snapshot 12.29

I was trying to get more done before the year ended, but then there was lots of work stress. And some holiday stress. But it was mostly work stress that threw me off. But I have one more week to get some things cleaned up before the big January books start up.

I will say that I set myself a reading goal for the year of 175, and according to Goodreads, I made it to 195. That feels good. I read so many good books this year. I leaned more into audio books, and I will keep doing that more this year. It means I can do other things with my hands, which is good for my mental health. And my long mental list of chores. And I recently bought myself a headband that will hold my hair back while I listen to things, and keep from worrying about dropping an earbud into the dishwater, so I am ready to listen to all the books.

I’m also excited about 2025, because some of my favorite authors are bringing out new books. Anthony Horowitz has announced a third installment of his Susan Ryeland series, and I am hoping that means a third season of the amazing show on PBS as well. Louise Penny, after making us wait 2 years for her latest Gamache novel, has announced that her next one will be out next year. Alexander McCall Smith is bringing out a new book about my favorite of his characters, Professor Dr. Von Igelfeld. And I’m not sure it will make it to store shelves in 2025, but rumors are out that Jan Karon is working on a new novel about her beloved Mitford citizens. And along the way will be hundreds of new books from favorite authors and new authors and everyone else. Reading lowers stress, you know, so let’s make 2025 the year of the Book!

Thanks for reading along!