The Funny Side

Reflecting on 2023

Dear Swee-tea,

I would love to know what 2023 was like for you, so please hit reply and let me know!

If Tea with HB has helped you this year, or you want to support my mission to create a more inclusive and compassionate world, please donate here or become a patron to access bonus content!

Products for Chronic Pain and Mental Health I have used this year (I earn a small commission if you buy through this link!)

2023 was yet another year of serious illness for me and my loved ones. But I will not let it be defined by heartbreak or disappointment or fear for my life. I cannot. Because it was so much more. It always is, and thank goodness for that. I have not nonly survived another year, I have, albeit reluctantly, thrived. This was the year I created my own website, reaching thousands of vulnerable people across the world, and all because of the support from this very communi-tea. This was the year of Poetry Orchard, creating writing workshops with two of the best people I have ever had the pleasure to know, and meeting incredible writers. This was the year my brother got married and I became an aunt! The memories I have made with my family are ones I will treasure forever.

2023 was deceptive. It threw my worst fears at me and laughed, but now I think I see the funny side.

Because 2023 was also the year of… ‘Everything, Everywhere, All At Once’, the Barbie movie, Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Anne of Green Gables, Heartstopper, and Percy Jackson. If you are going to have a difficult time, art is what you need to get through it. Art is how we cope: creation and consumption. Making stories to tell each other ‘Hey, I survived this. I believe you will too.’

For a complete list of my favourite books, films, tv shows, music, games, and more from this year, check out TeawithHB.com!

Love,

HB x