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the numbers I didn’t hit (yet)

what I'm still focusing on, and what I'm letting go

Dec 28

READ IN APP

before we jump into today’s post, here’s what you might have missed on Hyphenated by Hitha:

an overdue update on my GLP-1 journey (and my overall health)
NGL, a Hallmark job looks appealing (I loved this one, Hannah Orenstein!)
some of my favorite things this year
this month’s ‘take care of yourself’ plan

150 (books read)

If you count the books I read to Rhaki (he loved Owl Diaries, Grumpy Monkey, and this illustrated version of the Ramayana), I definitely hit this goal.

If it’s just me (not counting the number of times I re-read Innkeeper Chronices), I’ll end my year at 132 books read. And I’m good with that.

This was the year I started using the library a lot more (specifically, LIbby), logged my books in Storygraph, and set a reading goal. I plan to keep doing the first two. I love having a central TBR list (instead of screenshots and multiple notes in my Notes app), and want to add a regular library date for our family.

1000 (paid subscribers)

I hope to hit this goal in 2026 (and hope to earn your paid support, if you haven’t upgraded your subscription yet). I’m currently at 672 paid subscribers, and I’m honored that so many of you support my work—it means the world.

#5SmartReads and my GLP-1 updates were the main draw for paid subscriptions, but I’ve been adding on more exclusive posts (swipe files, more 5SR issues a week). I rebranded this Substack on a whim, but I’ve been thinking about this rebrand and platform for a long time. I’m excited to share how I’m pivoting and building Hyphenated, and test out other features and offers for this tier.

8 (minute mile) / 5(K)

I forgot that I set a goal to run more this year. While I didn’t hit either of these goals, I really like my weekly mile runs after a workout. My fastest pace was a 9 minute mile, so I don’t think this goal is out of reach.

I also need to just sign up for one of the 5Ks that seem to always be happening in Central Park (one with a medal—I’m a sucker for something shiny).

4 (dinner parties)

I also forgot that I aspired to host more, specifically more dinner parties. The one party I went all out for was our Super Bowl party, and I really enjoyed an impromptu potluck with one of our close school friends. I’m inspired by Amanda Litman’s year of dinners, and am going to dip my toe in with a Saturday dinner over the long weekend. I’m thinking a giant pot of chili, setting up the hot dog toaster, and seltzers and Aplos on hand.

I’m in no hurry to set any new resolutions or goals for the new year, but I am looking forward to wintering with intention again, making casual hosting plans, and running a little bit faster every time I lace my sneakers.

Rather than being intimidated by ambitious goals, I’m really looking forward to these they’ll-happen-in-due-time ones.

things I’m loving right now:

I wanted a two tone necklace (to match these earrings) and an evil eye one (to ward away the bad juju). My husband knocked it out of the park with this one.
If you’re looking for something to replace your scrolling with, might I suggest a cozy game? I’m currently playing Starbrew Café and it’s delightful.
My reading list for the holiday break: AI for ADHD by my friend Lindsay, Empire of AI (to help moderate my AI usage), and Nisha J. Tuli’s Nightfire Quartet (I read her Artefacts of Ouroboros last year, and LOVED the first two books).
This is the time of year that I refresh my undergarments & t-shirts. I bought a few of these bras (Sunkissed is a solid shade match for me), some of these bralettes (I love the patterned ones), and some fresh white tees.
It’s also the time of year to refresh my wardrobe with a new Armoire case. My new case contains this dress, this sweater, this button-down, this winter coat, and these trousers. You can get 50% off your first month + 2 bonus items when you sign up with my link!
This is my kind of ‘start the new year’ vibe.