2014

I’m sitting down at my desk in semi-silence for the first time in weeks.  December November 2013 was a bit of a whirlwind.  I’m not sure I’ve ever felt a year slip by so quickly.  You know what they say, though. (“They” being people older and wiser than myself.) Every year moves more quickly than the last.  The thought frightens me.  Sometimes, it feels too fast.  Sometimes, I want to rush it and to find out “what’s next”. . .

A New Year.  For so many of us it begs the question. . . “what’s next?”  Or what will be?  Or what can be.  Or what should be?  The first day of the year is much like cracking open a brand new journal.  Blank pages just waiting for stories to unfold.  There is momentum and expectation that happens few other times during the year.  Last year I wrote this. . .

I anticipate change ahead.  I expect some stretching.  I foresee opportunities for growth.  And while I don’t know all the details and there is no map to follow, I’m quite sure that the details don’t really matter.  In essence, to 2013, I can say this. . . I’m ready.

When I look at those words, “I’m ready”, I smile because really. . .was I ready?  If you would have told me 365 days ago that in a year I’d be living in a red house on a hill with a different career and three babies who are no longer babies but little people, I would have hidden under my bed and never come out.  If you would have told me that in 2013 I would face some major giants and make some big mistakes I would have found a way to script my life to avoid certain events.  If I would have seen the script ahead of time, I certainly would have found a way to rewrite it.

What a shame that would have been.

As I look toward 2014, I know the journey of stretching, growing, and learning will continue.  I know there will be hills and valleys and highs and lows.  The new year fills me with anticipation and leaves me believing that anything is possible.  My heart beats faster as I think about who our family will be after another year of growth. 

I can’t look ahead though, without paying my respects to 2013.  Some of my favorite moments. . .

Looking back fills my heart with gratitude.  It overwhelms me with awareness of the immense blessing I have to do life with these four people.

Was 2013 perfect?  Of course not.
Was it beautiful?  Absolutely.

I am so excited to see what 2014 brings.  I may not know the script and I may not be able to write completely, but to 2014 I say this. . . I’m open.Wishing each and every one of you a very Happy New Year and all the best for 2014.