I know this is late, but I’m an extremely nostalgic person and need to document certain things. For several years, I have written a year-end review and even though it’s Feb. 3, 2018, I’m still going to share one for 2017.
Before writing this, I spent a half hour or so looking through my journals and pictures from last year. Here are my takeaways:
- I need to write. It’s in my DNA. Many journal entries begin with something along the lines of, “How has it been this long? I need to write more.” I was born with a need to write so that I remember, process, and capture the things I don’t say. At some point last year, I remember talking to Travis about what I want to do with my life and work. For a moment I hesitated on whether or not I am still a writer. To his credit he said something like, “If there is one thing that you always have to be it’s a writer.” I believe him.
- I care a lot more about making memories than things. This was evident in 2017. More than anything else, I would rather spend my time and money on people I love, trying new things, and seeing new places. And for better or worse (depending on who you ask), I take pictures of it all.
- No matter what changes in life – marriage, divorce, work, babies, distance – I will always try my best to keep in touch with friends. I will travel, I will invite them to visit, I will send emails, and birthday gifts, and cards, and ridiculous text messages. I will plan reunions and invite everyone over for breakfast if I’m in town. I will keep inside jokes alive. I believe in lifelong friendships.
- I am in love with the number 33 and this age and all this year is teaching me.
- One of my favorite quotes I heard last year is “I am not a mess but a deeply feeling person in a messy world,” by Glennon Doyle. I relate sooooo much. Suffering in my life and the world makes me cry, but it doesn’t mean I am broken.
- I crave truth and honesty in writing, in my family, in my friends, in myself. I mean the kind of honesty that reveals vulnerability and sheds light on the things we all feel, but have a hard time sharing. I crave the moments when the invisible armor we wear each day is left on the floor and we get to be ourselves. I believe when we share fears, and tears, and belly laughs we create a more connected world.
- Gossip doesn’t have to exist between women. I want to write more about this someday, but it was something I discovered at a work conference that has stayed with me. It’s possible for women with entirely different personalities, ages, backgrounds, and interests to come together and discuss the past, future, big ideas, insecurities and dreams – like really get to know each other – and not gossip about each other afterward. It’s sad that this felt rare to me, but it also felt very exciting and hopeful. I have drowned in gossip many times and it’s something I’m fiercely working on. Women – and people in general – are stronger when we build each other up.
- And lastly, I have the best family, friends, husband, doggie, and kitty for me. The end.