much the same, just a little earlier. Even then, I stick to my 10-10:30 PM bedtime—it’s the best thing I’ve done for my sleep, and if you struggle with falling asleep, I highly recommend keeping a consistent nighttime routine.

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As we step into 2025, I’m focusing on creating healthier habits that will make this year even better. After reflecting on the past year, I realized that small changes can have a huge impact on how I feel physically and mentally. This year, I’m committing to some new healthy habits and revisiting a few old ones that I know work for me. I’m excited to share the habits I’m focusing on in 2025 and how I plan to make them a part of my daily routine. Let’s dive in!

Healthy Habits For 2025

1. Less Time Online

Spending endless hours scrolling through social media or binge-watching shows isn’t just a waste of time—it can also affect my mental health. This year, I’m focusing on spending less time online, especially when it’s unnecessary. Instead, I want to dedicate my free time to hobbies, reading, or spending time in the real world. My goal is to be more intentional with my screen time and focus on quality over quantity.

2. Have More Fun

Life can sometimes feel like a never-ending to-do list, but this year, I want to prioritize fun. Whether it’s exploring new activities, taking spontaneous trips, or simply having a laugh with friends, I plan to make time for things that bring me joy. After all, happiness is essential to overall well-being.

3. Morning Walk on the Weekend

There’s something about starting the day with a walk, especially on the weekend. It’s a great way to clear my mind, enjoy nature, and set a positive tone for the day ahead. I plan to make it a regular weekend habit, no matter the weather.

4. Be More Patient

Patience is a virtue, but it’s not always easy to practice. I’ve realized that being patient, especially with myself and others, leads to a calmer, more balanced life. This year, I want to work on being more patient in everyday situations—whether it’s dealing with stress, waiting in line, or managing my expectations.

5. Breathing Exercises

Breathing exercises are such a simple yet powerful tool for stress relief. I’m committing to practicing deep breathing exercises regularly to help manage stress, stay calm, and improve focus. It’s amazing how something so small can have such a big impact on my mood and well-being.

6. Meditate

Meditation has been on my radar for a while, but this year, I’m making it a priority. Just a few minutes of meditation can help clear my mind, reduce anxiety, and improve my mental clarity. I plan to start with short sessions and gradually increase the time as I get more comfortable with it.

7. Exercise

Exercise is a must for a healthy body and mind, so I’m committing to making it a regular part of my routine in 2025. Whether it’s going for a run, hitting the gym, or practicing yoga, I plan to find activities that I enjoy and stick with them consistently.

8. Spend Time with Friends

Spending time with friends is so important for my emotional health. In 2025, I’m making an effort to nurture my friendships and create more meaningful connections. Whether it’s a simple coffee date or an evening out, I want to make time for the people who matter most.

9. Evening Routine

A consistent evening routine helps me unwind, relax, and prepare for a good night’s sleep. This year, I plan to set aside time each night to focus on self-care, whether it’s reading a book, taking a relaxing bath, or practicing some light stretching before bed.

10. Stretch More or Try Yoga

Stretching is something I often overlook, but it plays a huge role in flexibility, posture, and overall health. Whether it’s a morning stretch routine or trying out some yoga, I want to incorporate more movement into my day to keep my body feeling strong and flexible.

11. Eat Healthier

Eating a balanced diet filled with whole foods is essential for feeling good inside and out. While I don’t plan on completely cutting out treats, I do want to make more mindful choices when it comes to what I’m putting in my body. I’m focusing on more fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins while reducing processed foods.

12. Journaling

Journaling has always been a great way to process my thoughts, reflect on my day, and set intentions. I’m committing to journaling more regularly this year, whether it’s just a few lines in the morning or a reflection before bed. It helps me stay grounded and mindful.

13. More Disciplined

Discipline is key to achieving goals and staying focused. In 2025, I want to be more disciplined in all areas of my life—whether it’s sticking to a workout routine, following through with projects, or simply keeping a schedule. It’s about creating structure and staying committed to what matters most.

