My goals for the year do not hit me as the calendar flips. I often struggle to set goals in the first month of the year. Life is busy with work and the holidays, and I am burnt out. The best time for me to have a clear head and think is the summer. I wanted to share my focus and goals for the second half of 2025 with you. Perhaps you are starting to dream up your own goals and shift your focus as well.

In France, la rentrée marks the beginning of the school year and the return to work after summer vacation. It is a time to start fresh. Think of the next few months with a fresh set of eyes, what worked and didn’t work for you this year? Would you do more of something?

My Focus is on Three Words and A Fourth Bonus Word

Health is my overall focus for the next couple of months and going into the following year. I have broken it down into three words, and my trainer added in a fourth. The big goal is to have a healthy mind and body. I’m motivated to lose a few pounds, especially with the book launch on October 28th!

Sleep Goals

Sleep is when your body recovers the most, and it is essential for physical, mental, and emotional recovery. I have been wearing an Oura ring and tracking my sleep for over a year and a half. My husband just got on board and also purchased one recently. We can track our sleep and get back on track with a good routine. I love going to bed early and waking up early. Most of my day is spent before noon, dedicated to work and getting in a workout. As the day winds down, my motivation slows, and the shift focuses on prep for dinner and a bedtime routine. I would much rather have a morning workout or meeting vs the afternoon or evening.

My goal is to get at least 8 hours of sleep a night. One of my bad habits is reading on my phone before bed and when I wake up. The Oura ring tells me how much time I spend sleeping and how much time I spend in bed not sleeping. (This includes scrolling, watching TV, and reading something on my phone) I want to reduce this amount of time and work on reading with a cup of coffee or tea outside of bed. The Henri snuggles make this one difficult!

Before bed, I am enjoying a no social media rule (I set for myself) and falling asleep to a podcast or book.

Step Goals

My trainer gave me the big goal of 15,000 steps a day. This is a huge goal as the average number is usually around 10,000. We live in the city, and I am used to walking a lot, but 15,000 steps is still a challenge. For half of the steps (7500), I am wearing a weighted vest. For reference, I have the 8lbs vest. There have been a lot of questions about this via DMs on Instagram. I did my research and decided to go lighter and progressively work into a heavier vest when the time is right.

These are the sneakers I wear for our long walks. They are so comfortable and run true to size.

The walks typically happen early in the morning before the heat sets in. These will change come fall and winter when the weather shifts and it is still dark in the morning. I have enjoyed these walks with Henri, too, and he reminds me to stay off my phone. Walking with a friend or loved one is great motivation too. I have enjoyed switching up my routine and adding friends on my walking route. Getting the blood flowing and ideas bouncing is a great way to kick off the workday.

You may remember me mentioning a walking pad a few times. This is still on my list, but I was put off due to the spring/summer weather.

Stress Goals

While making some adjustments to my eating habits and adding in more protein, I have struggled to move the needle on the scale. It is harder in my 40s than in my 30s to shed weight. Stress is also a factor I needed to consider. Setting boundaries and saying no when I feel I’ve reached my limit is key. This is true in my personal life and at work. Social media has taken a toll on my mental health, and I have stepped back. I have enjoyed the extra walks and getting my body and blood flowing in the morning. Before bed, making a paper list of what is on my mind for the next day helps me be more productive the next morning.

Strength Goals

My trainer sent me a text a few weeks ago, and I told her I was working on my sleep, stress, and steps. She asked me what about my strength? This includes weight training; she has me on a program that I do on my own at the gym. Truth is, I don’t love going to the gym and enjoy Pilates so much more. I am working on a combination of both Pilates and weights a few times a week to increase my strength and help my body age well.

Home Gym Equipment

I have created a space at home with some of my favorite workout equipment, perfect for rainy days or when I’m short on time and want to squeeze in a workout. There is a yoga mat, ball, circle, and I have weights. These adjustable weights are great for when I am doing heavier lifting, and I have lighter handweights if I am doing a Melissa Wood Health strength class.

Workout Clothes I am Loving Right Now

Since I am wearing workout clothes daily for walks, I have added a few new pieces to my wardrobe. The Zella pants from Nordstrom are great and affordable. For Pilates, in the colder months, I wear a Varley zip-up and these socks from Bombas are a favorite.

*This post includes affiliate links. I make a small commission from items purchased from my links. Merci!

The post My Focus for The Second Half of 2025 appeared first on Everyday Parisian.

This year marks nine years of Everyday Parisian. I was recently chatting with my sister about this, and she mentioned this was the same age as my nephew. When I stand back and reflect on the age of the blog, it feels similar to a growing child. There was so much I wanted to happen right out of the gate, but I needed to learn to crawl before I could walk, and now I feel I can run. Slow growth has always been my strategy. I am constantly learning as I go.

This year has seen some significant milestones, including securing my first book deal with Hoffman Media and collaborating with some dream brands. J.Crew was high on my list, and I was able to work with them again this year.

I launched my Substack, something I wanted to do as an extension of The Paris Guide.

Goals For Year Nine

My current big goal is to promote my first book, Paris Every Day. I have some ambitious goals and ideas about where I want to see the book for sale. There is a growing list of bookshops and small businesses that I would love to partner with for book events and community building. Chateau Sonoma is high on my list, POSH (Chicago-based), and I would jump (literally) for joy if my book ended up in Anthropologie.

Also on my short list is a hometown visit to Cincinnati to see my French teacher, Madame Marsh, and I would love to do a book event at Joseph Beth Books, where my dad took us growing up every Sunday.

How I Feel About Year Nine

When I look back and see how much I have accomplished in the past eight years, I am incredibly proud of myself. It took a long time for me to feel that way. I was always searching for validation from others, while it needed to come from me. Today, I dropped off prints and my one copy of Paris Every Day to a small bookshop in our neighborhood. I looked through the window and saw the book, and I had happy tears well up in my eyes. I can’t wait to start this next chapter and meet blog readers along the way.

The book is not just a coffee table book, but my story on how I got started and built my photography business and blog. I hope my story sparks something in you to start something new or find the courage to go after your dreams.

Thank You

This year was filled with growing pains. Adding one more BIG project of the book, along with everything else, made me take a step back on other writing and projects. I am grateful to the Everyday Parisian community signing on every Sunday to read links I love. It is a joy to do each week, and I love hearing from so many of you on the articles that resonated with you, taught you something, and how and where you enjoyed reading each Sunday.

To our UPS guy, Ray, who mails/holds my packages and is the leading resource for shipping each week for The Print Shop. Your whole team is fantastic! To Rachelle and Lauren, who have helped design and update the blog and Print Shop, you are incredibly creative and talented.

