At the end of December, it’s fun to reflect on memories that made us smile and consider what things we’d like to leave behind as we enter a New Year.

A lot of things made me smile in 2017. Small pieces of gear like a down skirt and a pee funnel. A pair of women’s pants that actually have pockets. Hitting the milestone of 6-years of Turns All Year. There was also that time I wrote a thing that will be printed on beer cans for years to come. In fact, I got to work on a bunch of fun work-related stories and videos this year.

And of course, there’s always the joy I find from skiing in a tutu.

The past year brought some not-so-nice things as well, or rather general adulting that I could do without next year. I moved again, which is never any fun for anyone, and we painted a bunch. I fell off the bandwagon this summer and wasn’t able to keep up with my weekly posting, which disappoints me. I also posted a few blogs that were not well received by everyone. I think, as someone who posts actively about the outdoor experience, it’s irresponsible to ignore the role white privilege (parts 1 and 2) and sexism sometimes plays in our adventures, and I felt compelled to write about my own experiences. I don’t pretend to be an expert, so I am grateful for the feedback – however critical – I received from these posts, and for the lessons I learned as a result.

My friend Becca hosts what she calls a “burning party” near the New Year. We come to the party with an item we’d like to burn which represents something we’d like to let go of as we look ahead. We say a few words, toss it into a small bonfire, and watch it burn away. The feeling at the party is one of sadness, hope, and community. It provides closure to make room for something new.

As I look ahead, I’d like to give up the word “busy” and approach my life in a more mindful way. ‘Busy’ has come to be our answer for everything. “How are you?” “Oh I’m good. Busy.” It’s okay to fill your life with things, but I want to fill my life with things that I find fulfilling enough to actually talk about them, rather than lump them in with a ‘busy’ response. Perhaps I’ll burn a stack of old emails to remind me to make space for what’s most important.

One thing will remain the same though: creating and sending holiday cards. Collections are fun, so here’s a look at my holiday cards back back to when the tradition started. In 2013 I started sending New Years cards, and personally I think that’s when I really came into my own. It’s fun to see how much the designs have evolved over the years. I really do love sending cards.

2010

2009

2008. I hadn’t yet discovered text overlay…

Want a card next year? Awesome! I’d love to send you one! Let me know and I’ll add you to my list, but you have to send me one too! I’ll show you mine if you show me yours.