Auld Lang Syne - Times Gone By

It's early afternoon on Friday, December 28th and I've enjoyed a leisurely laid-back morning with my parents.  My sister is back at work in Detroit; my oldest niece left yesterday for Holiday Youth Convention; and my youngest niece is with her Dad.  Yes, there's many things I could be doing but sitting and drinking coffee while watching a movie is what I chose to do.  Mom and Dad are up and going about their day but I decided to pause and reflect on 2012.  I remember ringing this new year in with friends in Washington DC and I had such expectations and promises of where the year would go. Well, suffice it to say, there were several sharp curves in my road that caused me to change direction numerous times this year.  What does one do when that happens?  You stop - take a day or two to refocus and get back on track and then you see where the road takes you next.  I think the biggest adjustment in my life this year was the passing of my grandmother.  For two years, my life centered around her....I kept instructing fitness classes but did not work a full time job so I could spend time with Grandma every day at the nursing home.  It was on a Thursday evening in July that she took her final breath and we said our goodbyes to her.  So, once again, I am having to stop, refocus, and decide where the next part of my road will take me.  Life is all about moving forward - putting one foot in front of the other and giving 100% in the moment.  It's about making choices every moment - choices that keep us going towards our goals, our dreams, our aspirations.  It's having a plan but being able to make adjustments to the plan when life calls for the adjustments.  There have been many tears this year but also been many laughs.  I also am able to look back on bittersweet memories - ones that cause me to smile but also cause me to have tears.  The times gone by this year have also made me realize that I am worth my dreams, my hopes, and my goals.  Too many times I am willing to put them on hold and focus on someone else's wants, goals, and needs - which is okay to do but not at my own expense.  Life is about continually learning, growing, and being.  Just when I think I've learned my most valuable life lesson....another opportunity presents itself with an even bigger life lesson to learn.  I'm thankful for the hands of my trusty friends that hold mine during times of fear, grief, sadness, and doubt.  During the times gone by of 2012, I've had many moments where my heart has been overwhelmed by the kindness, thoughtfulness, and love of friends and family.  If one is rich in love, family, and friendship, one doesn't need much else.  Will I be sad to see 2012 leave? Not really.....I'm looking forward to a new year of blank months and days in which I get to write new things. I'm excited about the new opportunities - the new roads - the endless possibilities.  However, I will bring the old acquaintances to mind and remember times gone by. Happy New Year to you and yours - to all our days.....