Yulia and Katie Donnelly, my two photographers, you both capture me beautifully. I am grateful for your brilliant photography skills, patience, and friendship.

Alyssa, together we wrote an incredible outline for Paris Every Day, which became a foundation for the book. Your support and organization of my creative brain are a gift.

The post 9 Years of Blogging appeared first on Everyday Parisian.

Goals for 2025

It is almost mid-February, and I am publishing my 2025 goals. I never like to jump in at the start of the year and immediately make goals. Finding a focus takes time, as does determining what you want to achieve in the year.

As I read through my 2024 goals, some ideas and values have remained the same, while others have shifted. Not everything on the list below will be accomplished, but the most important thing is growth. I am making progress if I can move the needle in the right direction. Nothing happens overnight. Slow and steady wins the race.

Health Focus: 2025 Goals

I recently put my dance studio membership on hold for something new. Pilates has been something I enjoy, and I love that the studio is a quick walk from home. I can take an early class and return to start the work day with a workout behind me. My sister has gotten into Pilates in the past few months, and I love that we can do it together when I visit and encourage each other to squeeze in a class. While I don’t love it as much, I have been strength training at the gym with weights a few times a week.

I am focusing on protein, less processed foods, and more fresh fruits and vegetables for meals. I wear an Oura ring to track my fitness and sleep, and I sleep better when I eat dinner early.

My husband and I have the routine of long weekend walks with Henri for coffee. We will continue this and look forward to a break in the cold weather.

I am focused on Henri’s health, as he needs to shed a few pounds. I also need to be better about all the extra treats that add up. It is hard to say no to his cute face, but I know it is better for him and his health. I want him to be around for as long as possible.

Mental Health

Each year, I say I want to focus on unplugging one day a week. My mental health and body need this time to rest and be creative. This includes stepping away from social media and the news. I also need to be better about setting boundaries for replying to DMs and emails after regular business hours and on weekends.

Less Clutter

This applies to my inbox and my closet. I need to be better at cleaning out my closet of items I don’t wear anymore and making donations more frequently. We are only in mid-February, and I have done a closet edit twice. I recently saw another blogger mention “shopping her closet.” This idea has stuck with me, and I love challenging myself to rework an item in my closet to restyle and feel new instead of the urge to buy something new.

Building Community for the Blog

My first book launches this October, and I cannot wait. This has been a dream and goal of mine since 2012 (at least)! I cannot wait to share the book with you and meet more of the EDP community in the US and Paris. Stay tuned for more details!

Business Goals

Grow my email list and Substack. This has always been my focus and will continue to be so in 2025. I recently launched a Substack, and I am enjoying the platform and discovering new accounts.

The Paris Guide

I have loved writing The Paris Guide and will continue to update and relaunch it in digital and printed formats. Your valuable feedback has helped make it better each year.

NEW Paris Neighborhood Guides and Itineraries will be added in 2025.

The Print Shop

This year, the Print Shop will be updated to make shopping easier. Rachelle and her design team have hit it out of the park, and I can’t wait to share the fresh look soon.

Stronger Brand Partnerships

In the past year, I have worked with incredible dream brands, such as J.Crew, Frame jeans, Cuyana, and Margaux. I would love to work with these same brands again and build stronger relationships for long-term success.

House Projects 2025 Goals

My husband and I would love to continue to make small changes at home. We don’t have any big plans this year, and I am ok with that. We have a lot going on with the book and launch this year. I have the idea of adding a light fixture in our front room and updating our entryway cabinet if we find the perfect piece. Also, I need to make a black-and-white gallery wall in our hallway.

Stretch Goals for 2025

It feels terrifying to type these stretch goals out and share them publicly.

A New York Times mention of the book or blog.

Make it to one book-ranked best-seller list for a week. (or more) Amazon or NYT.

Anthropologie would be a dream retailer for the book. I would love to walk into a store and see it displayed for sale.

Find an Accountability Buddy

Find an accountability buddy and tell someone your goals. Cheer each other throughout the year and support them on the ups and downs. It is never a straight line, and it is only normal to have setbacks and failures. I struggle with it, and I hope to learn to fail better.

*What are your goals for the new year?

Photos of me by Yulia Sribna and Katie Donnelly Photography

The post 2025 Goals appeared first on Everyday Parisian.

My Favorite Things 2024

1. Oura Ring: My first year swapping mine out from the Apple Watch, and I love mine. I did have an issue with the battery dying at the end of the first year, and so did my SIL. I learned the hard way and missed the year’s warranty. Aside from this, I still love the data in the Oura ring for my cycle, steps, and sleep.

2. Weekend Skin from Iris and Romeo SPF 50 This is a great primer for under makeup or without. I use this often and it gives a great golden glow with protection.

3. Elemis Cleansing Balm: I have dry skin, and this cleansing balm is so helpful year-round. This is my first time using a heavier balm vs a gel cleanser or milk, and it has been a lovely change of pace for my skin. I have just finished my first large container and ordering a second one. The small container is perfect for travel!

4. Glass Water Bottle These are great for the gym and are dishwasher safe. I have multiple and use them daily for the gym. It fits the regular cup holder in the car.

My Favorite Things from 2024

5. Steamer This was a Paris discovery of an amenity offered at a hotel. I immediately ordered it for home with a US plug. While I am not a big iron person, I will find every excuse to steam!

6. Clyde Trench from Sézane The TREND I saw in Paris in October. I have the green color and it was really the camel color that I saw the most of on Parisian women. It is supposed to fit a bit oversized.

7. Varley Half Zip Originally, this was gifted by the brand and I instantly fell in love. I wash and wear on repeat that I want to buy another color. It is so soft!

8. Montecito Sweater from Frank and Eileen I have this sweater in three colors so to say I love this is an understatement. The cream I am currently using in Florida over my shoulders and leggings for lounging. It will be perfect for the flight home as an extra layer. I ordered a small and it is roomy without being too much. You can wash and air dry this sweater to wear on repeat.

9. Tank I wear these on repeat and have purchased them from Sézane and Alex Mill. They are great for layering under jackets and sweaters.

My Favorite Things 2024

10. Lake Comfort Set comes in multiple colors. It is so comfortable. I gifted a set to my sister and she loves them too! They run true to size and I have a small and my sister has an extra small.

11. Demi Flats from Margaux These have held up for the past few years and I wear them in the spring and fall on repeat with jeans and dresses. They run true to size and I have an 8.5 I also recently just bought the demi flat and love them too! The next pair will be red.

12. Cooking in Real Life The cookbook I used the most in 2024. I gifted this to multiple friends and family.

13. Breville Coffee Maker The coffee maker that started EDP café. This was on my wish list for years and I finally ordered it at the end of 2023. When it arrived, I was overwhelmed and assumed I would never figure it out. It took a little Youtube to get the hang of it but now I offer a coffee to everyone and anyone that walks into our home. Since I bake often, I joke that I run a coffee shop from our kitchen offering lattes and fresh baked cakes, breads, and cookies.