14. Drink More Water/Tea

Hydration is essential for maintaining energy levels and overall health. This year, I’m making it a goal to drink more water throughout the day, as well as enjoy calming herbal teas in the evening. It’s a simple habit, but it’s something I often forget to prioritize.

15. Stay Organized

Staying organized helps reduce stress and creates a sense of order in my life. I want to work on organizing my physical space—whether it’s my home, work area, or digital files—so I can stay productive and feel more in control of my environment.

16. Take Care of Myself

Self-care is often the first thing to go when life gets busy, but it’s crucial to make time for myself. In 2025, I’m committing to taking better care of my body, mind, and spirit. Whether it’s through regular skincare, setting aside time to relax, or practicing self-compassion, I want to nurture myself from the inside out.

17. Positive Mindset

A positive mindset can make a huge difference in how I approach life. This year, I want to focus on cultivating more gratitude, staying optimistic, and looking for the silver lining in tough situations. It’s all about shifting my perspective to one of growth and positivity.

By focusing on these healthy habits in 2025, I’m hoping to create a year filled with balance, happiness, and personal growth. It’s not about being perfect, but rather about making small, consistent changes that add up over time. Here’s to a healthier and more fulfilling year ahead!

Photo by Maryjoy Caballero on Unsplash

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Happy New Year, everyone! I hope you all had a wonderful New Year’s Eve, no matter how you celebrated. I honestly can’t believe it’s already 2025—time really flies. I had so much fun in 2024, but of course, I’m planning to make 2025 even better and more exciting. As usual, I’ve made a list of things I want to do this year. This list includes both big goals and smaller ones, and I’m hoping that by the end of 2025, I can say I achieved every single one of them. Let’s get into it!

