I set goals every year, and I’m normally too shy to share them. But I’ve seen lots of posts over the last few days about goals and hopes for the new year, and I’ve found them all so encouraging. For what they’re worth, here are the goals I’ve set for 2021. I’m nervous to put them out there, but you all have made me feel brave and inspired. So, here goes!
**********
Go hiking and get outside more often
Whenever my husband and I travel, we hike. We’ve done big hikes and small hikes, and I’ve loved them all. I’m not the fittest person out there, but I’m pretty capable.

I don’t do a lot of hiking in my everyday life, though, and truthfully, I spend a lot of time inside. In my pajamas. I’d like to change that this year, and plan a good hike at least once per month. And, you know, just be outside more. There’s a lovely patio out back, after all, and I’m sure it would be nice to do some writing in the sunshine every now and again.
Make some improvements to the house
I love my house. I know I talk about it a lot. But I really, really love it. It’s the first place I’ve lived in my adult life that really feels like home.

In 2021, I’d like to spend some time painting, decorating, cleaning up and refreshing, and maybe even renovating (lightly…and inexpensively). I’ve not made a complete list of what I want to do, but I would like to make my home a priority in the coming months.
Continue to work on and grow this blog
And to engage with my wonderful followers. I’ve gained over 100 this year, and you all are amazing. Thank you for reading! And for writing and sharing your own thoughts and stories. 😊 In the new year, I’d like to gain 100 more followers, and to put out good, interesting, creative content that resonates and gets people thinking.
Start a YouTube channel
This is something I actually wanted to do in 2020, and I just chickened out on it. It’s kind of intimidating to think about being on camera. But I would love to take you all along on some of my adventures, especially in the beautiful Virginia countryside.

And to show you what it’s like to live in a very old house, and to just share some of my day-to-day life with you. What else would you like to see? Let me know. Maybe it will help me be brave enough to actually get something up and running!
Finish a novel
Oh yes, the big one. The main goal. The dream. I’ve been in some phase of working on a novel since 2016 when I started this blog. I’ve got several in various states of doneness. This year, I’d like to actually finish one. And then, if I can work up my courage, start the hard work on trying to get it published. Maybe to hold myself accountable I’ll do a weekly or monthly feature here. Is that something you all would like to read? I think it would help me to share the journey with you.
***********
And there they are, out there for everyone to see. I feel like by posting them here, perhaps I’ve spoken them into being. 2020 hasn’t been the year I thought it would be, but I’ve worked hard and accomplished a lot.
2021 will be better, I hope. I certainly plan to do everything I can to make it as good and as happy as it can be.
Oh, and one more thing!
I actually have a super exciting project to announce. It’s been a labor of love for the last several months, and I’m so excited to share it with you guys at the beginning of January. So stay tuned!
And on my December short story…
It’s almost done. It’ll be up on Wednesday. I swear.
Your house looks gorgeous!! Would love to see more of it.
Everytime I watch vlogs on YouTube – I wonder how people are confident enough to put themselves out there like that. I’m sure you get used to it with time. Will definitely join you on your YouTube journey too.
Oooh. Secret project.. sounds interesting!
Good luck with your goals! Hope you’re able to achieve them and more. ❤️ Happy 2021!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you! Your comment’s given me a little boost of confidence. 🙂 Good luck with your blog goals! I saw your post earlier and haven’t had a chance to comment yet. Happy 2021 to you, as well! May it be a better, brighter year for all of us.
LikeLiked by 1 person
All the very best in meeting your goals.
The hiking is the one I would recommend the most as it will energise you to do the rest!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you! I’m really looking forward to that one. There are lots of good places to go walking or hiking around here. Hopefully I’ll get some good pictures and create some good memories to post about. 🙂
LikeLike
I’ll be watching out for them. VA is close to my heart.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You know we’ll help with the hiking part 🙂 Looking forward to spending 2021 with great friends like you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I figured you might be willing to hold me accountable on that one. 🙂 Looking forward to outdoor adventures with you and Liz!
LikeLike
Loved the image of Virginia. It reminds me of the hills of Hobbiton in The Hobbit. I have recently gotten back on my channel and begun the work required to turn it into something. Def a 2021 goal. I am glad I stumbled on your site.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m glad you commented, because it led me to your site. 🙂 Good luck in 2021!
LikeLike
I do have so many dreams to complete in 2021. And most importantly I want to do EBC Trek 🏔️🌴
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh my gosh, that would be incredible! I am definitely not that skilled, but I’ve seen videos and pictures from people who hike to Everest Base Camp, and it looks like such an amazing experience. I hope you get to do it!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks 😊 I will definitely one day ! That’s what life is all about.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Happy 2021
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you very much! Same to you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks alot and you’re always welcome🙏🏻
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sounds like you are on your way.. great tips and a great start! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you! I hope you’ve had a great start to the new year, as well. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Good luck with your goals! I really feel that focusing on what we can improve on ourselves, no matter how small, will keep us grounded.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you! And I totally agree. Having something to work towards always helps me feel like I’m on solid ground and moving forward.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Pingback: Q&A! What do you want to know? | A Virginia Writer's Diary
Pingback: An Icy Battlefield Hike | A Virginia Writer's Diary
Pingback: A Foggy Morning Hike Through a Hidden Gem | A Virginia Writer's Diary