Dear January: A Letter to New Beginnings

Geri Deane
Jan 8
2 min read

Dear January,

You’re back again — all full of potential and Pinterest boards. I see you with your crisp mornings, cleared-out calendars, and high hopes. You always arrive with a suitcase full of possibilities and whisper, “This year, let’s make it count.” And honestly? I’m listening.

Fun Fact: Virginia is one of 7 states that have chosen the Northern Cardinal as their state bird, including Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, North Caroline, Ohio and West Virginia.

You bring the itch to do things differently. The curiosity to explore, to reimagine, to stretch a little. To learn something new (salsa dancing, anyone?), to finally pick up that dusty guitar, to sign up for the cooking class we keep scrolling past. Maybe even to call the friend we haven’t talked to since pre-2020. Or take that trip that’s been sitting on the vision board so long it’s faded around the edges.

You’re the permission slip we didn’t know we needed.

Maybe this is the year we give more. Pay it forward without expecting anything back. Send the thank-you card, shovel a neighbor’s driveway, or donate just because. Maybe this is the year we move — not just physically, but emotionally, professionally, personally. Maybe we embrace the idea that home isn’t just where we live, but how we live.

So here’s to you, January. For showing up with your clean slate, your fresh air, and your gently whispered reminder: "Start where you are. Just start."

And if that bold next step happens to involve a new address, a change of scenery, or finding a place that fits this new version of you? You know where to find me.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=enWVrT2HaBQ

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Let’s make 2026 count.

Love,