Thursday, January 3, 2019

The New Year Starts Well

2019

What's New, 2019

My word for last year was "structure."  2018 ended up being anything but structured. I had high hopes of finishing my various writing projects. Nada. I did get a couple new manuscripts completed though not fully edited. But I did learn something. I learned to go with the flow.

This year? Not so sure. I'm considering a couple of words but not settled on either one. I have one New Year's Resolution, though.  I will keep it to myself for the time being. It's a spiritual discipline, which I intend to be vigilant in keeping regardless of circumstances, Lord willing.

I want to enjoy 2019. I choose to be on the happy side. I 'will' myself to be positive in spirit. The rest will take care of itself. With a cheerful attitude and a 'giving' mindset, and with God's intervention and enabling, it's going to be a good year. 

 

2018, Year in Review

One big positive happened in 2018. I lost 20# last year. I am going for another 20# in 2019. Starting to wear some of the clothing I wore as a teacher back in 2012. Becoming less active physically as a writer was not good for me. I was ignoring my overall physical health.

Changes were needed. Health improvement and its maintenance are becoming a priority with me. It feels pretty nice to be losing weight instead of gaining it.

We also lost Mom. She is with her heavenly family now. I especially missed her during the holidays. I was sensitive to her missing presence as I cooked and prepared the dishes and decor. My mother was at her happiest when entertaining family. I'm glad she is now at peace. Rest In Peace, dear Mama.

Northern California's fires made for suffering and loss. I drove in the dark cloud of ash that day. It was scary around here. In 2018, national crises were playing out as they did, which also caused pain and unpleasantness. The good that came in response was from people helping each other, 'The Helpers' as Mr. Rogers liked to call them. Kind and resilent, we overcame and went forth.

 

And Now What?

I like fresh starts and new beginnings. The beginning of a new year is all that. These days I'm helping my dad a fair amount. I call myself Dad's Personal Assistant. This role keeps me in balance and not so self-focused.

In addition, my friends and I drink a lot of coffee while having one-on-one conversations at one of our homes, or New Earth Market, Starbucks, Maple Garden. I'm thankful they want to meet with me. Our conversations are meaty. Sharing our hearts with each other brings out the best in us.

 

Life is Good. 

You all are wonderful. Thanks for reading my blog. I hope you are well. I can't complain. Now, on to more to be discovered. I'm ready.


How about you?