Goals for 2014

It's the last day of the year!! Which means: time for new year's resolutions.

They have been floating around everywhere in the last few days, and I gotta say: I love it.  

For years I only had vague plans for the new year: the old "get fit/skinny/a workout-machine"-resolution of course; and then, in the last couple of years, I wanted to experience new adventures. Which is something I still try to remember whenever the call of the couch gets too strong - that couch is damn persuasive you guys!

But a lot of people are way more creative and ambitious then I am. I've read some amazing goals from fellow bloggers: try something new every week; cook every recipe in a cook book (so Julie and Julia!); focus on home decor; learn a new instrument; get better at what you do.

All these really resonated with me.

For years I didn't really have a hobby, apart from reading (half-heartedly) and being a crazy dog lover (is that a hobby?). 

But 2013 has presented me with a precious gift: a passion for photography and writing = blogging. 

Which leads me to my goals for 2014:

1. Become a decent photographer.

In 2013, I found out that I love photography. In 2014, I want to learn how to get better at it. 

To help with that I bought my first big-girl camera yesterday: My first DSLR camera! It's the cute little Canon EOS Rebel SL1 with a 18-55mm lens. It was important to me that the camera is lightweight and small - I know myself enough to acknowledge that I wouldn't bring a big heavy one along very often. 

So far I have just taken a few random shots inside the house of puppy and some furniture - and I'm taken aback at how huge the difference is to my old camera. The images are sharp! Not grainy at all! Vivid colours, very high quality - omg, I cannot wait to figure out how to work that baby properly. I'm frickin excited!

Also, in the next few days I will order a new cellphone (had my trusty Samsung Nexus for over 3 years), and I have decided to get the HTC One. It is supposedly one of the best camera phones out there, and I have a soft spot for cellphone photography. After all, without my phone I would have never developed a passion for photography!

2. Become a better writer. 

Writing has been such an unexpected joy and blessing in 2013. And with writing I mean blogging. It is therapy, hobby, relaxation, and bravery all rolled into one. Yes, bravery: some posts are scary. 

It is not easy to admit to one's faults: insecurity, petty thoughts, weaknesses. 

But you know what? It is so absolutely thrilling to do it! You feel liberated, free, and so much stronger! What a precious gift.

I want to continue doing it, hopefully branching out, evolving, and to keep getting better at it. 

3. Become a confident rider. 

Oh yes, me and my old companion fear. Fear is always around as soon as I climb on a horse. 

But my boy Nick is my buddy: I love him. I trust him. He would never run away on me (my biggest fear), he's way too lazy! For the new year I hope I can ignore that insistent devil on my shoulder, whispering into my ear all the terrible things that could happen. Instead, I will try to nurture the little angel that knows how much I enjoy spending time with Rich and our horses. And how exhilarating it can be to throw caution to the wind and just let go. 

2014, let's do this! This year will be about becoming. 

What is your new year's resolution?

Stay safe and happy celebrating, 

Miriam