My Favorite Things 2024

14. Glass Storage Containers I have really tried to switch over to glass for food storage as much as possible. These Rubbermaid containers were my favorite in plastic and now I have bought the glass versions. They stack really well in the cabinet and I use them in the dishwasher.

15. Vuori Joggers These are mainly for lounging. I love coming home from a trip, showering, and pulling on a pair of clean sweats and ordering delivery. These joggers are so comfortable and wash and wear well. I order the long version and I am 5’6″. The short version is too cropped on my legs.

16. Cuyana Tote Cuyana finally created a zippered version of their system tote. It has so many great pockets and compartments. I pack this for exploring Paris and can keep my camera and anything I need all with me for on the go. I have the camel color now and love it!

17. Claude Sézane Bag I have pulled out the Claude more times than I can count for date nights. It makes a great crossbody bag for Paris and can fit a good amount. This is what I use in the evenings once I put my camera away.

18. Boll and Branch Bedding A favorite from my sister too! I bought her a set last year and and continue to add to the collection with a waffle blanket and signature hemmed sheets.

19. Blondo Boots I have owned and worn my Blondo boots for years. Originally, I had them in black and added chocolate brown and a light camel to my collection and wear them often. They are waterproof suede and fold up easily for travel in my suitcase.

My Favorite Things 2024

20. Rothy Drivers The brand gifted me the shoes. I have heard good things about the brand but never owned a pair until this year. These were my shoes I threw on leaving the house the most in the fall. They are so comfortable and cute! Now I understand what all the hype is about. Currently on sale and they run tts. I have them in an 8.5.

21. Frame Jeans. I got my first pair this fall and immediately ordered a second pair in the same style. This brand is a new favorite of mine and one of my most popular items purchased by YOU as well. The sizing can vary from style to style. I can range from a 27 or 28.

Additional Items That Should Be Mentioned:

A few items that did not make the initial list should be mentioned. Starbucks cheddar and potato egg bites. My husband introduced me to these in Florida, and now I crave them. I am working on a dupe (healthier recipe) at home.

PTiox from Skinceuticals. I discovered this in Paris from a French pharmacy, and I love the instant glow a few drops give you. I have already finished a bottle and just purchased a new one.

Clarins Cyro Flash Mask: I had heard about this mask for a while now and recently purchased it after my Pilates teacher raved about it to the whole class to decrease puffiness. It gives the skin a cold sensation and is great for those early mornings or after a late night, especially after flying or before a photo shoot.

*This post includes affiliate links. I make a small commission off of items purchased from my links. Merci!

The post My Favorite Things 2024 appeared first on Everyday Parisian.

Big Book News

At the beginning of the 2008 recession, I was the first in my friend group to be laid off. I was frustrated, sad, and lost. I craved structure and came up with some ground rules while I figured out my next steps: no TV during the day, and I needed to get out of the house. There was only so much job searching I could do.

I walked daily to the Barnes and Noble and Borders bookstores near my apartment. On Sundays growing up, my dad took my sister and me to the bookshop and brunch. Bookstores were, to me, a comforting and familiar place. 

I spent hours in the bookstores reading all types of books. My goal was to find my next chapter. What would I do with my life? Would I go back to school? Should I begin a new career? I felt like the possibilities were endless, but I was stuck. 

The park across from my house was a spot I loved to visit to reflect and think. I knew I wanted to sell my travel photography, but e-commerce wasn’t a thing back in 2008. How would I do it? 

This is where I ultimately dreamt of three crazy big goals. Across from the bookstores was Papyrus, so I knew I had to get my photography sold there. Pottery Barn was a dream store, and I thought it matched my aesthetic, so I wanted to place my photography there, too. But my third and biggest goal was to find my way into every home through a coffee table book. I just didn’t have the concept yet. 

These dreams and goals have always driven me. Over the last 16 years, my photography business has experienced twists, turns, roadblocks, and speedbumps. Aside from my love of Paris, one constant has been my dream of publishing my work in a book. In 2013, I created a concept for my story that I have kept the same, and I have collected photographs for this book since.

The hardest part for me was finding a publisher and drafting an outline. Something kept me from writing down exactly what the book would look like. Before the pandemic, a friend connected me with someone to share my concept, and I dropped the ball. Maybe it wasn’t meant to be because something better was coming along.

I have been waiting for 16 years for an email from a publisher to land in my inbox. In modern times, it came in the form of an Instagram DM. I dropped my phone and jumped up and down with excitement when I saw it. “Would I ever be interested in publishing a Paris book?” My answer was an immediate YES!!!!  

After several months of emails and phone calls, I finally met my publishing “dream team” in Paris this fall. Over a glass of Chablis and a riverboat cruise down the Seine, we toasted to my next big chapter. 

The one request was to add Christmas to the book! So here I am, back in Paris, capturing the magic of the holidays. 

I can’t wait to share more details with you soon. My first book is a love letter to the city of Paris.

First things first, we need a cover! Do you have any favorites that would make a perfect cover from my collection?

For the next few weeks, it will be head down writing, dreaming, and creating! Thank you for joining me on this exciting adventure. 

The post Big Book News appeared first on Everyday Parisian.

You may know me as a Paris blogger, but my journey started with photography. This summer marks sixteen years of my photography business. A few years after college, my career path took an unexpected turn. My dream job was to be a travel photographer, but I had yet to learn how I would sell my work. After I lost my job in 2008, a friend told me about Etsy. 

I quickly launched an Etsy shop using all the photographs I had in my archives. The pictures were a mixture of my study abroad trip to Italy and travel to Paris. I also spent time photographing Chicago, which never took off as much as the travel photos. 

While getting my business off the ground, I picked up as many babysitting jobs as possible. Finding another job in 2008 was challenging, and I needed a way to pay my rent. I balanced selling my photography online, doing weekly Farmer’s Markets to sell my work in person, and babysitting. 

The family I worked for the most planned to spend spring break in Arizona. I had the crazy idea of booking a trip to Paris during this time. Since I knew that Paris was the most popular for my Etsy shop,  I took a big gamble, hoping it would pay off. 

My First Solo Trip to Paris

My first solo trip to Paris was in 2010, using airline miles from my previous job and babysitting money. It is still one of my favorite trips to date. I got lost daily. Exploring the city with my camera and whatever caught my eye was the best way to see the city. 

I listed my work on Etsy as soon as I was home, and the new work took off! One Kings Lane was new then, and I pitched them on a collaboration. They were my first big brand, and it was an excellent opportunity for exposure. 

