Hi, Lilac buds! Kristina here.
Can you believe how fast this year is going? It feels like 2026 just started, yet somehow, we’re already almost in May!
This year, I made it my goal say “yes” more, to new things, new routines, and anything that pushes me a little out of my comfort zone. And I have to say, it’s been such a nice change.
So here are 7 things I started doing this year.
1. I started posting more content
This one is HUGE for me! Whether it’s content, writing, or just sharing ideas, I’ve always loved creating. But I’ve also always been really scared to put myself out there.
Lately, I’m starting to realize that A, success really is on the other side of cringe mountain, and B, it matters more that I enjoy it than what anyone else thinks.
All this to say, I’m so proud of myself for finally going for it! I even landed my first collaborations and started my 30 at 30 series!
Photo from Instagram
2. I joined a club
I used to be in a lot of clubs growing up, and I didn’t realize how much I missed that. So when I got a DM inviting me to join a cookbook club, it felt like a sign!
Each month, we pick a cookbook, everyone chooses a recipe to make, and we bring it all together for a potluck. It’s been such a fun way to meet other foodies and home cooks, and it even got me into collecting cookbooks myself.
My favourite Cookbook Club night so far was a Galentine’s Day theme where we all made desserts from Dessert Person by Claire Saffitz.
Photo from Instagram
3. I started hosting more
I’ve always loved having people over. My favourite part is always watching people who didn’t know each other become friends in a space I created.
Earlier this month, I hosted an XO, Kitty watch party, and even had a pocha-style Korean potluck. It was so fun making decorations, putting together the final food spread, and seeing different friend groups come together.
I won’t reveal too much here (you’ll have to see the videos when I post them on Instagram!), but for now, here’s a little sneak peek of the paper stars I cut out and hung on my chandelier.
Photo from Instagram
4. I’ve been spending a lot of time in the water
Because of some recent health issues, I haven’t been able to do the same high-intensity workouts I used to love, like running or kickboxing. So I’ve been getting into swimming instead, and it’s been really refreshing (AND I get to wear my cute swimsuits more often!).
I love swimming back and forth across the pool at my own pace, and challenging myself not to touch the floor the whole time. Plus, I usually end my pool sessions with a few minutes in the oh so relaxing hot tub!
Photo from Pinterest
5. I try to read at least 10 pages a day
I’ve always loved reading, but sometimes, life just gets so busy that I end up just listening to audiobooks instead.
In 2026, I made it my goal to read at least 10 pages a day. There’s something different about sitting down with a physical book, and actually slowing down.
My favourite is reading in the morning, in my cozy PJs, either in bed or on the couch, with a nice cup of coffee. It’s such a calm way to start my day, and sometimes I get so into a book that 10 pages turns into a whole third of it without even realizing!
Photo from Pinterest
6. I’ve been experimenting with skincare
Skincare can be so expensive that growing up, I’ve always just used whatever was accessible to me, and hoped for the best.
But when I did my first-ever skin analysis not too long ago, and found out my skin age was actually older than me (gasp!), it made me want to start paying more attention.
Since then, I’ve been experimenting more, and getting to know what actually works for my skin. So far, I’ve been loving the poremizing set from SKIN1004… but more on that in a blog post soon!
Photo from Pinterest
7. I started applying for jobs again
I’ve been working freelance for quite a while now (ever since I got laid off my corporate job), and it’s been lots of much.
I’ve loved the flexibility and getting to work on different projects. But at the same time, I’ve been missing certain parts of working in a more structured environment.
That’s why I’ve started applying for jobs again and exploring new opportunities. And the nice thing is, freelance will always be there, whether it’s something I’ll keep doing on the side or come back to later on.
Photo from Pinterest
So that’s a little glimpse into what my year has looked like so far!
Now I’d love to know: What have you been up to lately? Let me know in the comments!
The Lilac Blog 