Every year, one tree in my neighborhood jumps the gun and starts changing color in the middle of July. And every year, it sparks something in me — not dread for the end of summer, but joy for the season ahead.

From misplaced keys to rekindled purpose, contractor no-shows to acts of kindness, this post offers a warm, witty, and very human New Year’s wish list. A reminder that it’s never too late to start again — with grace, humor, and maybe a pair of pink stilettos.