I cannot believe another year has come and gone, and I cannot believe where I am today and the perspective from which I write today.  There is no way to predict the future and, if it was even possible, I am not sure I would want to.  This has been, relatively speaking, an amazing year.

This morning I awoke extra early to watch the last sunrise of 2008.  It was magnificent.  The sky was clear and the leafless trees in the backyard allowed me an unobstructed view of the dark orange sun that slowly rose to surround me with daylight.  It was somewhat emotional, standing on the back deck, taking into consideration how this morning I am in a much different situation (personally and professionally) than this time last year.  Would I have expected these changes, twists, and turns life presented to me?  No way…maybe my transition back to education as I had been thinking about that for a long time, but no other.

But am I a better person today?  Of course – I have been able to learn and grow from the many different experiences and opportunities this year presented to me.  I have faced physical challenges (2 and 1/2 marathons) and tried things I never thought I would (skydiving!).  I shared with friends the joys of a newborn child (J and N, N and F, C and J).  I advanced myself professionally (new job) and personally (weight loss).

I have grown more secure in who I am through the experiences of loss and separation.  I have found friends in places I never thought I would go and reached beyond my comfort level to challenge my skills and talents (chorus).

Yes, it was a good year.  I look forward to more sunrises and sunsets.  I look forward to meeting new friends, strengthening the friendships I have made, and becoming a better person this coming year.

Thank you all who have supported and encouraged me this year and have become such an important part of my support system and my life.  To all of my international friends who stay in contact with me and visit this blog often, those of you in countries all around the world, I thank you for the cultural exchange you have afforded me.  With just one trip a few years ago, dozens of friendships have developed.  Thank you for everything.

To one and all, I wish you a Happy New Year!