25 Things I want to do in 2025

1. Read 100 books. In 2024, I read a lot of books—so many that I came pretty close to hitting 100. Most of them were read towards the end of the year when I went on a serious reading spree. The last couple of months turned into a full-on reading sprint! One big reason I got through so many books was because I tried to fix my sleep schedule, and reading for 1-2 hours before bed actually helped me fall asleep better. It became such a relaxing routine. With how things are going, I’m feeling confident that 2025 is going to be my year for hitting the big 100. Let’s do this!
2. Try new things. This year, I’m keeping it simple: I just want to try new things. Whether it’s experimenting with recipes, picking up a new hobby, or doing something totally wild, I’m all in. The goal is to step out of my comfort zone more often and see where it takes me.
3. Spend more time offline. This year, I want to cut back on spending time online when it’s not necessary. I’ve realized how much time I waste scrolling through YouTube or Netflix, watching random stuff I don’t even care about. Instead, I want to focus on reading more and spending time on activities that actually make me feel good. It’s all about being intentional with how I spend my time.
4. More concerts/festivals. I love music (I mean, who doesn’t?), and this year, I’m making it a priority to see more artists live. There’s just something magical about being in the crowd, feeling the energy, and hearing your favorite songs in person.
5. Meet new people. As an introvert, I don’t always seek out new connections, but honestly, it’s always nice to meet new people. This year, I want to step out of my comfort zone and expand my social life a bit. Building connections and making new friends sounds like a challenge worth taking on!
6. Travel more. In 2024, I worked every single day except for the last three weeks, and let me tell you—it was not healthy. This year, I want to be better about taking (short) breaks and actually planning a little trip or two. It doesn’t have to be far or fancy, just something to recharge and enjoy life a bit more. Balance is the goal!
7. Weekly Movie Nights. One of my favorite things in 2024 was my weekly movie nights. There’s just something so cozy and relaxing about curling up on a Saturday afternoon or evening and diving into a good movie. It became such a nice little tradition, and I’m definitely keeping it going this year!
8. Monthly self-care day. I’m planning to dedicate one day every weekend to going completely offline and just doing whatever I feel like. It’s going to be my little self-care day—maybe some skincare, maybe a massage, or just relaxing without any screens. It’s all about taking a break and recharging.
9. Join a club. I’ve been thinking about meeting new people, and one idea I’m excited about is joining a club. I’m not 100% sure what kind yet—maybe a sports club or trying out some classes at the gym. A book club also sounds like a great option. I’m keeping my options open for now, but I’m ready to dive into something fun and social!
10. Stay organized. I’ll admit, I’m not the most organized person in the world—but after how chaotic 2024 was, I’m ready for a change. This year, I want to get my life together, both at work and in my personal life. It’s time to figure out a system that actually works for me and stick to it. Let’s see how it goes!
11. Prioritize Mental Health. I feel like this is a goal everyone should have on their list—prioritizing feeling good. When you’re in a good place mentally and physically, everything else just falls into place. I definitely pushed myself a bit too hard in 2024, so this year, I’m focusing more on taking care of myself and making sure I feel my best. Life’s just easier that way!
12. Improve posture. I’m working on standing up straight with my shoulders back and avoiding slumping. Not only does it feel better, but it also helps with looking more confident. Small change, big impact!
13. Become more disciplined. I’ve definitely had those days where I make a to-do list and somehow end up doing nothing, which makes me fall behind on my work. It’s definitely not ideal. This year, I want to stick to my schedule and actually follow through with my to-do lists. Time to get more organized and stay on track!
14. Spend more time outside. During my break these last few weeks, I realized how much I enjoy spending time outside. While I’m not a fan of the cold and definitely prefer spring and summer, I still made it a point to get fresh air every day. This year, I want to make it a habit to go outside more often—whether it’s for a walk, a bike ride, or just soaking up the outdoors.
15. Exercise and stretch. I’m planning to start exercising in 2025 to make my body stronger and more flexible. I think it’ll also help with my posture, which I’ve been wanting to improve. Time to get moving and build some good habits!
16. Sleep better. This goal definitely ties into becoming more disciplined. Watching Netflix in the evening is fun, but it doesn’t do any favors for my sleep schedule. I want to stop looking at screens two hours before bed. It won’t be easy, but I know it’ll help my mood and energy levels in the long run. Time to stick to this!
17. Learn how to play the ukelele. Last year, I found a ukulele at a thrift store, and I was super excited about it. But once I got it, I barely touched it. It’s definitely something I want to pick up again this year and actually start playing. It’s time to finally learn!
18. Find a bigger apartment. Living in a super small apartment isn’t ideal, so one of my goals this year is to find something bigger. I’m dreaming of a place with more space and room for a normal-sized dining table—so I can actually enjoy meals without feeling cramped!
19. Grow my business. I’m ready to take my business to the next level in 2025. I’ve got so many great ideas, and I can’t wait to share them with the world. It’s time to level up and make it happen!
20. Practice French daily. Right now, I’m practicing my French every day on Duolingo. I started two years ago, and I’m still going strong. I learned French back in high school, but I forgot most of it. If I’m being honest, I think I’ve learned more from Duolingo than I ever did from my high school French teacher. But shh, don’t tell her that!
21. Take a course. For fun this year, I want to learn something new—whether it’s related to my business or just something that sounds interesting. I’m thinking about taking a cooking class or maybe an online course. Nothing specific yet, but I’m excited to explore!
22. Go to more museums/theatres/Musicals. I honestly can’t remember the last time I went to a museum or theater, and I don’t think I’ve ever been to a musical. This year, I want to change that. It’s time to experience more culture and enjoy some live performances!
23. Get rid of things that do not spark joy. This year, I want to focus on letting go of things that no longer serve me. That means getting rid of clothing items I don’t wear anymore, but also stopping things I don’t enjoy (especially if they’re not necessary), and distancing myself from people who bring negativity into my life. It’s all about making space for the things and people that truly make me happy.
24. Go to a sports game. It’s been a while since I last went to a sports game. At first, I was totally done with it—especially on those cold days—but now, I kind of miss it. There’s just something about the energy of the crowd and the excitement that makes it worth it. I’m definitely thinking about going to one again soon!
25. Listen to podcasts. I definitely want to give podcasts a try this year. It feels like everyone’s listening to them, and I’m the only one who isn’t. I’m curious to see what all the hype is about, so I’m planning to find a few that interest me!

