2013

Good-bye is not forever.

Every piece of our history molds us; every action, every decision, every spoken word becomes a part of our future.  This is why I can not say good-bye to 2013.  Please understand, there are many components of 2013 I would love to forget.  I had my fair share of devastation, sadness, struggles, loss of loved ones, things I said, mistakes I made…  However, there were just as many celebrations. 

Each one of us is “Running our own Life”. 

Take chances – it may change your life.  Believe – every thing happens for a reason.  
Life is short – love the people who treat you right and pay no mind to those who do not.  
Exercise – it is a key ingredient of life.  
Dance – by yourself, with a loved one, with your kids, with your grand kids, just dance.

2014 is going to be an amazing year.  My New Year’s resolution stays the same and is three-fold: Learn, Travel & Experience.  Each year I vow to learn something new, travel to a place I have never been, and experience something wonderful.  When I reflect back on the previous years, I am humbled at the levels this resolution always takes me. 

Here are my highlights from 2013.

·        I participated in 8 running events and joined a running club – fun events with friends and family, virtual events with people I have never met, and my first time achievement of an Ultra Marathon.

·        Our grandsons, Jacob and Jaxon, spent over a month with us this fall – precious memories were made.

·        I traveled to Germany and had my first vacation with my daughters as young adults – they are FUN, ADVENTUROUS, BEAUTIFUL girls.

·        My son-in-law returned safely from his deployment to Afghanistan – each deployment is just as difficult as the last and I spend every day praying for his safety and return.

·        We attended our first NASCAR race – as a non-NASCAR fan I thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

·        I traveled to Asheville, NC where I found yet another hidden treasure of our beautiful United States.

·        We added Layla to our family – a sweet, fast growing, a little stubborn at times, Daniff puppy.

·        I took the opportunity to speak and educate the importance of planned giving & board development for the Association of Healthcare Philanthropy and Association of Montana Healthcare Providers conferences.

·        I spent the spring semester teaching online for Bismarck state college – my 4^th year.  I believe the students have taught me just as much, if not more, then I have taught them.

·        I learned to drive a Skid-steer.  Now if I can just talk him into letting me play with it as much as I want – Oh, the landscaping projects I could start!!

Happy New Year friends!  May this coming year be filled with laughter, love and Blessing for all of you.