Happy New Year! As we step into 2025, I’m reflecting on traditions, gratitude, and the excitement of new beginnings.
Celebrating Haitian Independence Day
In our household, the new year is always special because it coincides with Haitian Independence Day on January 1st. My husband, who is Haitian, introduced me to this beautiful tradition of eating soup joumou to honor Haiti’s independence.
Soup joumou is a hearty and flavorful pumpkin soup made with squash, beef, pasta, and an array of vegetables and spices. I look forward to it every year. Historically, this dish was forbidden for enslaved Haitians but reserved for their oppressors. On January 1, 1804, when Haiti declared independence, soup joumou became a symbol of freedom and resilience. Eating it each year is a celebration of strength, culture, and history, and I love sharing this tradition with our growing family.
Another beautiful part of Haitian Independence Day is the tradition of wearing yellow. The color symbolizes the warmth, optimism, and resilience of the Haitian people. It’s a way to honor their history while looking forward to a bright and hopeful future.
Resolutions for the New Year
This year feels particularly exciting with so much change on the horizon. Here are my goals for 2025:
- Embracing Minimalism:
We’re downsizing, and I’m looking forward to a more minimalist lifestyle. Simplifying our space feels like a fresh start for us and I am excited to have a smaller space to clean haha! - Preparing for a Shift in Family Dynamics:
With a little one on the way, I’m soaking in this special time while getting ready for our growing family. Being present with my daughter before we have a change in dynamic is a big goal of mine. - Focusing on My Business:
Growing my practice and continuing to empower women through pelvic health will be a major focus. I’m excited to connect with more clients and expand my offerings. - Spending Quality Time with My Husband:
Amid all the busyness, I want to prioritize meaningful moments with my husband. Whether it’s watching a movie together, sitting down for breakfast on the weekends, finding quiet time amid the chaos to nurture our relationship is at the top of my list. - Embracing Change:
For me, 2025 is also about embracing change. This year, my focus word is embrace. We have a lot of changes coming our way, and I want to embrace them all. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by change, I want to welcome it with open arms and find joy in every step of the journey.
Looking Ahead
As we move into this new year, I’m filled with gratitude and anticipation. Here’s to traditions that ground us, goals that inspire us, and the joy of welcoming what’s to come. Happy New Year!