January often feels like the longest month of the year. The days are cold, the nights come early, and the holiday buzz gives way to quiet stillness. But instead of letting that stillness feel heavy, I’ve learned to embrace it as a time for new beginnings—a chance to find joy in trying new hobbies and decluttering my life.
This “between time” is a perfect opportunity to work on creative projects. This year, I’ve taken up painting bricks (yes, bricks!) to add a little color and charm to my space. It’s messy and fun, and it reminds me that even the simplest things can transform into something beautiful.
I’ve also been decluttering with a simple rule: if I haven’t used something within a reasonable amount of time, it’s time to pass it on. Thanks to this rule, my long-tucked-away teacups and teapots are finally seeing the light of day. I’ve been brewing tea and sipping from them during quiet moments, and it feels like a little celebration of the everyday.
My stories often show this idea of trying new things and simplifying life. When my characters are in a “healing period”— a.k.a. recovering from heartbreak—they, too, turn to new hobbies. These quiet moments of creativity and exploration help them rediscover themselves.
In my Ashbrook, Montana series, Gina tried knitting and crocheting. Her yarn fiascos were a point of humor. They were also the background for necessary conversations with her father. Amanda, also from Ashbrook, Montana took up running. At first, it was just an outlet for frustration, but it quickly became a source of strength and clarity. And then there’s Sam from my Paradise Hills series, who tried and failed at baking.
As it is with life, not all hobbies are winners, and that’s okay. It’s the fun of trying that matters. Hobbies create moments for introspection, healing, and finding joy in unexpected places. They remind us that we're still moving forward, even in the quietest seasons of life.
So, as we settle into the rhythm of this new year, I encourage you to try something new—whether it’s decluttering a long-forgotten corner or diving into a creative project you’ve been curious about. You might just learn something unexpected about yourself along the way.
I’ve shared what’s happening with me and my characters. What’s going on in your slice of the world? Have you started or resumed any hobbies? I’d love to hear your stories—feel free to share them in the comments!
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Here's a different take on January from my upcoming release, Be My Grumpy Valentine
Kelly’s mom used to say the first three weeks of January were a test. The necessary jolt back to reality did things to people. After weeks of festivities and connections, people into cranky dispositions. Some relieved to return to the routine were calm, pleasant, and fun to be around.
Then, there was the accumulation of shorter days. Seasonal depression was real. Kelly had felt it. She was inclined to sleep more. Her head was fuzzy. Crying happened.
When she thought things would get worse, life had given her a message. Through, of all people–Eugene.
They were nearing the end of the Monopoly game without there being a clear winner. He pointed at the big screen television. “Is that Jeff.?”
All eyes turned to the screen with one of those ski lodge scenes. It was a fireplace with a couch laden with several pillows. From the window, there were trees and snowfall.
In half a second, everyone’s gaze was averted to the television, he slid the Reading Railroad card onto Kelly’s stack. He’d remembered her favorite landing spot on the Monopoly game.
“You’re kidding, right?” His cousin, Charlotte, was not impressed with the obvious diversion.
His why do you question my intentions face was convincing when he said, “I thought I saw someone who looked like him skiing in the background.”
His kindness wrapped around Kelly's shoulders like a hug.
It also called into question resentment that Kelly had built up since he’d given her the cold shoulder the year prior.
Kelly's mind crackled, trying to sort through the confusion. She’d asked him out on a date, and he showed up with another woman. Had someone spoken to him and he was trying to make amends? Had her withdrawal from their friendship given him room to reflect on his actions? Was she overthinking the situation?
With no definitive answer, the questions pinged in her mind for the entirety of the walk from her coworking office space to the pharmacy on the edge of Main Street.
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Be My Grumpy Valentine is one of 18 heartwarming stories in the Valentines Sweethearts collection. Join this fun group of couples as they navigate humor, heart, and a little help from Cupid on their path to happily ever after! You can learn more about these stories by visiting the series page
