Happy 2025: Embracing a Slower, Realer Way of Living

Better late than never, right?

So much has already happened this year. Between shifts in social media and the recent five-hour TikTok ban, I’ve been left questioning: What’s the point of it all?

Don’t get me wrong—I want to stay connected with people. For some reason, my brain keeps telling me that social media is the only way to do that. But deep down, I know better.

As a Gen Xer, I remember life before the internet. Back then, we stayed in touch through phone calls, handwritten letters, and actual face-to-face community. And guess what? It worked.

I’m not saying social media is bad—there’s a lot of good in it. But right now, for me, it feels like too much. It’s too fast, too fleeting. I crave slow. I crave real human connection. You know what I mean?

And with the rise of AI, that craving is only growing stronger. I want to hold onto what’s real, and that means turning to a slower way of life.

So, I’m going back to my roots: art, phone calls, snail mail, community, and blog posts. And I’ll be connecting with you in those ways, too.

Some might say stepping away from social media is like killing my business. But let’s be real: with the algorithms running the show, are you even finding me there anyway? Honestly, I’m tired of letting algorithms control me. It’s soul-killing.

So here’s the deal:

You’ll find me here on this blog, on my Substack newsletter (Ink and Treasure), on YouTube for tutorials, and maybe on BlueSky.

As for Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok? I don’t know yet. For now, I’m focusing on spaces that feel authentic and aligned.

My Intentions for This Blog

Since we’re here, let me officially share my plans for this space:

• Blogging Frequency: I aim to post 2–3 times a week.

• Topics You’ll Find Here:

• Journaling and tutorials

• Creative musings

• The history of vintage and unwanted treasures

• Sustainability through reusing, repurposing, and thrifting (a personal favorite!)

That’s it for today. I’m so glad you’re here. Let’s make 2025 a year of connection, creativity, and authenticity.