These are my goals for 2025. What are your goals?

Photo by Logan Voss on Unsplash

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Happy new season everyone. Are you ready for the Fall season? I know I am. I love spring and summer a lot, but I also like Fall because it is the season to get cozy. Sure, it will also probably mean that it is going to rain the next 8 months, but that doesn’t mean I can’t have fun and enjoy this season.

Things I want to do this fall

Read books
I have a lot of books I want to read this fall and I really hope I can find the time to read most of them. Fall is the perfect season for reading books. I can see myself sitting in my comfy chair or on my couch/bed with a blanket, a cup of tea, and my Kobo e-reader. In general, I love to read romance, but I always pick romance novels that fit the season. So in summer, I mostly read summer romance novels and in fall I read mostly romance with fall vibes.

These are a couple of books I want to read this season:
Pumpkin spice & everything nice – Katie Cicatelli -kuc
The Pumpkin Spice Cafe – Laurie Gilmore
The Cinnamon Bun Book – Laurie Gilmore
My Roommate is a vampire – Jenna Levine
Tricked October – Starla Dekruyf
Her favorite Jack o lantern – Rebecca Rennick

Walk more
I am the kind of person who thinks that fall is one of the most beautiful seasons. Nature is so beautiful and colorful. Every fall I tell myself I am going on more walks, but instead of actually doing it, I stay home instead and use any kind of excuse. But not year! I force myself to go outside for a short or long walk, even when it rains. I bought an umbrella, so I can’t use the rain as an excuse anymore.

Celebrate Halloween
Here in the Netherlands, we don’t really celebrate Halloween. I mean, there are Halloween-themed parties at some places and you can buy Halloween stuff at one store, but it is not a big thing. Not like in the USA at least. I am also one of those people who loves Halloween but doesn’t like horror books/movies. So I celebrate it in my own way with a fun Halloween movie, Halloween candy/food, and read a cute romance novel with a Halloween theme.

Bake more
In summer it can be too warm to bake anything at all. The kitchen gets pretty warm and there is no air conditioning in this house. But in fall it is not too warm but also not too cold. It is the perfect season to bake.
I definitely want to make something Halloween-themed, but I also want to bake some cakes. I am not the biggest fan of pie, but I always like cake.

Watch cozy movies
If it is storming outside, I probably want to stay inside. I mostly like to watch romance, but there are so many great movies to watch in fall.

Cozy movies I want to (re)watch this fall
Sweet Home Alabama
When Harry met Sally
You’ve got Mail
Little Women
Autumn in New York

Learn how to play the Ukelele
So I bought an ukelele this summer, which is pretty cool. I found it at the local thrift store. I’ve always wanted to learn how to play the ukulele. The plan was to learn it over the summer, but it never happened. But I really want to start playing this fall.

Other things I want to do this Fall
And of course, there are more things I want to do this fall. I want to take little trips on my days off, I want to go through my closet and get rid of everything I don’t wear anymore, I want to find a new phone (hopefully a great black Friday deal), and I want to get my space a little cozier since I am probably going to spend a little bit more time inside.

Photo by Thought Catalog on Unsplash

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Hey there, lovely people! Welcome to my little corner of the internet where I spill the tea on all things me. Yep, you read that right – I’m about to share 10 juicy facts about yours truly that you won’t find anywhere else. So grab a cup of your favorite beverage, cozy up, and get ready to dive deep into the wild and wonderful world of moi! Let’s get started, shall we?

