- A neighbor crashed his car into my car while it was parked in my driveway
- A con man posing as a landscaper stole nearly $1,000 from me
- On-going health issues with BMG led to two long hospitalizations and one surgery
- The Downton Abbey series ended on PBS
- "He Who Must Not Be Named" was elected president of the U.S. in a weak victory in November
- A dear friend was raped and murdered by an apparent stranger on Christmas day
Reflecting on this list, I can see why I'm feeling so vulnerable today. Many of these experiences are big. And largely out of my control. Ugh.
I want 2017 to be a hopeful year, a year that offers life-affirming adventures, So, I also want to look at the bright spots from 2016, to see where I can draw power. These include:
- Losing (and keeping off) nearly 25 pounds through hard work, a healthier diet, and a new found commitment to exercising
- Learning I have only an ulcer, and not heart disease or stomach cancer
- Being reminded of how great my community is when a retired neighbor took pity on me after the landscaper con and helped me finish a major gardening job
- Purchasing a kayak rack after six years of kayak ownership, finally widening my boating circle exponentially
- Taking a BMG-free trip to DC in October to visit with family and to be reunited with two dear college friends
- Receiving multiple forms of recognition at work for excellence on the job, including be nominated and accepted into a regional women's leadership program
Analyzing this list I see that my power lies in making life affirming choices, working hard, and connecting with the positive people around me.
Tonight, as I raise my flute of champagne in honor of the earth finishing another trip around the sun, I'll be wishing for another year of adventures, made possible with the strength I find from within, and from the people who help make my life complete.
Welcome 2017!
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