The time has come to speak of many things… or something like that. I usually do a recap post in December, so it seems about right to start looking back on 2015 as the holidays approach. It’s been a strange year, productive in some ways, terribly slow in others.
I published several academic pieces: one book, a journal article (with another accepted for publication), and a dozen or so book reviews. I attended three professional conferences and spoke at one; gave a book talk and a lecture on writing, accepted a supervisory position (with all the duties that entails), and finally convinced the library administration to let me purchase bean bags for student use (they’ve been a hit). I read over 50 books (surpassing my original goal of 30) in several genres, including non-fiction and self-improvement.
I KonMari’d my home (still in progress and still as effective) and bought a couch (much to my family’s delight, visitors can now actually sit beside each other). I tried and failed to create a capsule wardrobe, realizing that I already have a strong sense of what I like to wear, so why try to limit my options; and weeded my TBR pile to a sustainable little collection of books that I actually intend to read.
I completed the third draft of my primary work in progress, the as-yet-untitled Anúna (maybe soon to be titled?), and have a nearly finished draft of this year’s NaNo novel, along with a working plan for Cassiel draft three and Anúna draft four. There have been a lot of words in my life this year and many more to come.
I lost my cat of 14 years, a loss that still resonates, and gained a new little friend who requires more attention than I anticipated, but makes me smile with his silly antics and sweet meeps.
Midway through the year, I found myself turning more and more to yoga as a way to relieve stress, pain, and just find peace. It’s become a regular part of my week, and I hope to continue to grow my practice as I gain strength and flexibility. I haven’t been as disciplined about my diet or my savings, but I look forward to a fresh start after taking some time for myself.
Here’s looking to a restful holiday season and bright new year.
marginalia and such 
Congrats on such a filled year, and well done for gaining a new friend to be cared for. One of my goals for this year is to at least meditate weekly and think more about my well-being. Good luck with your goals for 2016!