January F.O.C.U.S

This year, I'm starting a new ritual: looking back and preparing ahead through monthly F.O.C.U.S. reflections.

Favorites: Best moments/things
Outings: Places I went or experiences had
Challenges: Difficulties faced
Uplifts: What energized me
Shifts: Changes I’m making

(Inspired by Jeanelle Teves' Weekly R.E.P.O.R.T.)

Favorites: The wax seal and book stamp became unexpected sources of satisfaction this month. In a career built on digital products, there's something grounding about physical rituals like stamping finished books and sealing letters with actual wax. Small acts that insist on permanence in an increasingly ephemeral world.

Outings: The State Library of NSW turned out to be exactly what was needed: serious architecture, focused energy, and surprisingly good coffee within reach. A place that inspires deep work feel rather than forced.

Challenges: New job, new routines. Fitting in workouts, tennis lessons, and office days required some recalibration. Not particularly difficult, just the ordinary work of building new habits until they stop feeling new.

Uplifts: The post-holiday reconnection. After weeks of quiet, I made intentional reach-outs to people I cherish. Long conversations over pizza, visiting a good friend's place, picnic despite the unusual chill, and new connections that felt promising.

Shifts: Added strength training and cycling to my usual Pilates routine. Working with a coach now, focusing on building power and stamina. The best part? I'm doing this with my husband, keeping each other accountable to staying fit and healthy. Here's hoping it's not one of those New Year commitments that quietly fade by March.