Hello, my friends! It’s so good to hear from you before the end of the year. And what an eventful year it’s been.
I didn’t mention this at all in the last tinatalk, so it’s necessary that I tell you now: this year, I co-founded a boutique and gallery called forecast. Yes, it’s the same shop I was working on last year (mentioned in that lone episode of tinatalk tv from fall 2022!). I’m really proud of how quickly the project got off the ground, and have many partners to thank for making this dream come true (particularly, C, A, and J).
It’s taken a few years to shift my mindset from one of constant preparation to “learn by doing.” Generally, these days I prefer to start a task sooner so I can form an opinion of it and possibly do it longer or more often. I’ve stopped squirreling away, and started taking more trust falls. This mode of experience-first has given me the low standards I needed to just start: sign a lease, order product, try to articulate an idea into words and pictures for the first time. I’ve tried hard to refrain from judgment along the way, which is a big development for my hapless inner critic. These days, I’m closer to my dream of becoming a savvy and creative businesswoman…
In a dream exercise the other day, I wrote out some tenants of the life projects and identity I wanted to imbue. I’m practicing not saying them aloud everywhere (my actions will speak for me), but I hope you’ll see me in the coming years and remark on my architecture. The timeline is about five to ten years.
Anyways, the now: My favorite tools these days are my pocket knife and a portable tape measure. I’m finding it so useful to measure the world around me, and act upon it quickly. Since the founding of forecast, my days look physically different. I’m online half as much as I used to be, which is fine. The shop begets a new mental and physical routine. I am overcoming a bad habit of not eating lunch… so much to do! It’s also been a practice in bravery to share my life more often, which I’m doing through Instagram (and as always, this newsletter). I’ve been curious to connect with other small business owners in retail and food & bev (introduce me!). And I’m still making time in my life for seeking inspiration, gently practicing art (photography), deep friendship, and fitness.
Final bits
What’s the last activity you did that was really fun, and maybe a little wild?
Reading substacks has gotten me inspired – so many wonderful voices out there! It’s also made me think about my influences in years past, and feeling an appreciation for where I am today. I’ve been particularly enjoying Shop Rat, by Emilia Petrarca, Maybe Baby by Haley Nahman, and Laurel’s Letter by Laurel Schwulst
It’s far too late for this, who cares. My 2023 EOY Wishlist:
Puzzles: fantastic way to give art.
Walking shoes (Merrell?): I’m not a girl who breaks shoes in; they need to come ready. A flat would be best – either a loafer, mule, or sandal. This would fill my shoe-duo travel theory… You only need two shoes when traveling: one for working out and walking far distances, another for nicer gatherings that packs light and bring elegance to an outfit.
Touchscreen gloves, preferably leather. Please make them inexpensive, they’re not worth stressing over.
A hood for my head: I’m not interested in beanies, which are often too tight on the skull and mess up a hair style. A chic hood solves that.
A waterproof baseball cap: When I am willing to explore headwear, a baseball cap does the trick. It’s actually been difficult to find one with a good shape. Might as well give it some technical qualities, while you’re at it.
Credit to a nail or hair salon: Let yourself look good
Vietnamese cook book: Simple, easy, fun. Not offensive to me.
Workout clothes: This is on my list every year; this year, I’m interested in a lightweight, long sleeve, removable top layer (jacket?) for working out, or running shorts (I’ve had my eye on these by Satisfy Running). I’m also open to expanding my workout wardrobe color universe beyond black.
I’ll be ending my year via the Year Compass, which I’ve dutifully completed every year since 2018 (albeit, sometimes by Feb of the new year). Text me or respond with your word of 2024 when you’re done with yours
These are always so fun. The future awaits!!!
xox
Tina