Luck, timing, and risk all had much to do with the jumping-off point of my photography business. The families I worked for had schedule changes, and I transitioned to a full-time photographer the following year. It was the scariest time and the push I needed to leap. Again, travel came into play, and I doubled down on an even longer solo European trip to take photos. 

The Formula That Worked Best

I had a formula that worked: travel, take photos, add them to Etsy, and make enough money to do it all over again and repeat. Pottery Barn discovered my work in 2012 and is a partnership that continues today. I am grateful to Etsy for making that connection happen. 

In 2013, I decided to pack up my Chicago apartment and move to Paris for three months. I arrived not knowing anyone except one of the families I worked for in Chicago, who ironically had just moved to Paris with the same plan a few months earlier. They became my “Paris Family.” While we didn’t know each other well in Chicago, our bond grew in Paris. They are still a very important part of my life.  

Three months turned into two years of a nomadic life, moving between the US and Paris. I didn’t have a Visa and was constantly drawn back to Paris. The year I moved abroad, my sister had my niece, and I wanted to be with family and watch her grow up. 

Everyday Parisian Blog

I eventually settled back in Chicago and felt homesick for Paris. My time in Paris inspired my mindset and daily routine, and I wanted to connect with others who felt the same. 

The idea and mission of the blog was to show readers how to incorporate Paris into everyday life through recipes, style, decor, and more. My friend, Alexis, helped me brainstorm ideas for EDP, and I am so happy to have her support.

The blog launched on July 7, 2016. I liked the idea of a 7/7 birthday. It took way longer than I imagined to start the blog, and I had no idea what I was doing. My friend Rachelle helped design the blog and logo and is still part of my design team. 

After a trip to Paris, I started writing a series called The Paris Diaries, a daily diary of my time there. Readers begged for more Paris tips. Over time, I added where to stay and eat and neighborhood guides. The blog has become a mixture of French lifestyle and Paris tips. 

For many years, I felt I had no idea what I was doing as a blogger. I stayed in my lane, learning and focused on content and growth. 

It took years to figure out my niche, newsletter style and content, and what best serves my audience. Consistency is key, and I love showing up for you every week with links I love, French fashion/style/beauty content, and the new Top 5 series. 

It is hard not to let imposter syndrome set in, and I have struggled. I am incredibly proud of myself and everything I have built over the past sixteen years. Owning your own business is not easy and continues to throw me curve balls. 

Highlights of the Past Year 

Last year, I launched The Paris Guide, a PDF filled with all my tips from Paris. After additional trips to Paris, Alyssa and I relaunched The 2024 Paris Guide. The launch had unexpected tech hiccups and lessons on launching a digital product. 

We also did a paper version which will relaunch later this year.

At the end of last year, I invested in a brand refresh for the blog. After learning my audience well from in-person meet-ups, emails, and DM conversations, I wanted to improve the site. With Rachelle’s help, we updated different pages’ fonts, colors, and layouts. I am still learning all the exciting features we added to improve the blog. 

The blog continues to be a passion of mine, and I am learning and growing every day. There will continue to be hiccups, learning curves, and growing pains. Balancing The Print Shop and the blog has never been easy for me. 

SEO (search engine optimization) has been a focus over the past year, and I continue learning. This helps new people find me when they google search based on keywords and topics. I have written extensively over the eight years on the subject of Paris and am constantly improving posts to help your travel experiences.

For years now, I joked I was blogging for the Olympics. There will be many visitors headed to the City of Light this summer, and I hope I can help make their trip better through my tips.

Goals for Year Eight 

My dream of writing a book is still going strong and has been a constant since day one. I would love to have a coffee table book with my photographs of Paris. 

J.Crew was on my list of dream brands, and I would love the opportunity to work with them again. Anthropologie is also high on my list. 

Cooking and baking are hobbies that I enjoy. Next year’s book club will be a Cookbook Club, and I am so excited to be inspired by fresh ingredients and seasonal recipes. 

We have done some fun meetups in Chicago in the past. I would love to get back in the groove of these and have the opportunity to meet more readers in person. It would also be great to help spark some Francophile friendships.

Thank You to The Whole Crew

I couldn’t run The Print Shop without the help of our local UPS store (which is family-owned and operated) to get out orders and always greet Henri and me with a smile, even on the busiest days. Ray is one of Henri’s best human friends, and they look forward to their almost daily visit for a treat. 

I am incredibly proud of all the hard work and community I have built and continue to grow. Thank you to everyone who reads links I love every week, supports The Print Shop with your orders, and for spreading the word about EDP. I can’t wait to see what this next year brings. Cheers to year eight!

To my incredible support crew with The Print Shop and the blog. Alyssa Wallen, I couldn’t do without you! Katie Donnelly and Yulia Sribna are the two photographers who captured me in Paris and Chicago. I am camera shy, but these two incredible ladies make it fun and natural. Rachelle, my web designer, and Made to Thrive is my tech support. Without Made to Thrive, I would be lost. Lindsay and Sam are incredible to work with and answer all my tech questions.

My husband joins me every weekend for coffee walks with Henri. We bounce ideas off each other and brainstorm blog ideas for EDP. Thank you!

The post Eight Years of Blogging appeared first on Everyday Parisian.

Goals for 2024

When I was in Paris at the start of 2024, I took some time to write down the goals I had for the year. I firmly believe you do not have to make goals and life changes the minute the clock strikes midnight. Goal setting and making changes to your lifestyle take time.

I have kept a running paper list and a Google doc to make notes on ideas over the last month.

When I looked back at my 2023 goals, many of my goals remain the same. I even joked to my friend Katie that I wanted to keep the word “foundation” for another year. She encouraged me to choose something similar, and I decided on a “structure.”

I have been working on having a more structured day with my work schedule. There is time to work out, walk with Henri, have lunch, and focus on different aspects of my business throughout the week. It is still a work in progress and something I haven’t perfected just yet. Some days, weeks are better than others. The main goal is to be able to have time to unplug at night and on the weekends to be able to reset and reboot for the work week.

Building Community

Building the EDP community is a big goal of mine for 2024. I would love to do more in-person events not just to meet other blog readers but to help form friendships and introduce readers to other Francophiles. The book club kicked off this month, and I am excited to share the EDP Facebook Book Club Page. Here, other blog readers can comment and connect while sharing their love of books. April will have a Chicago meetup centered around a book, and I am looking for more informal ideas. Feel free to comment and share if you are interested in virtual events for book club or in-person events in Chicago.

Grow My Video Skills

Photography has been my passion and a skill I have worked on since high school. I have been photographing Paris for over 13 years, and I am still learning and growing my skills. There has been a big push for video, especially in the past couple of years. It feels like I am writing with my left hand whenever I shoot and edit a video. Shooting and editing video feels so foreign to me, and I want to grow this skill. I know it will be important for me and my business.

