As a general rule, I do not like to wish time away, but 2013 has been one roller coaster of a year. For the last month, I am ashamed to say that I have eagerly awaited the year’s end. 2013 handed me the loss of three loved ones and a surprise deployment. It has piled heartache upon heartache. There have been many moments when I have wondered whether I would ever feel “normal” again.
However, I would be remiss if I failed to mentioned all of the good from the past year. Although not necessarily for the reasons I would choose, I visited home much more often than I thought I would this year, considering how far away I live. As one of my cousins so eloquently noted on Facebook this morning, I was able to reconnect with family that I haven’t seen in a long time, some of whom I had never even met. The kids, the dog and I took the summer road trip of a lifetime. We made many wonderful memories, and we learned the value of home – wherever it happens to be. I finally began to make friends in North Dakota, and I was blessed with the best other-half-of-the-duplex neighbors I could have ever asked for – truly an answer to my prayers. I began a new adventure as a Disney travel planner – something I love and hope will grow in the future. And I am glad to be able to finish this year the way I started it – surrounded by family.
Although my heart aches for those who are not celebrating the year to come with me tonight, I am all the more thankful for those that remain and welcome the opportunities and blessings that 2014 will bring. For once, I am completely unconcerned with resolutions and goals. I want to make the most of the coming year, and it makes absolutely no difference whether I gain or lose 10 pounds, whether my house is kept cleaner and more organized, whether I read more books, or whether I tackle more Pinterest projects. In 2013, I was reminded how little control I have over my life and how fleeting time is. In 2014, I want to cherish those I love, to bless them, and to be blessed by them in return.
I hope you all have a blessed 2014 as well.
Snap. Eat. Run. 