Embrace Simplicity: Reflecting on 2024 and Setting Intentional Goals for a Homemade Life in 2025

As we continue our journey toward a simple, homemade life, it’s a valuable practice to pause, reflect on the past year, and thoughtfully plan for the future. In this post, I’m sharing an honest look at my 2024 goals – some triumphs, some learning curves – and outlining my aspirations for 2025. My hope is to inspire and encourage you to embark on your own goal-setting adventure, tailored to your unique vision of a fulfilling life.

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For fifteen years, since the second year of this blog, I have openly shared my yearly goals, intentions, and dreams with this community. It feels like a lifetime in the fast-paced world of blogging and social media, and I often joke about being a digital dinosaur! This consistent practice of public accountability has been a powerful motivator and a guiding force in my life.

Recently, I revisited some of my earliest goal lists, a nostalgic trip down memory lane. It was refreshing to rediscover the philosophy I penned in my very first goals list, a principle that still holds true for me today:

“I like to see them as fluid goals, meaning they will be something to work toward in order to feel a sense of accomplishment, but I will not be a failure if they don’t all happen (like resolutions).”

This idea of “fluid goals” is central to my approach. It acknowledges that life is dynamic and unpredictable. Setting goals is ultimately a personal endeavor, a tool for self-improvement and intentional living, not a rigid set of rules designed for self-criticism. If a goal isn’t met, it’s not a failure; it’s an opportunity for grace and redirection. We can pivot in two main ways:

1. First, consider simply moving the goal to the next year. Perhaps the timing wasn’t right, or other priorities took precedence.
2. Alternatively, reevaluate the goal entirely. Is it still something you genuinely desire? What obstacles prevented its accomplishment? Sometimes, a better, more aligned opportunity emerges, or circumstances (like time or finances) shift, making the original goal less feasible or relevant.

Life is an intricate dance of planning and spontaneity, and we can only control so much. Understanding this helps alleviate the pressure and allows for a more joyful pursuit of our aspirations. What I’ve consistently observed over the past 15 years is the undeniable power of writing things down and regularly reviewing them. This process has significantly propelled my progress in countless areas. Without those written goals serving as a gentle, persistent nudge in the back of my mind, I honestly believe I wouldn’t be where I am today, living a more intentional and fulfilling life.

The act of articulating what you want, even if it changes, plants a seed for future action. It’s an investment in your personal growth and a commitment to living a life aligned with your values. It cultivates a mindset of continuous improvement, where every year brings new insights and opportunities to refine your path toward a simple, homemade existence.

As is tradition, let’s begin with a thoughtful review of the past year. This time, I’m shaking things up a bit by highlighting not just my official goals, but also sharing a list of general strategies and experiences that proved successful in 2024, alongside a few that presented unexpected challenges. This broader perspective offers richer insights into the realities of pursuing an intentional life.

What Worked Well in 2024: Simple Joys and Productive Habits

Looking back, 2024 brought a wonderful mix of intentional practices and happy discoveries that truly enriched our homemade life:

1. Increased Use of Our Solo Stove Fire Pit. This was a delightful success! We made so many wonderful memories gathered around the fire pit, sharing good conversations and laughter with our loved ones. It really amplified our ability to connect and enjoy our outdoor space.
2. A New Schedule with Dedicated Writing Time. Working from home often presents a myriad of distractions – the kitchen, laundry, mail, all calling for attention. I used to fall into the trap of “just doing this one quick thing” before starting my core work, only to find hours, or even the whole day, slipping away. Implementing a strict routine of dedicating the first two hours of my workday (after my morning routine and breakfast) to writing in my office has been revolutionary. This focused “deep work” period has significantly boosted my productivity and ensured that essential tasks get accomplished daily.
3. Planning Monthly Trips or Outings. I initiated this practice a couple of years ago, and it continues to be one of the best habits we’ve cultivated. At the beginning of each year, I pencil in known annual events and then fill the calendar with shorter getaways – a trip to the coast, a cozy cabin stay, or simply a day hike or paddling adventure. The key is putting it on the calendar; scheduled fun actually happens! This ensures we always have something to look forward to and regularly create new memories.
4. Consistent Game Nights. Hosting bi-monthly dinner and game nights has been a cherished tradition for years, and they remain a highlight for everyone involved. These evenings are invaluable for fostering community, laughter, and lasting friendships within our home.
5. The Daily Audio Bible App. While not an official goal, I shared this app at the beginning of 2024 as my chosen method for “reading” through the Bible after two years of using paper checklists. It proved to be an excellent way to re-engage with scripture, offering fresh perspectives through auditory learning and the insightful commentary provided by the reader. It made spiritual reflection more accessible and consistent.
6. Expanded Library Access with Multnomah Library. A fantastic discovery this year was learning that our small, rural library is part of a statewide consortium. This meant I could obtain a library card for Multnomah Library in Portland, one of the largest in the state! A quick trip to a Portland branch with my local card unlocked a vast new world of books and significantly shorter waitlists for popular titles. For anyone in Oregon, this is part of the Oregon Passport Library Program – a true gem for avid readers!
7. Vital Proteins Collagen Supplementation. For years, I had taken Biosil daily, which offered some improvement to my nails. However, when I introduced powdered collagen into my tea twice a day, primarily as an additional protein source, I witnessed an even more dramatic transformation. Specifically, two of my nails had flattened significantly around age 50. While Biosil helped with splitting and growth, the collagen remarkably restored their natural curve and accelerated their growth. Despite ongoing scientific debate, my personal experience has made me a firm believer in its benefits. Regarding its contribution to daily protein intake: while not a complete protein, similar to beans and nuts, I now count it as part of my overall protein intake, ensuring I still consume a diverse range of complete proteins regularly.
8. Consistent Strength & HIIT Workouts 5 Days a Week. This year marked a significant milestone: these morning workouts truly solidified into an indispensable weekly habit. My 30-minute session has become an integral part of my morning routine, and I feel noticeably off if circumstances prevent me from doing it. I alternate between three days of progressive strength training with dumbbells and two days of high-intensity interval training (HIIT). This consistency has yielded both physical and mental benefits.
9. Progress in Eliminating More Plastic. This was a significant focus, particularly in the kitchen. While I haven’t used plastic for hot foods in years, I’m actively working towards eliminating it entirely for food storage in the fridge. My efforts also extend to minimizing plastic in appliances and rethinking how we prepare coffee and tea. It’s an ongoing journey toward a more sustainable and homemade lifestyle.
10. Organizing Physical Photos. This achievement was incredibly satisfying. Three large bins of miscellaneous photos and albums had languished for years. I finally tackled the task, discarding all duplicate prints (remember the days of automatic doubles?) and neatly organizing everything into under-bed storage bins, one for each of our children, and one for Brian and me. It’s a wonderful feeling to have these precious memories preserved and accessible.

What Didn’t Work in 2024: Learning from Challenges

Not every endeavor goes as planned, and reflecting on challenges offers equally valuable lessons for future growth. Here’s what proved more difficult in 2024:

1. YouTube Engagement. Brian and I have been active on YouTube since 2009, and for a long time, it was a source of great fun (our early videos even showcase Brian’s quirky humor!). However, in recent years, the platform has become increasingly frustrating. Despite nearly 40,000 subscribers, new videos were shown to a mere 300 viewers. We invested in courses, e-books, and sought advice from friends to boost our reach, but nothing seemed to work. Consequently, in 2024, we only uploaded one new video all year. We’re still assessing our strategy for this platform moving forward.
2. Instagram Consistency. In my mind, I envision countless stories and timeline posts to share on Instagram. Yet, in practice, I often find myself simply living life without consciously thinking about recording it. While I’m not entirely sure this is a negative thing (a laugh escapes me as I write this), it did mean I showed up significantly less on the platform this year compared to previous ones. It highlights the tension between authentic living and content creation demands.
3. Counting Macros and “Eating for Fuel”. When I initially started counting macros, I was genuinely surprised by my consistently low protein intake. This was a crucial insight, and tracking my food for a while helped me better understand my eating habits. However, it gradually morphed into an obsessive thought process. I found myself sometimes eating even when not hungry, simply to “meet my macros,” driven by the belief that strength training required constant “fuel.” After a year of eating more, I noticed no discernible difference in how my clothes fit. So, I’ve decided to return to the smaller portions, recipes, and intuitive eating strategies that have successfully supported my health for years. I’ll continue to prioritize protein, but without the compulsion to overeat.
4. Unsuccessful Fall Plantings Due to Slugs. I was particularly diligent with my fall garden planning this year. I started broccoli, kale, and cabbage in July, and Walla Walla onions in August. These, along with spinach and lettuce, were planted in September and October. The outcome, however, was devastating: slugs devoured everything. They even ate the tops of the onions, a phenomenon I’ve literally never encountered before! This was incredibly frustrating. Clearly, I overlooked proper slug control, as I hadn’t experienced significant slug damage during the summer. It seems they were merely biding their time for the prime autumn crops.
5. The Persistent Challenge of Deer Fencing. This is perhaps the most disheartening item on my “didn’t work” list. The deer in our area are incredibly voracious, consuming almost everything except lavender and the specific herbs planted in my deer-resistant garden. They disregard netting, nasty sprays (effective for only a day), and even the motion-activated sprinkler that works so well for other family members (they simply ate while being sprayed). We invested substantial funds into adding high deer fencing to our existing 4-foot wire fence around the half of our property where deer are most prevalent, and we diligently close the gate at night. Yet, they still infiltrate – either through the fencing or by circumnavigating to unfenced areas. This occurs every single day, in every season. When I say it saps the joy from gardening, I mean it. Our only remaining option is to cease planting in areas we cannot protect with robust, permanent wood-and-metal fencing, which is both expensive and time-consuming. However, if I want to cultivate more berries and ensure the survival of our fruit trees, this is the commitment we must make.

Setting Intentional Goals for 2025

Reviewing My 2024 Goals: Lessons in Flexibility and Progress

Looking at my official 2024 goals, the most striking observation is that exactly none of the three major home projects I aimed to finish were accomplished. This was a definite “boo!” moment. BUT, it’s essential to acknowledge that we did undertake a fantastic makeover of one of our outbuildings, transforming it into a charming barn – a project that wasn’t even on the list! This unexpected achievement reinforces my philosophy of fluid goals and adapting to new opportunities. Do I feel even more determined to tackle those unfinished areas this year? Absolutely! Perhaps that’s precisely the motivation I needed, ha!

Personal Goals for 2024

1. DONE – Continued my Line a Day journal with a focus on thankfulness. This simple practice truly fostered a daily sense of gratitude.
2. DONE – Maintained 5x/week strength and HIIT workouts, successfully solidifying them as a non-negotiable habit.
3. DONE (3/4 of year) – Consistently counted macros for health, aiming for more protein and better balance of fat and carbs. This provided valuable insights, even though I’ve adjusted my approach now.

Home/Financial Goals for 2024

1. NOT – Finished the upstairs landing, hallway, and stairs. This project proved more extensive than anticipated and was deferred.
2. NOT – Completed the laundry room. Similar to the stairs, other priorities and complexities pushed this back.
3. NOT – Started the kitchen covered deck. This larger project required more planning and resources than we had available.
4. DONE – Continued funding retirement accounts as able. A crucial ongoing financial priority.
5. DONE (sort of – no big trip, but that was okay) – Planned a few smaller trips and one larger trip. While the big trip didn’t materialize, we enjoyed several wonderful smaller outings, proving that flexibility is key.