I love cooking and baking, and I want to incorporate this in video form as I grow both skills in 2024.

Business Goals for 2024

I feel like I am just scratching the service with SEO (search engine optimization), and I can’t wait to grow and learn more. This was a focus for 2023 and will continue to be one for 2024.

Pinterest is a platform I am looking at growing on. It has been something I have overlooked or put on the back burner for years. Pinterest is a great way to research new Paris ideas and share content from the blog to reach new blog readers. You can follow me here!

One of the BIG Goals I had for 2023 is extended to 2024. I want to continue to build my email list. Social media isn’t my favorite form of communication. I feel like building something on Instagram is the same as quicksand. There are too many glitches and algorithm changes. My newsletter is my focus, and I would like to build another 5,000 subscribers by year-end. You can always help support by signing up, and it is free!

*Right now, I am not considering adding ads to the site or switching to a paid format on Substack. I love the blog format and newsletter I currently have.

Travel More Outside of Paris

Travel outside of Paris. Day trips are a big request from blog readers, and I want to fulfill this and explore my long list. There are so many places outside of Paris in France to explore. My sister and I both would love to visit Saint-Malo. Chantilly, Provence, and the Loire Valley are also on my list.

2024 Goals for The Print Shop

The Print Shop needs a bit of a facelift and a declutter. As I have been shooting and adding prints to the shop over the years, I haven’t taken much off the site. It is time to move things around, take some pieces off the site, and highlight big prints and gallery wall ideas. This process is time-consuming and a year-long process. I have already started working on this slowly each day, devoting a little time.

The Paris Guide

This was a big project for 2023, and it was so much fun to write and share with the community. I would love to share my knowledge of Paris with more Francophiles in 2024. The Paris Guide was originally a PDF download only, and it was requested by so many of you to have it in print format. This happened at the end of 2023 and was a big project with a learning curve. Developing and selling downloadable and print products was a whole new venture.

Extended product ideas you have voted on in the reader survey include a Paris Planner (thanks, Tammy, for the push), and I want to do some Paris-themed notepads. This idea came to me early in 2024 during my stay at different hotels. There was a notepad on the bedside table, and I always carry it around with me, especially when I am out and about in Paris.

Stronger Brand Partnerships for 2024

When working with brands, I am looking for more long-term partnerships. I would love to establish a year-long relationship with brands I love and know the EDP community would enjoy, too. Being authentic is important to me, and I want to support and work with brands I use and love. There is one (maybe two) in the works I am very excited to share soon!

My dream list of partnerships hasn’t changed much from the first day I started the blog. J.Crew, Madewell, Nordstrom, Cuyana, and Merit.

If your dreams don’t scare you, they aren’t big enough

Personal Goals for 2024

Save more/spend less. We are working on a budget to save more and work towards house projects and other goals.

Be more health-focused. I would love to drop those extra 5 or 10 pounds I can’t seem to shed. My doctor recommends mixing in strength training along with my usual dance cardio. I have tried incorporating yoga and pilates into my weekly workout routine. It won’t happen overnight, but I am determined to make the change before my next checkup this summer slowly.

House Projects for 2024

We did quite a bit in 2023, so I don’t see significant changes for this year. There is a gallery wall in the works above my desk. Initially, it would be all black and white, but I am considering mixing the two. This is a great way to feature my photography at home and have a Parisian-inspired workspace. My husband and I have been debating on a piece of art for above the bed, and I would love to decide on something and print a big 60×40 to complete the room.

I do have the dream of redoing our kitchen. This involves a lot of planning and saving. Our fridge was on the fritz at the beginning of this year, and my husband and I were crossing our fingers it could hold on just a little longer.

I need to declutter my closet and my beauty cabinet. I aim not to buy more beauty products this year until I move through what I currently have at home. This would free up some space all around. My closet is busting at the seams, and it needs to be purged and items donated on a seasonal basis.

Other areas of the house need to be decluttered as well. We are having a family visit in the spring, and I would love to have parts of our home organized and cleaned. I am working on focusing on a tiny area each weekend to make the big project feel more manageable.

Stretch Goals

My husband and friend Ashley have encouraged me to work towards stretch goals. They are bigger goals than you think are possible. In 2023, I had some goals that I crushed, stretched, and crushed again. It is WILD to think how far you can go. At the end of the year, my husband took the paper goals I wrote and framed them to celebrate my wins. It’s a good reminder to keep it in my workspace.

Find an accountability buddy and tell someone your goals. Cheer each other throughout the year and support them on the ups and downs. It is never a straight line, and it is only normal to have setbacks and failures. I struggle with it, and I hope to learn to fail better.

Photos of me by Katie Donnelly, Magda for Katie Donnelly and Yulia Sribna

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5 Ways I Am Resetting for The New Year

At the beginning of last year, I had the grand idea to start a top-five series. Even I thought I was crazy as I said it out loud. Another series and a dedicated email is a lot of work. It was a success from the start and something I look forward to each Friday. I am excited to continue the series and can’t wait to see what evolves over the next year. If there are any special requests to be covered, I am open to ideas. 

To kick off the series for 2024, I am sharing five ways I am resetting for the new year. This is a topic I have thought about a lot as I ended 2023. I felt exhausted and drained and needed to reset before beginning again. 

My Word of The Year

My word of the year is “STRUCTURE.” As a creative, it is much easier to go with the flow. Some days, I feel inspired to write multiple blog posts; other days, I have trouble getting motivated. I have struggled with finding a set schedule between the blog, The Print Shop, Henri, workouts, and getting homemade dinners on the table. This year, I have a structured schedule to be more productive and devote time and energy to work and personal life. There is no guarantee that it will succeed, but I am ready to try and see how it plays out. 

5 Ways I am Resetting for The New Year

Taking it Slow

I am starting the year off slowly. Instead of rushing back into work on day one, I am starting the new year mid-month. As a solo entrepreneur, this is one of the scariest decisions. I kicked off the new year in Paris and used the time to set goals and strategize the year. During my time in Paris, I had no set agenda or meetings—just time to be inspired and soak up the city. 

New Year Reset: Structured Routine

I am creating a structured routine. The schedule has a routine for work, exercise, and time with Henri. My weekdays spilled into the weekends, and I worked seven days a week for a good part of 2023. If all goes according to plan, I should have my weekends back. This will make for healthier relationships all around. Plus, I hope to have more time to read. 

The Year of The Planner

This is the year of the planner for me. It has been a while since I used a paper planner, and I am excited to have everything organized on paper. I have ordered a few different planners that I plan to use and see what works best. 

