Positive Notes

As this year draws to a close, I can’t help but feel relief.

Some of you had a great 2014.  I get that.  I am genuinely happy for you.

Some of us had a 2014 that….left a lot to be desired.

To be honest, this year was heartbreaking with joyous moments filled in the cracks. 

And it would be really easy for me to get down on this year.  But leaving the year with negativity is not how I want it to end.

I’d rather end this year with a spirit of gratitude.  Gratitude for those people and moments that have helped me get through.

So for the next two days, let’s focus on that.  Let’s focus on the positive from 2014.

Today, I would like to share a bit about some special people from this year.

· My family rallied like no other.  Those two weeks in August were obviously the worst of my life.  I am grateful for the people I spent them with.  I can’t describe the exhaustion we all felt.  It seemed that when one of us was fading, another would carry this burden.  I am grateful that I didn’t have to experience those dark days of August alone.  And on that note, when I found out the news about my mom, the news that it was time to say goodbye, I am so grateful that Sister Runner just happened to be visiting.  I hope she gets a real vacation in 2015.

· While I thought I had a challenging year, Sewer Sister had way more obstacles.  I am so grateful that she is healthy.  And I am grateful that her children did such a good job taking care of her.

· My brave dad is daring to continue his dream.  He is teaching me that life must go on, even when we don’t know how. 

· Billy is steady and strong and keeps the balance in this house.  He keeps his opinions of my crazy trauma to himself, or at least voices them when I am out of earshot.  He carries the burdens when they get too heavy.

· My beautiful girls have handled so much change this year with grace and positivity.  They are quick to give a hug when they sense I am feeling down.  And they are always up for a marathon of Doctor Who. 

· When we were in between houses, Billy’s parents took us in.  Even our ridiculous animals.  They always made us feel welcome.  I still miss happy hour with his mom. 

· I am grateful for old friends.  Friends that provided kind words during hard times. 

· I am blessed to have coworkers that I consider friends.  They were there in those first weeks of my mom’s diagnosis, to picking up the slack when I had to disappear in August, and have been understanding of my trauma since I got back.  Their prayers, good thoughts and words of encouragement have helped me regain my confidence as a professional helper.

· When Billy and I moved this summer, we knew the location was amazing.  I had no idea that the neighbors could match.  We have had bonfires, parties and just everyday fun that I have so desperately needed. 

These people have helped me through 2014.  I suppose that’s when you understand how important people are to you.  When they help you carry on during those dark moments.

I want to say to all of you, thank you.  Thank you so much.  Thank you for bringing humor back into my life.  Thank you for giving me hope in the darkness.  Thank you for being part of my life.