01/05/2026
Hi Buddies,
Looking Ahead
As we head into a new year, there’s a sense of energy and possibility in the air. Many of us are thinking about how we want to support ourselves — physically, mentally, and emotionally — as we move into 2026.
Research on New Year’s resolutions suggests that goals framed around adding positive actions tend to be more successful than goals focused on avoiding behaviors. In other words, intentions like “I will move more” or “I will nourish myself well” are often easier to sustain than goals centered on what we want to stop doing.
(For those interested, this insight comes from a large-scale, peer-reviewed study available through the National Center for Biotechnology Information:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7725288/)
A New Years Day Tradition
In many cultures, New Year’s Day foods are chosen not just for flavor, but for what they represent. In Italy, lentils are traditionally eaten on New Year’s Day as a symbol of prosperity and good fortune in the year ahead. Shaped like small coins, they’re meant to represent abundance and stability as the new year begins.
You’ll find similar ideas around the world —
in the Southern U.S., black-eyed peas are eaten for luck;
in Spain, twelve grapes are enjoyed at midnight to welcome the months ahead;
and in Japan, long soba noodles symbolize resilience and longevity.
Whether you follow a tradition like this or create one of your own, it’s a gentle reminder that the start of the year can feel intentional without needing to be complicated.
Easy New Year’s Lentil Soup
(Simple, comforting, and flexible)
1 cup lentils
1 small onion, chopped
1–2 cloves garlic
4 cups broth
Olive oil, salt, and pepper
Optional: carrots, celery, spinach, or herbs
Simmer everything together until the lentils are tender. Adjust seasoning, add greens if you like, and serve warm.
ICYMI…
Gabilein — Had a great Day #1. Congratulations!
Mouse — Found a squat challenge to keep her motivated.
Aquila1990 — Stayed within her calorie goal and succeeded!
Liz4 — Posted a few of her goals for 2026 — realistic and inspiring.
Mandalee — Received her vibration plate and is ready to start shaking!
Leaderboard
#1 mfmchard
#2 Blom
#3 MG175in2024
Thank you for helping make this community what it is.
MG175in2024 shared a beautiful photo from his Christmas walk in the woods — a perfect way to close out the year. Thank you for another moving contribution
Look for your daily post reminding you to stay hydrated and keep moving. If you choose to leave a comment, great. If not, let it simply serve as your reminder.
Have a great week. Stay close, and post often.
Your buddy,
Tea