Alyssa is also helping align the EDP calendar and plan content ahead of the game. Last year, one of my prominent callouts was always feeling behind and chasing my tail. I am excited to plan and be more organized with content and product launches throughout the year. 

The Year of The Budget

As part of the “structure” word, I am bringing this to my home life with a household budget for spending and savings. 

Vision Board for What I Want in 2024

Before my year officially begins next week, I am working on a vision board. My friend Jane suggested I try this method. It has been years since I have done anything like this. We both picked up some magazines in Paris to use as sources for words and images for our vision boards. I plan on working on this over the long weekend. 

I wrote my goals on paper while in Paris. While it is easy to set goals, you also need a strategy. It is essential to have a road map to help me achieve my goals throughout the year. I prefer writing on paper instead of typing it on a computer or phone. At the end of last year, my husband framed the goals I set for myself as a way to celebrate my achieving them. 

How are you preparing for the new year? Do you have a word you plan on using for 2024?

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My morning routine has changed a bit since having Henri and being married. I love my morning walks with Henri. It’s where I get my first thoughts of the day out on how I will tackle work and what’s on the daily agenda. I usually plan dinner in the morning, so I know if I need to grab any last-minute ingredients at the market or grocery store.

On the summer weekends, I love visiting the Farmer’s Market. We pick up fresh flowers, fruits, and vegetables for the week, including a pastry. Sunday mornings are my favorite. We go for a long coffee walk with Henri and spend time reading the newspaper and having a slower start to the day.

My Morning Routine

Wake up Morning Routine

Now that I am older, I have turned into a morning person. Before I go to bed, I set my alarm for 7 am. I don’t set an alarm on the weekends and wake up naturally. Sometimes I can fall back asleep, but I am usually awake. Having Henri has changed my mornings. Fortunately, he is a late sleeper, and I will have to wake him up in the mornings to get out of bed and walk.

I have been using and loving my Hatch alarm clock to wake up. It slowly transitions the light to wake me up, and I wake up to birds chirping. The alarm has changed how I wake up and my overall morning mood. 

In the summer months, I am much earlier, around 6 am, and use the opportunity to get work done and look for links for Sunday’s posts.

The first thing I do when I wake up is search for Henri. He used to always sleep on the floor, but he is slowly finding his way to the bed in the middle of the night. I will usually find him lying on my feet. I pull him up next to me for an extra snuggle. 

I read in bed for at least 30 minutes, mostly the news, and I search for articles for links I love.

Get Dressed

I get dressed as soon as I wake up. It helps my chances of making it to a workout class much better. Most mornings, I work out between pilates, yoga, and dance. I will wear leggings, a sports bra, a top, and a sweatshirt in the colder months. You can see more of my favorite activewear here. Henri is very patient while I get dressed because it gives him extra time in bed. Sometimes, he tells me he wants to get moving and will get out of bed and sit patiently, waiting for me to get moving.

I brush my teeth first thing. I love my Sonicare toothbrush.

My Morning Skincare Routine

I love a good skincare routine. I do a quick face wash, serum, eye cream, moisturizer, and sunscreen.

Morning Walks with Henri

This has become one of my favorite times of the day. Henri is very social and loves meeting his dog friends out on walks. He has introduced me to some great people in our neighborhood. I chat with the dog owners while he gets a good play with the dogs. Depending on the timing and the season, we go for long walks and hit a coffee shop or the park.

Morning Coffee Routine

I love my Breville coffee maker. I prep it the night before and have it automatically go off at 6:30 am. It’s so lovely to walk into the kitchen and smell freshly brewed coffee. I usually add almond or oat milk and pop it in my favorite mug.

While the coffee is brewing, I quickly do a clean sweep of the kitchen, putting away any stray dishes and emptying the dishwasher.

My Breakfast Routine

Breakfast is pretty much the same every morning. It rotates depending on the season. Right now, I am very into fresh fruit and cottage cheese. On the weekends, I love toast and eggs with hot sauce. I take my vitamins with breakfast and drink as much water as possible before starting my workday.

My Morning Work Routine

I try to jump into work early. Managing a business in the US and France means I have an inbox to tackle before France closes for the day. I try to get all emails sent off before my workout. Henri is still full of puppy energy; balancing work and being a dog mom is challenging. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Do you have a morning routine? What is one thing you have to do each morning? 

This post does include affiliate links that help contribute to my coffee and croissant research. Merci! 

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5 Ways I am Resetting for The Rest of The Year

A few years ago, I decided to start the 100-day challenge after a summer trip. This was a challenge for me to reset for the rest of the year. While in Italy, I had some time to unplug and think about the next couple of months. This year has flown by and I feel like there are a few things I want to adjust in my normal routine to improve myself and my health. 

This is a fun challenge to look at what is working in your life and what things you would like to adjust to make your health or goals better as you close out the year. I hope you will join me in challenging yourself to change your routine for the better. 

Eat Better

I have been traveling for a few weeks now and cannot wait to return to my kitchen, especially since our farmer’s market is filled with summer produce. I had some fantastic meals in Italy, and I want to recreate some of them at home. 

For most of 2023, I stopped drinking alcohol (aside from traveling in Italy and France). I track my sleep and noticed my heart rate didn’t drop as much when I had a glass of wine at dinner. Sleep is important to me, and getting good rest is high on my list for good health. This led to my decision which was an easy one to make. I did love cocktails and wine in Italy and believe everything is ok in moderation. It’s my personal decision and may not be the best for everyone. 

Move My Body

I recently started pilates through the Peloton app at home on a mat, and I have taken a few mat classes in person. The reformer is next to tackle on my list. Plus, there are some great yoga classes in my neighborhood. I have dipped my toe back into yoga recently. 

Dance is still very much a focus, and I love the cardio classes at my studio. The teachers have moved around a bit, and not every class is a slam dunk for me, which is why I am switching things up. 

I love my coffee walks with Henri on the weekends and can’t wait to continue them through the fall. 

Get Organized

My closet has always been on my big project list that needs to get tackled. I have worked on it once as I moved out sweaters for summer, but I know I will need to revisit it as I prepare for fall. There is a lot I haven’t worn or items I wear on repeat, and need to move things around to get reorganized. 

The Print Shop will have a lot of extra inventory starting in September for the Paris calendar and Italy calendar along with a lot of notecards and other fun merchandise. I really need to get this part of the house organized and ready to fill orders quickly and efficiently. 

Move The House Around (Furniture)

We ordered a good amount of furniture and household items this year. I am not the type of person that likes to finish a house and be done. There are always moving parts. We want to paint and move some furniture and areas around in the place. They are fun projects to work on a little at a time. Plus, there are some older antique pieces that I would love to find and incorporate. I would love to paint and find a coffee table for our front room. 

