i think this might be the year of trying new things

This probably should have been a New Year’s day post, but then again, I hadn’t thought then what I think now: it’s The Year of Trying New Things! I’m excited by this realization because I am a person who generally loathes change. Rather, I crave comfort and stability, while change makes me nervous and uncomfortable. But I’ve noticed that even the tiniest shift makes way for bigger, sometimes better, things.

I’ve started running. It.Is. Hard. Running with the proper form, i.e. not landing on your heel, doesn’t come naturally to me, so this is a challenge because a.) I’m very aware of maintaining the correct posture and b.) I’m very much out of shape. My calves have never felt so sore. But! I like it. I can’t speak to how I’ll feel about it in a few months, as I have a tendency to get bored easily, but for now, I’m enjoying the workout. Plus, running in the fresh air beats slogging away on the soulless elliptical any day. Now, if the weather could just get a little warmer…

Journaling isn’t so much a new thing as it is something I’m picking up again. I’m hoping to gain more self-awareness and insight while I’m at it, but mostly I’m happy just knowing the memories that are too easily forgotten will be preserved on paper. It’s also freeing to know that I don’t have to adhere to any grammar rules or structure!

Every week, I like to cook something new for dinner. There’s no shortage of amazing food blogs, so I’m constantly inspired to try new and creative ideas. This week, I’m obsessed with this healthy food blog and I’ll be making her Raw Taco Fiesta tonight! Usually, the meals result in deliciousness. Occasionally, I’m disappointed, like the time I attempted pad Thai or that one-pan coconut noodle bowl thing. I guess Thai food just isn’t my strongest suit.

I’m taking on more responsibility at work. I have mixed feelings about it. On one hand, I don’t aspire to be in a position of power or managing people. I’m a loner and prefer to be responsible for my own work. It’s also largly due to the fact that I already feel challenged every day. On the other hand, I like learning new tasks, as it makes me feel smarter, more competent and better able to perform confidently. Bonus: more responsibility has really paid off ;)

Bob and I will be moving from our first apartment together, maybe this year or the next. It’s bittersweet. We’re looking for a bigger space with more amenities. A washer and dryer on the premises is my dream! That will be a welcome change. Most likely, this won’t be in Astoria, where we currently live (and love) and I’m slowly coming to terms with that. Whether it be New Jersey (it will likely be New Jersey) or another part of Queens remains to be seen.

After feeling closed off and a little lazy for so long, I’m learning to open my mind more to possibilities in the present. This year so far has me feeling grateful and hopeful.