The First Day of 2024

I missed the New Year's Eve fireworks and slept through the night. I woke up around 7 AM on the first day of 2024, and had a regular morning exercise before having breakfast: a piece of banana, a full glass of water, and three pieces of kue pukis. 

While enjoying that morning's meal, I cannot help but realize that my last night's sleep was exquisite, knowing that I didn't even awaken by the fireworks or any noise. As long as I can remember, I had two nights like that during 2023: the first one was when I slept over at Tika's place in Depok, and the second one was when I took a girls' trip to Bandung with my high schoolmates last December. 

To my surprise, having a restful sleep is a true blessing. Being completely unaware of the New Year's Eve festivities felt liberating as if I had been released from the pressure of chasing fleeting moments. I embraced the calmness of the morning, recognizing that the true beauty of a new year lies not in the grand spectacle of fireworks, but in the simple pleasures that fill each passing day.

So I went to that secluded garden at Gelora Bung Karno too that afternoon (as seen in the picture above); taking a leisurely walk and then embarking on a run. I relished a moment of solitude as the day gradually turned dark, immersing myself in the tranquility of that very first day of a new beginning. 

2023 was a year filled with adventures, and I somehow feel good about 2024. I don't know it yet, but *fingers crossed* I eagerly anticipate the fulfillment of at least one of my childhood dreams this year. Cheers! ✨