10 Facts about me

1. I love Thrift shopping
When I was younger I went to the thrift store with my mother and I did not see the appeal of buying secondhand clothes at the thrift store. But that has changed in the last couple of years. There are several thrift stores where I live and I love visiting one of those stores. I usually don’t buy anything, but sometimes you can find the most incredible things. These days I love to go thrift shopping. Sometimes I find the most incredible fashion items for almost nothing and other times I find a book I really want to read. You have to be patient because you never know if you will find what you are looking for.

2. I love reading
My favorite way to end my day is by reading a book and it really doesn’t matter what kind of book. However, most of the time it is probably some romance novel because I love happy stories. But reading helps me to relax and unwind from my day. It makes me sleepy and I always fall asleep so fast. I love the feeling that a book can take you to a whole other world. I love to curl up on in a chair with a cup of tea and a good book. And I also write book reviews here on my blog

3. I love book shopping
Yes, I have mentioned that I love reading, but shopping for books is just a different experience. There is something exciting about finding new books you really want to buy and eventually read. I remember that we used to have a book event (here in the Netherlands) and it was huge! At this book event, you could buy books with lots of discounts. And it was amazing. I spent so many hours at this place and I would go home with so many books. Unfortunately, they now only sell these books online, because this event was just a fun experience. These days I can also spend a lot of time on social media and find new books I want to read.

4. I love Italian food
I always say that I was born in the wrong country because I love the Italian language, food, music, and lifestyle. Fun fact: I’ve never been to Italy, but I guess I have to change that very soon. For now, I am just enjoying their food and culture from a distance. The food is probably a lot better in Italy, but I guess I will figure that out when I actually go. But honestly, I think can eat Italian food every single day without getting tired of it.

5. I love plants/flowers
I can’t get enough of plants or flowers. Every time, I get plants or flowers for my birthday, I get so happy. Just receiving that as a gift already makes me the luckiest person in this world. They make your apartment more homey and cozier. And it is fun to watch them grow. Sometimes I get plant that are almost dead and I always bring them back to life. And in case you are wondering, my favorite flower is the Gebera Daisy. They are so pretty and they come in so many colors.

6. I love Pinterest
I think I could spend hours on Pinterest just for fun. And I always look for interior inspiration, but also outfit inspiration or Instagram photo inspiration. And when I am really hungry I look up for delicious recipes. It is so easy to make your own boards and organize everything. You can also upload your own photos and links to promote your website or product. But for me, I use it as a moldboard of the things I like and want to manifest.

7. I love Writing
When I write, I get into this flow and I feel really good. Right now, I am writing this blog post, and at the same time I am listening to a great playlist on Spotify and I am really in a good mood. Sure, I have days when I do not have any inspiration but as soon as I start writing random things the words start to flow. Right now, I just write blog posts here on my blog and an occasional caption on Instagram. But in the future, I definitely want to write other things like books.

8. I like listening to music all day long
Maybe this is because my mother used to listen to the radio all the time and I am so used to listening to music all day long, but it puts me in a really good mood. I listen to music when I am writing, or when I am just cleaning. Although, I have to say I can’t listen to music and read books at the same time. But the right kind of music can put me in a good mood immediately and somehow give me a lot of confidence too.

9. I still have a Samsung s8
Even though I am thinking about buying a new smartphone, I still have this older Samsung phone. It still works really well. I just googled that Samsung s8 came out in 2017. I thought it was a lot older because they have been launching a lot of new phones since then. When I get a new phone, I will probably still go for the Samsung phone. It never lets me down and I am pretty clumsy but the screen still has no scratches.

10. I want to travel to New York
For some reason, New York seems fascinating to me and in the last couple of years, I got the idea to travel to New York and that feeling is getting stronger. Maybe I just watch too many movies that take place in New York and maybe I will be disappointed when I am actually there, who knows? I also think it is because I grew up in a small town and the most exciting thing that happened there was the fair that came to town for 4/5 days. And I think you can never get bored in New York because there is always something you can do.

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