Happy Anniversary Holos!

One year ago, I published my first issue of Holos. Today’s issue is number 52. I honestly can’t believe it.

I am incredibly grateful to everyone who has subscribed, who has forwarded it to friends, and who reads it. Time is valuable and finite, our most precocious commodity. Thank you for spending some of your time reading Holos.

I have loved hearing from you over the past year and appreciate all the comments, feedback, and notes of encouragement. Don’t stop! Writing can be lonely sometimes and hearing from you makes me feel more connected. As we continue our midlife journey together, please let me know how I can make Holos relevant, additive, and a good use of your time.

As I head into year 2, I look forward to continuing to explore the midlife journey with all of you. To that end, I’m working on a couple of interesting projects which will enable me to delve deeper into this unique and special time in our lives. Stay tuned!

A Favor

Now I know you are all thinking, “What can I get Holos for its’ birthday?” Well, a few years ago my husband threw me a birthday party where instead of gifts everyone had to bring a joke. To say it was hilarious would be an understatement. Now Holos doesn’t need any jokes, but it can always use more subscribers.

I would be grateful and delighted if you would take a moment to share your favorite issue of Holos (full archive here) or one of the upcoming ones with a friend or colleague. Word of mouth is the best way to grow and helps make Holos viable.

If you have recently become a subscriber, this issue on acceptance and this issue on sex & intimacy have been some of the most popular. You can access the full archive here.

A Moment to Pause & Celebrate

When I started Holos, I committed to it for a year. I promised myself I wouldn’t worry about how many people read it or stress about what it might become. I would keep my head down, focus on the writing, and let it evolve organically. I would focus on the journey, putting one foot in front of the other, and not worry about where it was taking me.

For the most part I have managed to keep my promise to myself. My focus has been putting out quality content, something I would want to read. The last year has been an exercise in being present (something I crave) and in being humble (no fancy title, no salary).

Rarely in my life have I done something “just because.” And I think this is a skill or habit, whatever you want to call it, I need to practice. For the validation to come from within, rather than externally. To be in the moment, not worrying about the future.

So tonight, what I will celebrate is having the courage to try something new, the new connections I have made, and the new skills I have learned.

Parting Thought

“Remember to celebrate milestones as you prepare for the road ahead.” ~ Nelson Mandela

See you next week…