Welcome back to Blogmas 2023! Continuing through Christmas Day, expect to find some fun and informative holiday themed blog posts here at The Confusing Middle. For Day 19, we’re coming to the end of the year and it’s only natural to take a moment to reflect on the highs, the lows, and the unexpected turns that shaped our journey. Join me as I unpack the chapters of my life in 2023, a year filled with laughter, tears, and everything in between.

Kicking off the year, I found myself settling into the groove of the job I started in the final quarter of 2022. Let me tell you, the initial jitters evolved into genuine love for what I do. Every day became a new adventure, and the challenges I faced only fueled my passion for the work. It’s amazing how a fulfilling job can set the tone for an entire year.

In the midst of work deadlines and podcast recordings, a fluffy ball of joy entered my life – Krypto, my four-legged companion. The best good boy in the world, Krypto has brought with him boundless joy and unconditional love. His antics have become a source of daily smiles, a reminder that sometimes, life’s simplest pleasures can have the most profound impact.

Speaking of smiles, recording “The Y’Know Show” with my cousin continued to be a highlight of my week. Our little passion project evolved into something more significant, as we have attempted to connect with listeners who share our quirky sense of humor and zest for life. If you haven’t tuned in yet, consider this your official invitation. Trust me, you’re missing out on a good time!

As life goes on, so does the inevitable cycle of loss. This year, I bid a heartfelt goodbye to my 91-year-old grandmother, a remarkable woman who faced breast cancer with unparalleled courage. Though her passing left a void, her legacy lives on in the cherished memories we shared. In moments of grief, we find the strength to celebrate a life well-lived.

As the curtain falls on 2023, I find myself surprisingly optimistic about the future. Despite the inevitable bumps along the road, this year has been a testament to resilience, growth, and the beauty of embracing life’s uncertainties. With genuine anticipation, I welcome whatever 2024 has in store, confident that each experience will contribute to the ongoing tapestry of my life.

In closing, I’d love to hear your reflections on the past year. What were your highs and lows? Any lessons learned or unexpected joys? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s embark on this journey of self-discovery together. After all, life’s greatest stories are written not in isolation, but in the shared narratives of a supportive community. Cheers to the adventures that await us in the new year!

Feature Photo by Engin Akyurt