Business Goals for 2024

1. DONE – Grew email list by trying different opt-in ideas. I successfully created two-week menus (one for cooler months and one for warmer weather), which helped grow my list by 3,000 subscribers. This was a significant win for audience engagement.
2. NOT – Watched and implemented a course on Shopify store improvements, including adding more products. This fell by the wayside due to other urgent business priorities.
3. HALF – Planned content quarterly (using the free calendars on clipboards on my office wall). I made progress but struggled with consistent proactive planning.
4. DONE – Completed a site redesign to improve ease of navigation and address backend issues. This was a major technical undertaking that significantly enhanced the user experience.

My Ambitious and Achievable Goals for 2025: Cultivating a More Intentional Life

While I typically aim for 3-4 goals in each area, this year I’ve set five. A few of these are maintenance goals – things I’ve successfully integrated into my routine that I simply want to continue (like morning rituals and monthly outings). Each goal meets my criterion of being “doable,” and you’ll notice that the unfinished home projects from 2024 are prominently featured here, underscoring their continued importance.

Personal Growth & Well-being Goals for 2025

1. Listen to Biblical Books in the Mornings: I plan to begin with the Apocrypha, which I’ve never read before, expanding my spiritual understanding and providing a peaceful start to my day.
2. Daily Morning and Evening Prayer from Book of Common Prayer: Inspired by “Prayer in The Night” on my best books list, this goal aims to deepen my spiritual practice and find grounding through established liturgy.
3. Incorporate 5,000-10,000 Steps Daily: Adding this to my existing strength and HIIT workouts will further boost my physical activity, promoting overall health and energy for my homemade life.
4. Schedule Regular Monthly Gatherings with Friends and Family: Fostering meaningful relationships is vital. This goal ensures dedicated time for connection and community, rather than leaving it to chance.
5. Achieve Better Work/Life Balance: Work Only 3 Days a Week: My aim is to use one full day off each week specifically for creative pursuits – sewing, decorating, or engaging in other fun, hands-on projects. I’ve deeply missed this outlet in recent years and believe it’s essential for my overall well-being and a truly homemade spirit.

Home & Financial Fortitude Goals for 2025

1. Complete the Stairs and Landing Renovation: This involves finishing the caulking, painting, and addressing some stair rail fixes. It’s time to bring this long-pending project to a polished conclusion, enhancing our home’s interior.
2. Finish the Laundry Room: This room is tantalizingly close to completion, requiring only the counter and sink installation, final caulking, and touch-up painting. A functional and beautiful laundry room will significantly streamline household chores.
3. Start and Complete the Kitchen Covered Deck: This outdoor living space will undoubtedly become a highly utilized area for relaxation, dining, and entertaining. Its completion will greatly expand our home’s usability and enjoyment.
4. Plan Monthly Travel and Perhaps One Big Trip: Continuing the successful habit of monthly excursions, I also hope to plan one larger, more adventurous trip to create lasting memories and explore new places.
5. Financial Planning and New Will: Updating our will has been on our to-do list for years. By intentionally placing it on this year’s goals list, I’m confident we’ll finally tackle this crucial aspect of our financial security and legacy planning.

Business Growth & Impact Goals for 2025

1. Revamp and Enhance Shopify Store: This includes watching and thoroughly implementing improvements from a dedicated Shopify store course, optimizing our online presence and product offerings.
2. Physical Books Trial: This exciting venture has been on our radar for a while. We hope to explore the possibility of offering physical books, and you’ll likely see more updates on this in 2025!
3. Proactive Quarterly Content Planning: My aim is to become more strategic and proactive in planning content, ensuring a steady stream of valuable information and inspiration for you, rather than last-minute rushes.
4. Launch a Monday Email Series: I’m eager to send another useful email to my subscriber list. I’m developing a “cooking club” idea or similar concept to provide consistent value and engagement. Stay tuned for details!
5. Refined Work Schedule: To support my work/life balance goal, I will structure my business work to Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, with the first two hours of each day strictly dedicated to writing, free from distractions. This focused approach will maximize efficiency and creativity.

Curious about my journey with past goals and reflections? You can explore all my previous goal-setting posts here.

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