Read More 

My husband just ordered us both Kindles. I was hesitant about using it as I prefer a paper book, but I knew I wouldn’t be able to pack all of them for Italy. Surprisingly, we both loved them, and we read the same book in Italy, which was a lot of fun. I have a good amount of books downloaded currently, and finding the next book is always half the battle. I am currently reading “The Second Mrs. Astor” which is different from books I have read in the past. 

I hope this post inspires you to reset in your own life for the remainder of 2023.

Photos of me by Rebecca Tyler

The post 5 Ways I am Resetting for The Rest of The Year appeared first on Everyday Parisian.

It has been a while since I have done one of these posts so I wanted to introduce myself in a fun way. If you are new around here, I am Rebecca Plotnick the founder and face of Every Day Parisian. I am a full-time photographer/blogger based in Chicago and Paris. Feel free to comment below and tell me where you are following from.

25 Things You May Not Know About Me

1. My storytelling skills come from my Dad.

If you have been reading the blog for a while or you have met me in person you will know I love to tell stories that go along with the photo. What is the fun of a photo with no story? I didn’t realize it until this weekend, but my storytelling skills are from my Dad. He is the ultimate storyteller. You can hear the same story ten times, and he tells it like you are hearing it for the first time.

2. I am old school when it comes to certain things.

I still use posts its, paper journals, and a calendar. My desk is filled with post its and every time I have an idea, I write it on one. It may look odd to an outsider, but my mind is constantly thinking of new ideas, and it helps to keep them where I can see them. I always carry a notebook in my bag. I have a few empty ones just in case in the closet. Each project has its notebook. Also, I can only write in black pen (never blue).

3. Being an Aunt is the best gift my sister has ever given me.

My niece and nephew are adorable, funny, and sweet. I am so lucky to have them and have an active role in their lives.

4. I hated cooked vegetables until I was about 40

My mom always said my taste buds would change and she was right! I have recently learned to love zucchini, eggplant, and artichokes. On my 41st birthday, I enjoyed artichokes at dinner and my life was instantly changed.

5. My grandma was one of my best friends.

I miss her every day. She was my biggest cheerleader and the person I always called first to tell my good news. She continues to show up in my life in different ways now that she is gone.

6. I didn’t start drinking coffee until later in life.

Coffee is a big part of my life but that wasn’t always the case. I was slow to adapt and now I love it. I really am eying one of these Breville coffee makers I keep putting on my wish list.

7. I am typically late or right on time. The one thing I am always early for is… flights.

I am the queen of airport stress, prefer to be early for a flight, and will leave much earlier than required. This is so that I don’t have to worry about not having enough time to make my flight and get through security.

8. My parents divorced when I was in middle school.

It may surprise many people, but my parents divorced parents are together for Thanksgiving and family trips. My niece and nephew (their grandkids) are the family glue and have helped put us back together. It is really sweet to see their bond with both kids.

9. I am an early riser.

I typically wake up before my alarm goes off. And I am most productive between 7 – and 9 am. In the Summer, I am up even earlier. I love the quiet of the early morning and watching the sunrise.

10. I love analyzing my business stats.

I have a business background. And I have been looking at statistics since graduation from my old job as an assistant buyer. I look at blog, shop, and Instagram stats probably a bit too much but there is always an opportunity for growth. It fascinates me to see what is working and what isn’t.

11. I wanted a dog for the longest time but wasn’t ready for it until now.

Henri is my mini-Bernedoodle, and, we are attached. He was worth the wait in every way. Currently, he is 2 1/2 and very much in the toddler phase of puppies. It gets better and better with each day.

12. I love bookshops.

My dad used to take my sister and me to a bookshop on Sundays and, it became a tradition. I love to read, especially WWII books set in France. There are years I can’t get enough of books and other times I am slower to make it through a book. My husband recently bought me a Kindle and I am loving it.

13. I love to travel but visit the same places yearly, including Amalfi Coast and Paris.

On my short wish list are Ischia, Puglia, and Provence.

14. I suffer from migraines.

So I avoid specific triggers including red wine and anything smoked. I carry Excedrin in my bag at all times just in case I feel one coming on. It usually helps if I catch it in time. If not it is a long road to recovery.

15. I am a beauty junkie when it comes to skincare.

I am always looking to try new products and improve my skincare routine. Clean beauty is my big focus. You can see some of my favorite beauty brands here.

16. I have a dry sense of humor.

I get it from my dad and grandpa. My niece is finally catching on a bit and, I can’t wait until she gets a bit older so we can banter. Sometimes, I am the only one laughing at my jokes.

17. I am a Hoosier!

I went to college at Indiana University. Watching IU in football and basketball each season is a lot of fun.

18. My first love was Italy and not France.

I studied abroad in Siena and Florence in college and fell in love with Italy. The original plan was to find a way to move back to Italy in some way. I still miss Florence and Siena and hope I get the chance to get back with a fresh set of eyes soon.

19. I love matching pajamas.

My pajama drawer is well stocked with summer and winter pajamas. One day, I would love to design a pair of my own.

20. I fell off the bunk beds at summer camp as a kid.

I broke my collarbone and was very lucky to have that be the only injury. It was the first night of camp, and I ended up staying at sleepaway camp with a sling and refused to give up and go home.

21. I reconnected with both of my Aunts after my grandmother passed away.

They are both so different but lovely in their way. One Aunt will practice yoga with me, putting a huge smile on my face. The other Aunt is the most fantastic cook. I love spending time catching up with her in the kitchen.

22. I love to cook/bake.

The pandemic helped me learn and grow in the kitchen. I prefer to eat at home than to eat out most nights. After a fantastic experience in Italy this summer, I am ready to roll up my sleeves and work on my pasta-making skills at home.

23. I wanted to own my own hotel as a kid.

While most kids played teacher and doctor when I was younger, I dreamt of owning my own hotel. I am fortunate to have travel as a part of my life now and create content and blog about different hotels I visit. Now I know how much hard work goes into hotels. It’s best to be enjoyed on the other side.

24. I started learning photography with black and white film in high school.

When I went to college, I didn’t think photography was something I could make a career out of so I let my dream go. I was laid off in 2008 and decided to pick up a camera again and become a travel photographer.

25. You can now find my work at IKEA and Pottery Barn.

I license my work to different retailers and sell on my own website here.

This post does include affiliate links that help contribute to my coffee and croissant fund. Merci!

What on the list surprised you the most? Is there something you want to know about me that I didn’t share?

The post 25 Things You May Not Know About Me appeared first on Everyday Parisian.

At the start of each new year, I choose a word for the year. I played around with a few different ideas and the word “foundation” felt most appropriate for 2023. This word is what I will focus on in both my business and my personal life. Below are my goals for 2023 big and small.

