We experienced unnecessary loss this year, and like so many others in the country (and World) our family said goodbye to loved ones too soon. Moving forward, and embracing a new year whole-heartedly, there are so many things I will never, ever take for granted again.
What gave me hope time and time again was my kids’ resilience in such unprecedented circumstances. They have adapted to life in a new form, with almost no complaint other than missing their friends.
The year did offer several surprises despite the obstacles we tackled. My husband who typically travels weekly for work has been home with us consistently, for almost a year, and we’ve gained invaluable time as a family.
Mostly we were forced to be creative in areas that we have never had to consider creativity before. Here are some of the highlights of this unprecedented year:
We were able to take a family vacation last February and create some priceless memories, not knowing that the world was about to shut down.
We were creative in celebrating birthdays and holidays.
We found ways to see our families, safely.
We spent lots of time at home, and lots of time outdoors.
We were able to navigate school from home, transition back to school, and now (for my oldest at least) back to home again.
The biggest take away for me personally this year is perspective, gratitude, living our lives more fully, and that family and love trumps all.
I am hopeful that as a society 2020 is a year we have all learned from, and that we will continue to take heed from this page in history moving forward. Would I relive this year if given the chance? Absolutely not. Has this year changed me as a person? Undoubtedly, yes.
I started this blog this past year as well, anticipating that I would have 3 kids in school this year and a few hours of alone time to devote to a personal project (I honestly cannot write this without laughing). It has not been given the attention I intended, but has certainly given me an outlet to share my thoughts, ideas, and projects with those who are interested in following along. I have learned to set better goals for myself, and since beginning this online venture I have made some great new friends and connections along the way.
If you are reading this, or have visited in the past year, thank you for being a part of this small new journey of mine!
Happy New year, and cheers to health and happiness for all! I hope, you too were able to grow, learn, and reflect from this latest trip around the sun.
xx,
Katie