Now that the stunning firework displays and New Year’s festivities have faded to memories, reality has set in: it is now 2022.

Last year was a roller coaster of events ranging from the successful return of several community events to Winter Storm Uri that left close to 4.5 million homes and businesses without water at its peak, according to a release from the University of Houston Hobby School of Public Affairs. This year, some are hoping for an equally unpredictable and exciting 12 months while others are crossing their fingers for stability.

No matter your wishes for 2022, the new year provides an opportunity to reassess goals and approach life with revitalized energy. The Sealy News spoke with community members around Austin County to see what the new year meant to them.

“I think it’s an opportunity to look back at the year that passed (to) see what you have accomplished and maybe what goals from the previous year weren’t as relevant in the end and adjust for your next year and set some goals,” said Eagle Lake resident Saida Sarsendeklva.

Sarsendeklva expressed that she was grateful for the action-packed year that 2021 brought, but was hoping for a calmer new year.

“I moved here (in 2021); I lived in Turkey for a while. I met my fiancé. I quit my job, which is really cool for me. I think I’ve had a pretty good year,” Sarsendeklva said. “I hope to find more stability (in 2022), it is fun to move around but I want to have a home base and maybe just get on top of all the boring adult stuff.”

Gabriella Espinoza echoed positive sentiments towards last year, but she anticipated a hectic new year with a baby and a new business on the way.

“For me, right now it’s a little scary because I’m bringing in this new baby. I recently just started up my own business which is a hair salon located in Katy,” said Espinoza. “Sad to say goodbye to 2021 just because it was such a good year for me with realizations. I’m just excited for 2022 and what it has to offer.”

For some, 2022 is a thrilling prospect because it could mean more medical and technological advancements concerning the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I think it’s going to be better (health-wise) and financially things will turn around and get better,” said Gary Quinton optimistically. “I’m excited about 2022 because we’re going to find a better solution to the (COVID-19) problem and take care of that.”

Of the locals interviewed, the verdict was split fairly evenly on the effectiveness of New Year’s resolutions. While some rattled off a list of goals they hoped to accomplish, others insisted on keeping theirs to themselves as part of their superstition.

“Usually, if you say it out loud it won’t happen,” said Martha Scott of New Year’s resolutions. “I think everybody needs to calm down and let life happen.”