It's time to say Goodbye!

I have been thinking a lot about the year 2014 over the last few days. I'm frankly surprised at how quickly the year flew by – which is a blessing in itself! 

Truthfully, I’m not sorry to see this year end. There have been some event this year that I’m happy to put to rest and forget. It can get easy to focus on the negative things that have happened. To become a victim to your own circumstances, but I’m going to do my best to get back up, brush off the dirt, and move forward! (That was my cheesy motivational cheer!)

I do want to focus on some of the most wonderful highlights of the year! After all, if you can’t find anything to celebrate, you’re truly in a bad state of affairs.

In the spring I was able to go with my Author friend, Jennifer Shaw Wolf and go on a book tour to St. Anthony, Idaho. We had a fabulous time and met some great students. But the best part for me was being able to find my ancestors at a nearby cemetery. My great-grandmother, Fanny Francis Fawson Hunter has become one of my greatest examples. The more I learn about her, the more I love her! I was able to find her! I found her grave site and was able to pay my respects. It was such a neat experience.

  This summer was crazy busy! Crazy with all the events happening right around the same time! Summer camps, Family reunions, and ending with a trip to see more family. Whew! The time went quickly but the memories that were made are priceless! I have always felt that time with family is never a waste. I love being around my nieces and nephews and find joy in watching my children play with cousins. That’s what it’s all about for me – building relationships to last forever!

Although we ended the year on a sour note with Wade’s career, I do have to express my gratitude for the job he had throughout the year. He worked with some amazing people – people who fought for him, even when corporate had “cut backs” and Wade was on the chopping block. This group of people immediately went to work sending job notices and well wishes and have been wonderful through this process. And we are going to be okay. There’s no point in freaking out or being angry. My emotional tantrum wouldn't have changed the outcome of corporate decision. We just started over.

It’s hard to believe that I have a senior in the house! I am not old enough to have an adult child! How did this happen? As I have watched Kaydin grow and mature, it has been an honor to be his mother. He still has to finish out the school year but then he is on to bigger things! This year has been constant reminders from him, saying things like “This is the last time I’ll…” Christmas was especially hard. I kept thinking that this time next year, he won’t be here to share in the joy of the season. He will be off serving a mission for our church.

As far as my career goals, I've had some fun advancements happen! My second short story, Faelad, was published in another Xchyler Publishing anthology. It was a lot of fun to write this story! It is based in Ireland and I got to tell tales of places that I've actually been to. It was a great experience!

I also joined the staff at Xchyler Publishing and came on as a Graphic Design Coordinator. I get to create cool ads and other media for the company and I have learned so much and enjoy it thoroughly!  I get to work with some fun people and we have a great time!

After reading this it looks like the year was anything but successful – and you’re right! It was a great big, fun-filled, exciting year. The negative things going on are minute compared to the wonderful blessings of family and friends! So even though I was ready to kiss this year goodbye, I will consider it a good one.

I hope you too can reflect on the many positive things that have happened in your life and will take note of the things that bring you joy!

Happy New Year! 2014 is “Done an Dusted!”