typing… by Rolando

Reflecting on 2025

Not quite sure what happened this year but I definitely feel like it was momentous.

In no particular order:

  • Traveled to China for the first time. Got to see Shanghai and met my wife’s extended family.
  • Grew my following on social media considerably. Mainly in Threads which somehow surprises people as a place that exists.
  • Earned 4 figures on an app I built. Which gave me validation to try new ideas over and over.
  • Got back to my web roots and built Ballpark. Also revived one of my favorite past projects based on that experience.
  • Went camping with my son and made some legit steak.
  • Went to Six Flags (obviously.)
  • Switched jobs to a more fulfilling and challenging management position.
  • Traveled to Bolivia and visited the Uyuni Salt Flats. My wife got to meet my extended family which was super important to me.
  • Finally grew plants and they haven’t died (trying hard not to jinx it.)
  • Kiiiinda retired from YouTube, for now. It’s proven a bit hard to justify given my limited amount of time.
  • Freelanced a bit which broaden my horizons in the indie scene.
  • Went to the movie theater all by myself like a big boy to watch Bring Her Back.
  • Fell more in love with Philly since the move from NY/NJ.
  • Got my finances in order (more or less.)
  • Went back to therapy with a wonderful counselor who’s very flexible.
  • Slooowly managing to have a healthier sleep schedule.
  • Went to Mexico City with the company which was really fun. Got to try some costras which were delish.
  • Karaoke’d 3 times because you have to. Also started singing lessons (I take this seriously.)
  • Went to Mallorca for Cyan’s 30th. My favorite part was driving in the country side with some good music vibes with our friends.
  • Stopped going to the gym as much. But I am eating healthier/less.
  • Went to see Japanese Breakfast and SPELLLING. Separate occassions, both vibey.
  • Read (ok, half-read) Courage to be Disliked but thoroughly enjoyed the philosophy.
  • Taught my son the foundations of how to code with and without AI.
  • Also finally got to spend time in Toronto proper for a couple of days. Surprisingly great Asian food.

If I think of more I’ll add. I still got like 29 more days, right?