In a world dominated by digital technology, where social media notifications dictate daily routines, one Park City resident has made a bold decision to step back and embrace an analog lifestyle. Kate Sonnick, a local writer, has declared 2026 as her 'analog new year,' vowing to sever ties with digital platforms and revert to more traditional methods of communication, navigation, and leisure. This unique lifestyle choice reflects a growing trend among individuals seeking to escape the relentless pace of modern life and reconnect with simpler, more tangible experiences. Sonnick’s commitment to her analog lifestyle began with small changes that quickly escalated into a full transformation. In her cozy home, she sits by a woodstove, dressed in a lovingly mended wool skirt, as she types her latest column on a vintage Royal typewriter—a machine notable for its broken 'e' key. "I’m not completely forsaking work, but I’ll be sending my articles through the U.S. mail instead of emailing them. You can expect a postcard featuring a squirrel waterskiing on Lake George, with my writing carefully enclosed in a vintage interdepartmental envelope from 1992," she remarked humorously. The decision to deactivate her Instagram account was not taken lightly. Instead of sharing her daily life online, Sonnick now plans to document her experiences through rolls of Kodak Instamatic film, which will be developed and tucked away in a shoebox for years. “It’s about savoring the moment rather than sharing it instantly,” she explained. This shift highlights a broader desire for mindfulness and authenticity, as many individuals find themselves overwhelmed by the constant barrage of digital stimuli. Moreover, Sonnick has opted for a more old-fashioned approach to fitness. By abandoning fitness-tracking apps like Strava, she aims to record her workouts through muscle memory alone. Instead of seeking validation through likes or virtual accolades, she has decided to measure her success by simply enjoying her time outdoors and staying active. “I’ll be tracking my fitness by how I feel, not by what an app tells me,” she stated firmly. Books are another area where Sonnick is committed to maintaining her analog lifestyle. She has declared that all reading will be done with physical books, preferably hardcover, as she eschews audiobooks and e-readers. “There’s something special about the smell of old paper and the tactile experience of turning pages,” she noted, emphasizing her desire for a deeper connection with the written word. This shift underscores a growing concern about the impact of digital media on attention spans and cognitive engagement. In navigating her surroundings, Sonnick has also chosen to forgo GPS technology in favor of traditional maps and detailed verbal directions. “I want to know the landmarks and the stories behind them, not just follow a digital voice telling me where to go,” she explained. By seeking out specific landmarks, such as the old PCMR lifties miner’s shack recently sold for $2.5 million, she hopes to create a richer understanding of her community and its history. Music is yet another aspect of Sonnick’s life that has undergone a transformation. She recently acquired a vintage record player, along with a collection of vinyl records, including a particularly quirky double album titled “Enter Me Lord.” “There’s a warmth to vinyl that you just can’t replicate with digital music. It’s about creating an atmosphere and really enjoying the experience,” she said. This choice speaks to a desire for authenticity and nostalgia in an age where music is often consumed in fleeting snippets. Sonnick is also reviving the use of a landline telephone, opting for a classic red dial phone that harkens back to a simpler time. “I might not use it much, but it’s a charming reminder of how communication used to be,” she said. The decision to return to cursive handwriting serves as a final touchstone, as she plans to embrace the art of writing letters instead of sending texts or emails. “There’s something personal about putting pen to paper that makes communication feel more genuine,” she mused. As she embarks on this journey, Sonnick acknowledges the skepticism surrounding her choice. “Some might see this as nostalgia or a daydream, but it’s a conscious decision to live more intentionally,” she explained. While many may question the practicality of such a lifestyle in today’s fast-paced world, Sonnick’s story resonates with those who yearn for a simpler existence, reminding us all of the beauty found in the analog moments of life. In conclusion, Kate Sonnick’s transition to an analog lifestyle is more than just a personal preference; it symbolizes a growing movement towards mindfulness and authenticity in an increasingly digital world. Her experiences serve as a reminder that, even in a time dominated by technology, there is still value in embracing the simplicity and richness of life’s analog moments.