The Weekly Pull

“Intentional living isn’t about doing more—it’s about choosing what truly matters, so your cup is filled from the inside out.”
— Pull the Line

We are only five days into the new year, and already the pressure can feel heavy. Are you sticking to your goals? Are you already shelving them? Have you missed a workout, slept through an early alarm, or chosen comfort over discipline once or twice and told yourself, Well, there goes that plan?

I continually remind myself that life does not have to be so rigid. We are the captains of our ship, after all. And while a map is helpful, no journey unfolds exactly as planned.

As you navigate this year, remember that life may require you to tweak or completely change your goals as it unfolds. This life is full of unforeseen events—both good and bad—that are thrown at us without warning. Opportunities arise. Challenges appear. Loss happens. Joy surprises us. So how are we expected to keep moving forward with the same intentions no matter what?

The truth is, depending on the event, we may or may not be able to—and that’s okay.

Progress isn’t about rigidly holding onto a plan at all costs. It’s about adjusting your sails when the wind changes and continuing forward anyway. Sometimes that means slowing down. Sometimes it means pivoting. And sometimes it means letting go of a goal that no longer fits the season you’re in.

As you move through this year, I encourage you to stay grounded in what matters most to you. When your intentions are rooted in your values rather than perfection, the year has a way of becoming beautiful and memorable—filled with intentional acts and stories worth sharing.

I don’t remember if I’ve shared this with you before, but my best friend once told me about something that really stuck with me: a “life list.” A motivational speaker came to her company and talked about creating a life list instead of a bucket list. The difference? A bucket list often feels far-off, saved for retirement or “someday.” A life list is meant for now.

A life list includes anything you’ve ever wanted to try or do—big dreams and tiny joys alike. Nothing is too small to count. The goal is to start now, not later. Not when life slows down. Not when the timing feels perfect.

Maybe it’s indulging in a three-scoop ice cream cone just because you can. Maybe it’s trying a new ethnic restaurant, taking a solo walk at sunrise, learning a dance style you’ve always admired, or finally saying yes to something that scares you a little.

My best friend and I shared our life lists with each other in the notes on our phones. Over time, we’ve surprised one another by quietly checking things off—turning everyday moments into celebrations. It’s been one of the simplest yet most meaningful ways to stay present and curious, instead of letting the days slip by unnoticed.

This approach has reminded me that a fulfilling year isn’t built only on big accomplishments. It’s built on moments—moments of fun, courage, connection, and movement.

So if the new year already feels like it’s testing you, take a breath. You haven’t failed. You’re just living. Adjust your course if you need to, but keep moving forward. Keep choosing what brings you energy, joy, and purpose.

I hope to hear from you if you decide to make your own life list, and maybe we can chat about it at the end of the year. Until then, may your days be filled with fun, friends, good food, and lots of movement—because when you keep moving, you keep doing.

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Recipe to Share

Luna De Noche’s Cilantro Salsa

This bold, vibrant salsa is herb-forward with a slow-building heat. It’s perfect for large gatherings, meal prep, or anyone who believes salsa should never be in short supply. The flavor deepens beautifully over time. This has been a family favorite since my kids were little.

Ingredients

• 2 (32-oz) cans whole peeled tomatoes
• 3 jalapeño peppers
• 5 bunches fresh cilantro
• 2 tbsp granulated garlic
• 2 tbsp salt
• 2 tbsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the jalapeños
   Boil the jalapeños until tender. Drain, then remove and discard the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
2. Prep the cilantro
   • From one bunch, remove and discard the stalks. Coarsely chop the leaves and set aside—this will be added at the end.
   • From the remaining four bunches, remove and discard the stalks entirely.
3. Blend in batches
   Working in batches, add tomatoes, the prepared cilantro (except the chopped reserved bunch), and jalapeños to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
   Pour each batch into a large bowl as you go.
4. Season
   Once everything is blended, add granulated garlic, salt, red pepper flakes, vegetable oil, and black pepper. Stir well with a spoon to fully combine.
5. Finish with fresh cilantro
   Add the reserved chopped cilantro and mix again.
6. Rest and serve
   Allow the salsa to rest—its flavor intensifies over time.

Yield

Many, many servings.

Perfect for chips, tacos, eggs, grilled meats, or any moment that calls for big flavor. 🌿🔥