Looking back upon the final hours of 2011, I'm grateful for the celebration time spent with my family. The year flew by with friends, activities, travel, and sorrows. My still new business more than doubled in its first full year. And, my still new marriage thrived. I suppose, more than anything else positive, our first full calendar year of marriage is what (for me) 2011 will always represent.
Although, I imagine, for my mom, it will represent the year she lost the love of her life. My step-father, Richard, passed on September 7th. Two months later, my father passed as well. I can't really explain losing two dads in two months. It is something you just have to experience to understand. Surreal would be a good attempt. I surely can't recommend it. Most of all, I'm sad. Sad for my mother that she is now alone. It doesn't seem right, and it doesn't seem fair. She deserves to be whole and happy.
Today, the first day of the new year, I was lucky enough to spend with family and friends. Every minute of it made sweeter by my adoring husband. Most moments, I shake my head in awe of how blessed I am. Still, I'm starting to ask less and less, "what did I do to get so lucky?" Instead, I'm just trying to savor it and never cease being thankful.
The year ahead will be whatever it is. And no, I don't believe the world will be ending on December 21st. It's going to be busy, that is for sure! January's calendar is already filled with conferences, meetings, and things for the kids. Some things never change..... thank goodness! I have people depending upon me, I have a job, and I have three teenagers that can't decide whether or not they like me.
So off we go into 2012.... no promises, but I'm going to try to blog everyday and see where it leads me. If nothing else, it will be fun to look back at the end of the year and see what actually made it online!
Happy New Year!