My Goals for 2023

I am building a foundation with my first year of marriage and making the space we live in more of a home. More on that below! In my work life, I am passionate and excited to continue working on SEO (search engine optimization) that helps people find my posts via google. I have been working on this for the past six months teaching myself as I go and it really is a lot of fun. The foundation for good SEO and optimizing posts and updating links and current content is something that has to happen on a regular basis. I truly want to be a great resource for all things Paris and help you plan the best trip!

Work Goals for 2023

At the end of last year when I felt relaxed and stress-free, I started planning out 2023 and what I wanted it to look like. Planning a wedding in the fourth quarter of my business (which is always the most stressful time of the year) was a lot! I was burnt out and exhausted. On the first days of our mini-moon, I slept a lot and just needed to regroup. This made me re-evaluate how I could make my life less stressful and give it more balance.

Work from Home Schedule

One of the big things I am working on this year is my work-from-home weekly schedule. I have been working from home for over ten years wish I had it all figured out but I feel with the addition of Henri (who is two) and a growing business, it feels chaotic and completely overwhelming some days. I love structure and routine and I am working on creating and maintaining something that works for me to make me the most productive.

This means moving my schedule around to maximize Henri’s nap time so I can be productive at home. I am big on the Focus function on the Mac and iPhone. It has been one of the key features I use on a daily basis to minimize distractions while I am working and writing at the computer.

I am lucky to work with one of the most amazing and supportive teammates, Alyssa who helps me in every part of my business. One of my goals is to learn to delegate more tasks and be able to execute some bigger projects in 2023.

Goals and Intentions for 2023

Paris Top 5 Lists

The idea of the top 5 lists came at the end of 2022 and I thought I was crazy for undertaking such a big commitment and didn’t know how it would be received. We have done the Top 5 things to do in the winter and the top 5 Paris bistros. I am very grateful that it has been a hit so far with readers and I am getting suggestions for future post ideas. Having a more consistent post schedule knowing that these will be up every Friday helps me plan content. I can even batch write these for when I am traveling or have extra time in my schedule.

The Paris Guide

One of the requests I hear over and over is more help with trip planning. I am working on The Paris Guide which will be a downloadable PDF (for purchase) and will have all my recommendations in one spot. This includes my favorite restaurants, drink spots, and places to explore, shop, and stay. It is a main focus for this year as travel to Paris continues to be a hot destination and I don’t expect it to slow down. Get on the list to be the first to download The Paris Guide coming this spring.

I wish I was able to answer everyone’s individual questions through email and DMs on Instagram but I am just one person and I am managing a lot.

Brand Partnerships

I wrote a list of dream partnerships at the end of 2022 and I can’t wait to take action on making these happen. My partnerships and recommendations are something I take seriously and your trust as a reader is very important.

The Print Shop

This year marks my 13th year photographing Paris. It continues to inspire me and I am still learning each and every trip I shoot. I can’t wait to see my business grow even more in 2023. This year one of my dream retailers is happening in July and I can’t wait to see the project hit stores. I have a bottle of champagne for the occasion. (it is something I have been working towards since 2012)

The Print Shop functions mainly on Shopify which I worked with a designer and developer to update at the end of last year. I would love to learn more and build out the functions of the site making it more shopper-friendly and growing The Print Shop with more product offerings (notecards and wrapping paper) and images from upcoming travel. I am already dreaming up the 2024 Paris calendar.

Grow My Email List Goals for 2023

I have a love/hate relationship with Instagram which I feel you are hearing across the board with creators. Instagram has introduced me to some amazing friends and business contacts over the years and I am so grateful for helping the app grow my business. I also feel completely overwhelmed by DM questions these days which I struggle to answer along with emails, write posts, and be present in my personal life. It is a LOT. I am working on a plan to make this easier and more efficient for readers and me.

My number one focus this year on connecting with my audience is my email list! (sign up and help me here) I love connecting more personally sharing thoughts, images, and favorite links in my emails. While people can miss content through algorithms on social platforms, this is a much more direct way of sharing my work.

It is important to write down your goals and dreams on paper to make them a reality. I have shared this before but I truly believe in the power of manifestation. On December 31st, over dinner with my husband I wrote down BIG goals for my business. I am excited to make these a reality with hard work in 2023.

Personal Goals

Take Time Off

I will be the first to admit I am a workaholic, I lost my job in 2008 and have been hustling and working ever since to be successful. My photography business started in 2010 with my first solo trip to Paris I have been able to slowly grow it over the years with pivots and the introduction of the blog in 2016. I am a firm believer in slow and steady wins the race. The last week of 2022 was the first time I have ever completely shut down, put an out-of-office reply up, and not worked. It was amazing and felt so good to unplug and rest.

It isn’t healthy and productive to wait again until the end of 2023 to take time off, I plan on doing it more regularly. I am working on structuring my week to take time off on the weekends and plan emails and posts in advance so I can shut down and rest for the week ahead.

So far I have booked manicures, read books, taken long walks with friends, and had date nights out. It truly has been refreshing to have this balance.

Cook More

Cooking and baking were such a great escape during lockdown months. I was able to put on music, unplug, and make something delicious to enjoy at home. Since work has kicked into high gear, we have been leaning more toward ordering out than I would like. We got a pizza stone for one of our wedding presents and a pasta maker I would love to make our own pizza dough and pasta.

The last few years have been very chicken-focused in my cooking since I don’t eat much red meat. I am ready to learn and cook more fish and balance our meals more.

Decorate our Home

There is a more in-depth post on this coming up soon. My husband and I have been working on this over dinners and weekend trips to furniture stores. I moved in three years ago and I am ready to invest more in our home and make it my own. Plus, I would love to share more on the blog and have spaces to create content, especially in the kitchen. I recently ordered this piece for the kitchen which I am so excited about and wish I had ordered sooner but it didn’t click that I found the perfect spot for it until now.

I also want to change out some art of mine that is hanging and put up bigger pieces.

We are playing with the idea of switching out a room to a dining room which will require us to give up some space. I moved in during 2020 and we haven’t done much entertaining with friends or family at home and I would love to be able to have a dinner party.

Goals for 2023

That’s it for now in terms of goals. There are a lot of personal and work goals. I hope this inspires you to create goals of your own. Just a reminder that you don’t have to cross everything off your list in 2023. There is no guarantee for anything. I felt flipped upside down at the start of 2020 as a small business owner and will always feel a bit strange planning for the future. Give yourself grace and know that change and progress in the right direction are better than where you started.

*Photos of me by Katie Donnelly Photography

This post includes affiliate links. I make a small commission off of items purchased from my links at no cost to you! Merci!

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