Reflections on 2024: A Journey of Transformation
Me
As the year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on all that has come to pass in 2024. It has been a year of profound change, growth, and unexpected blessings—none of which I could have foreseen as I stood at the threshold of the year.
On New Year’s Eve 2023, I attended a Vision Boarding workshop led by Bones Moon at Sticks and Stones in Fairfax. I walked in carrying the weight of a grueling year, feeling unsure of how to chart a path forward. What I couldn’t grasp at the time was the extraordinary power of setting intentions. That evening would plant seeds that would bloom in ways I couldn’t have imagined, transforming my life in ways I desperately needed.
At the time, I was caught in an emotional crisis, clinging to a relationship that was unraveling before my eyes. I was lost—like a wanderer in a dark, foggy wood—desperate for guidance but unsure of how to find it. Yet, the universe heard my silent plea. It responded with love and vigor, sending two remarkable women who would illuminate my path and guide me from darkness into light.
Before creating my vision board that evening, I drew an oracle card from a shared deck. I picked the “Clearing” card. Slowly, I read its message, allowing its wisdom to sink in. The words resonated deeply, pointing out areas in my life that were crying out for change. The message wasn’t subtle; it shouted from the rooftops: If nothing changes, nothing changes.
I attached the “Clearing” card to my board and wrote down its essence:
Clearing Card
Take time to rid yourself of negativity. Allow another to carry away your burdens. Reflect on your innermost journey. Hold an egg in the palm of your hand and share your fears, worries, and anxieties with it; then release it with care. Remember that dark thoughts and challenges visit us all, but we must let go of these burdens to move forward. Seek the support of a trusted friend, or offer yourself as a vessel for someone else’s release. Go within. See which role you must play today. It’s okay to sit together with a friend and clear the air—and yourselves.
I wrote beneath it: Blessed are those who let go of their pasts to embrace the joys of their future. Little did I know then how powerfully this intention would shape my year.
In February, I began the slow process of unblocking my energy, but it wasn’t until Easter Sunday, March 31st, that the true clearing took place. That day, with an egg in my hand and the support of another, I released my fears and anxieties—and I ended a nearly four-year relationship that had drained the life from me. The twist? The person by my side that day was none other than my partner’s other girlfriend.
When we discovered each other’s existence, we chose solidarity over division. Together, we unburdened ourselves from a toxic relationship and supported one another through the pain of withdrawal. It was an act of radical love and self-liberation. Together, we closed the door on him and opened the door to freedom.
The months that followed were a season of grounding. I poured my energy into creating a new home and building connections rooted in love and authenticity. I imagined myself as an oak tree: deeply rooted, standing strong, and offering branches for others to perch upon. But I vowed never again to let anyone uproot me. I would bend with the winds of change, but my roots would remain firm.
Prague
By summer, I felt ready to invite joy and play back into my life. This Taurus, naturally serious, learned to prioritize fun, weaving it into the fabric of my days. The universe met me with opportunities for adventure and delight. I traveled to Austria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, England, Kenya, Romania, Serbia, and Slovakia. At home, I attended concerts, reconnected with old friends, and even joined a mindfulness retreat at Kripalu with my best friend.
Speaking of my best friend, she is one of the greatest gifts of 2024. We met at that very vision boarding workshop, and our bond quickly became one of the most transformative relationships in my life. She was one of the women who helped light my path out of darkness, showing me the power of intention, connection, and love.
Sunset at December’s Simplicity Living Circle
Throughout the year, my spirituality deepened in ways I could never have anticipated. Starting with the “Clearing,” I began experiencing what I can only describe as “Spiritual Downloads”—messages that came not from my mind but directly from Spirit. These moments of clarity and connection became more frequent and profound, culminating in what I now call spiritual hat tricks—synchronistic events that left me in awe and gratitude.
Another highlight of the year was the relaunch of the Simplicity Living Circle in November, co-hosted with my dear friend Nikki Zalesak. Together, we created a space for healing, connection, and intentional living—work that fills my soul and brings joy to others.
As I close the chapter on this remarkable year, I am filled with gratitude. 2024 has been a year of letting go, stepping into my power, and saying yes to myself. It has been a year of transformation, joy, and purpose.
Looking ahead to 2025, my intentions are clear: to spread joy and simplicity, to inspire others to rewild their lives, and to lean boldly into my biggest dreams yet.
Here’s to the magic of intention and the infinite possibilities of a new year.
Love and Light,
Dani