Taking Stock

This is the last retrospective post. Why? I am ready to move forward, and not dwell any more. The past just keeps you locked - locked into labels, categories, fears.. etc.

Who I was is not who I will be. Who I am today is all that matters. It's here. It's now.

2010 brought a lot of life lessons, sprinkled with a little hardship, and topped off with clarity.

I picked my little battles and I stood firm in my beliefs. I loved a little deeper and learned more and more about compromise. I watched as my beautiful niece has grown. I saw triumph for both my sister and my husband, finding jobs that will give them some peace of mind. I talked my father through retirement. I witnessed my mother expand her artistic wings. I watched a few really good friends find their future mate, a few tied the knot, and  three became pregnant - one gave birth, one is in the hospital now, and one will have her blessing this summer.

Life just blows in.. and then it blows out.. we lost one of my relatives this year.

I made several new friends, or deepened my relationships with others. I spent hours reading YOUR blog posts, getting to know some really good people from all over the world, each sharing a little insight into their lives and in turn helping guide me through mine.

I traveled. I sat at home. I watched at least a 100 movies. I found new musical artists I would like to follow. I ate really good food. I took ball room dance lessons and Zumba and Body Jam.

I got a new camera, a new laptop, new bathroom decor. Some new clothes/jewelry and my beloved omelet maker.

Work went up up up (the amount and the happiness there.) My blog grew to have over 186 google followers, 246 facebook fans, 50+ blog frog followers, 200+ networked blog followers and on average - 4,000 page views a month from around the world. My volunteerism changed - I discontinued my work with the church, and am currently looking to expand my wings with the children of incarcerated families.

Unfortunately I did not learn to knit or sew or quilt. It is still on my list of things to do. My mother offered to get me a sewing machine for my birthday, and I shyly backed away... but I think - if she is reading this (and I know she reads my blogs) - I take it back.. I need to learn and I need one.

2011 sort of scares me. I know change - BIG change is coming. The unexpected is frightening. Especially for someone like me - so introspective and a bit of a tortured soul.

May all of our blessings be beautiful, our lessons gentle, and our paths clear of major obstacles.

May God bless you all - Happy New Year!

Song for the Day: