My Year in Review - 2024

When I take the time to write a post like this it forces me to reflect. This year, it became tangibly evident to me the goodness of God. I could see Him every morning as I watch the sunrise, see deer crossing the street, or see the seasons change. I felt Him during the most mundane tasks giving me a heavenly nudge - call this person, write this thought, use this technology to solve a problem. I heard Him through prayer, and others that he placed in my path. This year I felt a softening in my spirit; I don't know what to make of it, but I like it.

1. What did you do in 2024 that you’d never done before? 

I went to Essencefest in New Orleans with my cousins. It was something that I’d wanted to do since I was in my 20s. I loved it and would love to go again.

2. Did you keep your New Year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year?

I don’t typically make new year’s resolutions and probably wont for 2025. However a theme becomes evident as I journey through the year and I try to hold on to that.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?

No; but someone close to me is expecting.

4. Did anyone close to you die?

Yes; my dad passed on December 13th of this year. Though I anticipated his death because of his health, I was caught off guard when I received the call. I may still be wrestling with this.

5. What countries did you visit?

Barbados.

6. What would you like to have in 2025 that you lacked in 2024?

Restoration of certain relationships.

7. What dates from 2024 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?

Friday December 13th when I received a call from my youngest brother at 2:44pm that my father passed away at 1:59pm.

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?

I earned my project management professional (PMP) certification and I started a new role that (finally) seems to be the perfect for my skills and personality.

9. What was your biggest failure?

I never know how to answer this because I don't fixate failure, but on what it leads to. Failure provides an opportunity for growth.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury? 

Getting old is no joke. I’ve had problems with my blood pressure this year and problems with my feet that affected my ability to walk and exercise. As the year comes to an end, these things are no longer an issue.

11. What was the best thing you bought?

I love my house so it would be the things I’m curating to create a certain look and feel.

12. Where did most of your money go?

A lot of fun money went towards me - massages, manicures, pedicures, braiding hair.

13. What did you get really excited about?

My birthday trip to Barbados. At the beginning of this year I expressed a desire to go to Barbados because this country has a serenity that I need. This trip was a gift from my family which also allowed me to connect with my family in Barbados. My brother was so excited about me getting there that I was excited by his excitement.

14. What song will always remind you of 2024?

Calming Sleep Music on Spotify

The Goodness of God - Cece Winans

15. Compared to this time last year, are you:

Happier or sadder? It varies but I’m more happy than sad.

Thinner or fatter? Fatter, can you believe it?

Richer or poorer? Richer.

16. What do you wish you’d done more of?

Be more in the moment and off my phone.

17. What do you wish you’d done less of?

Overthink.

18. How did you spend Christmas?

With my family; I enjoyed my day. The children and grandchild came over; we ate too much and got to know each other better. When it comes to family, immediate or extended there's always something new I learn especially if I'm willing to listen.

19. What was your favorite TV program?

Love is Blind because I watched it with my daughter. I don’t think I have a favorite show. I like Chopped, Holiday Baking Champion, Family Feud, and Jeopardy.

20. What were your favorite books of the year?

According to Goodreads, I read 22 books this year. One of my favorites was The Swans of Harlem by Karen Valby. I also enjoyed The Mother Act by Heidi Reimer and Neruda on the Park by Cleyvis Natera. The Garden Within by Dr. Anita Philips was radical and perhaps life changing.

21. What was your favorite music from this year?

 Gospel; it will always be gospel.

22. What were your favorite films of the year?

Bad Boys: Ride or Die - I died with laughter in the theater.

23. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?

I was in Barbados on the beach relaxing; I even went jet skiing; then I had dinner with my family. It was one of the better birthdays.

24. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?

Deeper relationships.

25. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2024?

Grandma chic

26. What kept you sane?

Pray, reading, exercise. I also started journaling and meditating and that has been helpful.

27. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2024.

Surrender is essential for discovering new facets of yourself. Surrender meant I gave up the illusion of control. Surrender meant I spent more time being still. Surrender allowed me to hear from God in new ways. Surrender quieted my brain and brought me peace. Surrender shifted my mindset to one of gratitude. Surrendering is something I will take with me throughout the new year.

This blog has weathered some storms this year, but it is still here. I am grateful for every reader, every like, every share, every comment, and email. Dear reader, you encourage me by taking the time to read what God has laid on my heart. Be encouraged.

If you love my writing, I hope you'll purchase a copy of my book - The Comfort of Night. 

May your days be merry and bright. Have a wonderful year.

--Nylse

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