Gifts and New Year Visions
The arrival of a new year often prompts us to reflect on the warmth of past moments while dreaming about the possibilities of the future. This year, for me, gifts and visions have intertwined in some truly special ways, painting a picture of hope and love.
Take, for instance, that Writer’s Year calendar. The bold words on the cover, “Write your book in 2025!” made me laugh when I first saw them. It wasn’t just a gift—it was a command. Each page reveals not just the date but also a writing prompt, a spark of inspiration, or a motivating quote. It feels like the beginning of a journey, nudging me to take my dream seriously.
And then there’s the Hot Air Balloon ticket, a gift from my husband’s nieces. When they forwarded it to us this Christmas, I was momentarily stunned. Imagine floating over Milan and Tuscany, sipping Prosecco while the European summer unfolds below. The mere thought of it feels surreal, like a scene from a dream, yet it’s a dream that will soon come true.
Then, there’s the beach café in Sri Lanka—a project my husband built for us. It’s nestled on the southern coast, facing the Indian Ocean. He envisions us sharing chilled wine and exquisite dishes with guests while watching the sunset paint the horizon. For me, cafés have always been more than places to sip coffee. They’re like homes, art galleries, libraries, and kitchens rolled into one. Years ago, when I ran two cafés in China, they became sanctuaries for people to relax, recharge, and connect. This new café excites me in ways that feel both nostalgic and entirely new.
Gifts often carry meanings far beyond their material presence. This year, each gift seems to have whispered a silent promise about 2025, weaving themselves into the fabric of my hopes and dreams.
A New Year’s Rhythm
Speaking of dreams, I must admit that the rhythm I’ve cultivated over the past few months has brought me unparalleled satisfaction.
Each morning, I let music ease me into the day. Soft melodies flow through the room, setting the tone for what’s to come. After drinking a glass of warm water and brewing a cup of coffee, I sit at my desk, open the calendar, and begin my “1,000 words a day” routine. These moments belong solely to me and my thoughts, no distractions, no judgments. What matters most is letting the words flow.
Once my writing is done, I enjoy a walk by the river or the ocean. The sound of water, the shimmer of sunlight on its surface clears my mind and opens the door to inspiration. Often, the best ideas come to me in these quiet moments, where nature seems to whisper its secrets.
This practice reminds me of a book I read in 2021, The Complete Artist’s Way. Back then, I started a “morning pages” habit, writing by hand every morning. Although I stopped during a long trip, its impact stayed with me. Writing is no longer just a goal or a means of recording, it’s a way of life, a channel for emotion and creativity.
Unforgettable Moments
Travel has always been a significant part of my life, and one journey stands out—the unexpected extension of a European trip that has become etched in my memory.
It was Christmas in 2021, during the height of the pandemic. So, we pretty much had Europe all to ourselves. No other tourists were crazy enough to disregard the warnings with as much abandon. Our trip was meant to be just 6 weeks, but because of COVID lockdowns we couldn't get back into New Zealand and were away for 3 months. While the disruption upended our plans, it also delivered surprises. In the northern Italian town of Bobbio, my husband purchased a countryside retreat—a four-story house built in 1888, surrounded by lush green valleys and overlooking the Trebbia River, which Hemingway once described as “the most beautiful valley in the world.” There, life felt like a dream: watching sunsets, listening to streams, encountering deer darting through the woods. At night, under a starry sky, the distant lights of neighbors’ homes dotted the valley, creating a sense of serenity that I’ll never forget.
Staying True to Writing
I had a slight hiccup yesterday, when I thought there was now an easier way to get my thoughts on paper by using an AI tool to help me co-write this blog post in English. I was pretty excited to share it, but my son made a comment that “It’s too obviously AI written.” That was a bit of a blow, especially when my husband joined him and agreed.
It made me realize that writing isn’t something you can hand off to someone—or something—else. Writing is personal. It’s about being honest with yourself and sharing a piece of who you are. I often remind myself: “Be True, Be You.” I’ve always believed in staying true to yourself, whether it’s in writing or life. No shortcuts, no compromises, AI may be a tool, but emotions and originality are irreplaceable.
That said, I haven’t entirely abandoned AI. Like computers and digital cameras, it has its value. As long as I remain in control and use it as a tool rather than a crutch, it can serve as an assistant without compromising my voice.
The Intersection of Gifts and Visions
As we step into the new year, have you received a gift that left a lasting impression? Or do you have an exciting vision for the future? For me, gifts are more than just objects, they symbolize love, hope, and possibilities. They tell stories that make life richer and more enjoyable.
I’d love to hear your stories. What are the gifts or visions guiding you into 2025? Share them with me, and may your year be filled with delightful surprises.
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