Happy New Year!

I have a feeling that 2013 is going to be a great year, for me and my family.  We love living in Boston.  I like my job and love Northeastern University.  RT loves his school.  Roger loves his job.  Elise seems to enjoy her job.  Mom and Dad are nearly done with their house.  Nikki likes her promotion.  Jon seems happy.  Auntie Karen as become Grandma.  Harvey is a Dad.  Life just seems good all around.

I learned a lot in 2012, about myself and people in general.  I feel more content with myself and my roles as Mom, wife and IRB Coordinator.  I have learned to deal with those things that I would rather not ever deal with.  I have found my voice.  I have let go of anger.  I have looked to myself when things aren't ideal.  I have found that I have the power to be joyful or not.  I have chosen a joyful life.

I have learned that there is a lot of pressure to be the best Mom, pressure nobody can possibly look up to.  I have learned not to judge the choices of others regarding parenting.  I have learned to let Roger be the awesome Dad that he is.  I have confirmed that respecting my child, at any age, is important for a strong and loving bond.  RT is thriving and I am partially responsible for that!

I have learned that food is not the answer to my ailments.  I have learned that television, though wonderful, should not take the place of reading books.  I have learned that salad is okay every day.  I have learned that clean litter boxes make for happy kitties.  I have confirmed that I have the best kind of friends all over the country.  My in-laws are loving, kind and fun.  My family is generous, kind, funny and loving...and a lot of fun!  At 41, I have grown up.  I can deal with those unfun things in life.  I can accept people as they are.  I may not like everyone, but I can respect their roles in my life. 

I have learned that the definition of family is fluid and that is awesome!  I have learned that I can survive (for a few days at least) as a single parent.  I have gained even MORE respect for all those single parents out their.  I have seen families struck my disaster and horror come together in love.  I have seen people stop whining, put on their grown-up panties, and get things done!  I have seen so many things that solidify my hope in the human race.

I have been proud of my fellow citizens (most of them, anyway).  I've seen people win graciously, and even more importantly, I have seen some lose equally graciously.  I have learned to enjoy watching the Vikings and hoping they will win.  I have learned that it is all about the fans on whether or not I like a team.  I still don't like the Patriots...  My love for baseball is renewed, even with terrible teams.  I still find that teamwork is the most important component of a winner.

I look forward to a new year full of more wonder and adventure.  I don't make resolutions, but I have made some personal goals for myself.  It's a brand new year...I imagine a year of new possibilities!

Happy New Year to everyone!  I hope 2013 brings the best for all of us!!