When I see social media posts of gatherings or parties, it brings up a strange mix of feelings. I wouldn't say it's FOMO. It’s more a reminder that I’m not really part of those circles. And yet, I don’t wish I were there. There’s a combination of relief and longing when I’m not invited. Part of me is glad to skip situations where I might feel awkward, but another part still wants to feel included.
I completed the 13th annual Melting Mann this past Saturday, my first gravel race of the year. It was a sunny but cold day, with temps in the low 30s. Heading into the event, I worried about the weather, if I'd packed the right gear, and the difficulty of the hills.
Procrastination can be a stress response or a form of avoidance. While fear can play a role, I’ve recently realized how information overload can turn into procrastination. Sometimes I'm not avoiding a task, I'm overwhelmed by it.
It’s funny how easily we take everyday conveniences for granted... until one of them suddenly disappears. A garbage disposal, for example, isn’t something you think much about until it stops working.
As 2025 comes to a close, I do what I usually do: I pause to reflect and take stock of the past year. Across the new things I tried, what I accomplished, and the highs and lows, themes of travel, cycling, work, and resilience stand out. Through it all, I’m grateful for the experiences that shaped 2025.