I resolve to write more. This blog is a start.
Usually I would be making the typical resolution to exercise and eat better, but for the first time I can remember, I'm already doing that. So much in my life already seems healthier and happier. So I resolve to continue to make positive choices.
There have recently been many changes for my children. We are all adjusting to being together only half the time, and it is challenging for them to go back and forth between households and deal with the reality of divorce. But we are getting through it, day by day. I truly appreciate the time that we have together. I resolve to spend quality time with my boys. I will listen to them, limit their time with electronics, and do more outdoor activities together- even if they would rather play Minecraft than go to the park. This year we will overcome our challenges.
I am grateful for the many people who have been an incredible support during a difficult year. Friends, coworkers, and even random nice strangers all contribute to make each day more pleasant, happy, and sometimes even very special. I realize how lucky I am and resolve to express my appreciation.
Books have always been a support in my life. At the end of the year I always regret that I didn't read more, and resolve to read more the next year. I am grateful for the many good books that enriched my life in 2011. These ten were particularly meaningful:
Blindsided by Priscilla Cummings
Told from the perspective of a 14-year-old who is going blind. Now that's a life change.
Deadline by Chris Crutcher
An 18-year-old lives his last year of high school to the fullest, keeping the fact that he is dying a secret until the very end.
Doggirl by Robin Brande
A shy girl thinks that all she needs in her life are her parents and her dogs, until she volunteers her trained pets for the high school drama production and learns the value of friendship.
Everybody Sees the Ants by A.S. King
An incredible book about bullying, family and finding yourself.
Into the Parallel by Robin Brande
A teenage scientist meets her alternate self in a parallel universe!
OyMG by Amy Fellner Dominy
A Jewish main character overcomes challenges and guilt to learn the importance of being yourself.
Reincarnation by Suzanne Weyn
I am fascinated by the idea of past lives, learning lessons in this life for the next, and knowing people throughout different lives. This novel follows four people through centuries of lives as they learn and grow.
The Running Dream by Wendelin Van Draanen
A high school runner loses her leg. An inspirational story about overcoming tragedy; friendship; team work; service to others; and getting to know people for who they are inside.
This I Believe 2 edited by Jay Allison
A collection of inspiring and moving essays.
Three Little Words by Ashley Rhodes-Courter
An inspirational memoir written by a teenager who went through the foster system.
Zero by Tom Leveen
I really connected with the main character's challenging family life and how she overcame it.
Each of these books is about overcoming obstacles.
The lesson I learned from my life this past year is the same lesson I have learned from books. Even when life seems dire, it gets better. The ending is not always what you expected, or neat and pretty, but there is always hope.
Here's hoping for a phenomenal 2012.
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| In 2012 I resolve to keep the cats away from my coffee. |
