In brief
A glimpse into cherished experiences, from books to personal revelations that defined the year.
As the year draws to a close, there’s comfort in the winding down of various responsibilities, as the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life takes a backseat to holiday festivities. Today, December 21, marks the winter solstice, a moment when many review their highs and lows of the past year. Readers of The Morning have shared a treasure trove of personal favorites that encapsulate their experiences in 2024, offering a comforting touch of nostalgia before we enter the new year.In reflecting on some of my best moments from the year, I can’t overlook the profound impact of Miranda July’s “All Fours,” which stood out as the best book I read. An extraordinary performance that left a lasting impression was Joshua Jay's mind-bending magic show, “Look Closer.” My year-long quest to recreate the beloved Roma sandwich from Cafe Europa culminated in a delicious mix of cucumbers, mozzarella, alfalfa sprouts, artichoke hearts, and a tangy drizzle of balsamic vinegar and olive oil on a fresh baguette, even if I’m still refining those proportions.Among other treasures were the emotional experience of watching “Illinoise” at the Park Avenue Armory, discovering that hot mint tea became a comforting staple, and enjoying “Blame Brett” by The Beaches for lifting my spirits during down moments. Charlotte Cornfield’s music provided an excellent backdrop for those moments when I needed to reflect and recharge.Readers also contributed their memorable experiences: Elaina Kane from Goshen, Indiana, hosted an inspiring open mic night in her yard, sparking joy and community. Meanwhile, Chicago’s Shelby Yuan finds bliss in the leisurely “post-breakfast nap,” and Grayson Hester from Atlanta made the liberating realization that a change in scenery could enhance his happiness. Lastly, Sarah McKetta from New York confirmed that upgrading to an induction stove has transformed her kitchen experience.As I sift through these shared highlights, I look forward to warming our longest nights with stories, laughter, and cherished memories. Here’s to celebrating what we accomplished in 2024 before we dive into everything the new year promises.
