2024: A Comprehensive Review

Looking back at 2024

Looking back at 2024, a lot has happened. I've had spent this year being a mom for the first time, enduring all the bits that other moms warn you about - 'it's tough now, but it gets better' or 'just wait, it gets worse.' It's quite scary how contradictive parenthood can be. I digress.

I don't keep up with the news nearly enough because you end up complaining the whole day (that might just be me). Although, it's not always doom and gloom. There's been an influx of new Netflix shows, classic 2000s movies making a comeback, and loadshedding had been put on hold for a few months, or at least since the elections. We're also starting to get more rain, which we needed desperately.

I also learnt a lot from being a freelance writer. I've had the 'no pleasure' of being in contact with a number of people that I wouldn't want to work with. Effort means nothing anymore, especially when it's coming from a place that you'd think takes matters seriously. It's a pity.

I almost forgot that Trump became the president of the USA once again, even after much controversial.

1. The First Year of Parenting

My son was born in November 2023, which sounds quite weird. You think back to 32 years ago, 1992, and it doesn't feel that long ago. Anyways, my hubby and I have had quite the year. We've learn a lot about one another and ourselves, as cliché as it sounds. It's definitely a level of teamwork I wouldn't have imagined until we had our son. It also became clear when we had to attend two weddings in December 2023 - he was three weeks old! We somehow managed.

We never sent our son to school or creche in his first year. It was a bad idea. Balancing work and parenting was a very unique situation, but also a frustrating one. From buying books to reaching out to specialists, I take my hat off to our parents generation. None of this seemed to be a problem, or at the very least, they kept their frustrations to themselves and carried on. We're now in the era where we source inspiration and advice on social media, specifically Instagram and YouTube. I have found it pretty useful. Although, I do wish I had more time for books, I enjoy James Patterson and Ian Rankin.

By the time 8:30pm hits, I'm in bed with a true crime documentary and lights are out already -- an understatement of the year.

While watching little one, what really blew my mind is how little humans need a routine. It really is as simple as that. With all the advice moms throw around to one another, I could never reach out because I felt that I wasn't a good mother if I needed help. It's very much like working with others in the office. Imposter Syndrome hits home.

It's been a fun year though. I cannot thank my husband enough for powering through when times got tough. My son is a character and we've got so much to be grateful for.

2. The Life of a Work-From-Home Freelance Copywriter

Bring on the articles, social media, and newsletters. I've had a pretty good year with creating content. I realised that working from home became an important part of my growth, as I was (and still am) responsible for my daily tasks, time management (not when my child is around), lunch, etc. I'm quite happy. I get to write about interesting things and learn along the way.

Do I miss the office? Of course. It was an environment that really challenged me and my mental health, yet it clearly wasn't for me at the time. Nonetheless, I loved the energy it brought at the end of the day. I was always organised with my notebooks, new stationery, and a very noticeable bravado It became clear that second chances are not a given, even if you couldn't make sense of what happened to get to that point. It's not easy to get through the challenges alone.

I still don't have an office. However, I have every intention on working in an environment that's conducive to writing. The only downside is you can't really dress up anymore because it's just you, and there's only so many times you can work at your dining room table. However, I am much closer to the kitchen and that part of the house will always be my vice, even when I worked in an office. It's so convenient, even when you need a third cup of tea.

3. A Very 'Sad' Social Life

A lot of people can relate. It wasn't because we became parents, people have managed to balance both social and parenting. Although, it doesn't apply to everyone.

The worst part about social media is that you think you see people having a good time (which they probably are), but it's one of those where you feel like you're better off at home. What has happened? Why are millenials so tired? We were the last generation to have nightclubs and numerous hotspots for getting beer while dancing to the bar (no phones in hand). There are a few festivals for those who like a good dance or two. They're a lot more tolerable compared to the sticky and sweaty, smoke-filled club that felt like a Covid-19 advert. But, I guess if you're not searching for these events, you'll never know what people are up to until they post about it later. Additionally, a lot of people my age are travelling or adjusting to parent life. You don't have to be social to be busy. Even organising a lunch or dinner with a friend feels like you're waiting for the next doctor's appointment.

That's why at the moment, true crime and murder documentaries seem to be a hit. It's somewhat calming and intriguing. As far as socialising goes, it maybe happens once or twice a year. Our thirties look to be eventful.

Overview

I am super grateful what this year brought. It's one of the few years that I can finish with a smile on my face.

From travelling to Cape Town and visiting the rentals to planning a new trip to Australia. Our son's first international trip. It's quite scary to think about, but we'll manage like we always do.

We've also managed to put our Christmas tree up, despite us not being here for Christmas. If I wasn't so traditional, it would have been an afterthought. On top of the decorations, my son likes to do his own decorating by taking mine from the tree. Yet, I was warned.

No matter.

Whether you're travelling or adjusting to parent life, it feels like there's so much to do in so little time, but after a four year global pandemic, I feel that we can make it work somehow.

I just don't know where the year has gone. It has flown by.