Woman riding bike on dirt path


Hi there! Today’s introspective post is a little different than usual. Back in the day, when I ran a laid-back kayaking/biking blog (2008-2009), I would reflect at year’s end about lessons learned while exploring the outdoors.

Those days are behind me — but I still feel drawn to share a year-end personal reflection. This one has nothing to do with living greener or more sustainably — it’s just random thoughts, some serious and some not. Hope you find something that resonates with you!

Be sure to leave a comment to let me know if anything strikes you or feel free to share some of your own. I’d love to hear from you.

  • Just because I have an opinion about something, doesn’t mean I’m obligated to share it or that anyone wants to hear it.
  • When something bad happens to someone we love, we don’t need to find the perfect thing to say or do, we just need to say or do something.
  • Allowing myself to be vulnerable leads to more authentic relationships.
Man kayaking on quiet water
  • I can read online reviews before buying, but in the end, I should trust my own instincts — and always check the return or cancellation policy.
  • Dark chocolate can smooth over a rough spot in any day.
  • Curiosity is one of my superpowers, but I need to use it wisely.
  • I don’t need to stay plugged into the 24/7 news cycle to be well-informed. One-hour-a-day from a well-chosen source is sufficient.
  • The Shark lightweight cordless vacuum is a design masterpiece and one of the easiest ways to do a quick clean-up.
  • There’s nothing on TV that can compete with a bright and clear night sky filled with celestial bodies. I’m incredibly lucky to have a front-row seat.
  • It’s okay to ask for and accept help. In fact, sometimes it’s absolutely necessary.
  • Never underestimate the value of holding and reading real books. They seem to leave a bigger imprint on my heart and mind than the digital version.
  • My local library still has the power to evoke the magical feeling I had as a five-year-old, when I got my first library card.
  • When health problems start to plague you and you’re waiting for answers, remember the cells in your body are renewing themselves at an astounding rate of about 30 billion a day.
  • I still can’t be trusted with a big bag of twizzlers.
  • Always take time to soak in happy moments so they become etched in your memory. You have to savor them before you can revisit them.
  • If you think something nice about a person, tell them right then.
  • Travel, despite all the headaches today, is still one of the best ways to recharge my spirit. I don’t have to travel far to reap the benefits.
  • If you don’t actively nurture it, love will fade. This is true for partners, friends and family.
  • I should always look first for the easiest path; otherwise I’ll inevitably overcomplicate things.
  • Sometimes you can save too many cardboard boxes. Believe you’ll have the right one when you need it and if not, the sky won’t fall.
  • I almost never regret making a phone call over texting or emailing. There’s something special about hearing a person’s voice.
  • Time spent in nature is never wasted. It heals, restores and renews me — and is much cheaper than therapy.
  • Clutter is a mindset of scarcity. When I struggle to toss or recycle something, it’s because I’m afraid I won’t be able to replace it, if needed. Lose the fear, clear the clutter.
  • My true friends are the ones who have been there for me this past year when I felt I had nothing to offer because I was too tired, sick or discouraged.
  • Never underestimate the power of a person to grow and change for the better. Even the people you spend the most time with and have come to know intimately can surprise you — if you are open to seeing it.

I am not a licensed nutritionist, medical professional or cosmetics expert. The information provided on Honest + Simple is for general informational purposes only. The statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food + Drug Administration and are not intended to treat, prevent or cure any disease. Before making decisions about your health or other concerns, please consult a qualified professional and do not rely on this website for medical advice.

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4 Comments

  1. Well, this is how I truly know we are sisters! I cannot be trusted with a bag of twirlers either, no matter the size!
    Also to your first comment, I had a saying on my digital picture frame at work – “When I want your opinion, I’ll give it to you”

    1. Yes, we are definitely sisters — especially when it comes to twizzlers and giving advice, it seems. Thanks for reading, Jeanne, and for taking time to comment.

  2. These truths are so refreshing. I particularly loved the truth about making sure that if you think something nice about someone to tell them right away. Thank you for sharing!

    1. Hey, Craig,
      So good to see you here. (Sorry for my delayed response.). I’m glad you found something here resonates with you. Thanks for taking time to comment. It means a lot!

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