I think the first update post of the new year is always the most difficult for me to write because the socially acceptable thing to do is to say, “Happy New Year!” and be excited about a new beginning. But, even though that would be easy enough to do, it would feel disingenuous. I have health problems that are getting more imminent and, to summarize it very succinctly, my whole situation is bad. So this could be my worst year yet. It doesn’t feel like a new beginning for me. But as I always say, I’m still chugging along for now. And if the new year gives you hope or inspires you to make changes or achieve new goals, then that’s a great thing 🙂

As for December, I managed to get all my end of the year posts done in time! That’s something. I’ve also still been playing Palia. It completely sucked me in. Wasn’t expecting that when I started playing a month or two ago. I’ve finished all the main quests for now (the game is still getting updates) and am romancing two characters (Jel and Reth) and am working on maxxing all the friendships and getting gold (so I can decorate my house more) and achievements. If anyone wants to try it, here’s my referral link again! I’ll review it eventually. (Maybe I’ll even review BG3 this year lol.)

Blog/Bookish Updates:

I think I’m gonna have to admit defeat on replying to some old comments. I’ve always tried to respond to them all, but I have some from like a year ago, and those of you who left those probably don’t even remember, and responding to them doesn’t feel like a good use of my energy. Rest assured that I have read and appreciated them all though!

Also, I’m pretty sure I failed at the Discussion Challenge last year, but I’m trying again! I’m being realistic though and going for “Discussion Dabbler,” which is 1-10 posts. It’s been a while, but I’d like to do at least a few discussion posts this year. And yes, I’m putting my sign up in my December post since it’s already almost mid-January. This whole post is just revealing what a mess I am, isn’t it? Anyway, the challenge is hosted by Shannon @ It Starts at Midnight!

Books I Received for Review:

I got George Falls Through Time by Ryan Collett (audiobook) from the Libro.fm ALC program! This one has been on my radar for a while, so I’m excited for it. It’s about a man who stress spirals so hard he time travels into 1300.

I also got Beth is Dead by Katie Bernet, from Simon & Schuster. What a pretty book! The hardcover has some texture even. The story is a thriller / contemporary (not SFF) reimagining of Little Woman.

Books I Finished:

So… I didn’t read anything in December 😅 It was a stressful month, don’t judge me. Actually, I did start rereading a series, but I’ll just put all those together in the next update post.