Dream Big

Another year is over and a new one has begun. They seem to be stacking up at a disquieting pace, but I am grateful for each experience I have been give to learn, to grow, and to appreciate. The new year brings a fresh opportunity to dream anew. A fresh slate presents itself and for at least one day, the future is limited only by our imagination.

2009 started out with a lot of unanswered questions, uncertainty, worry. I will always remember the look that passed between Kim and Shelly as they kissed each other at the beginning of that New Year. No tears were shed, no words spoken, but every fear, doubt, and especially hope was expressed in their eyes and bearing within the space of those few seconds. It broke my heart to glimpse that incredibly private moment, yet I feel so blessed to have witnessed it.

Then so much happened so quickly in the following precious weeks to bring their story to temporary fruition, that it was difficult to grasp. You wonder how the world can possibly continue with such a loss. But thankfully, life will only be put on hold for a few impatient moments. Life goes on, and by default, we are carried along with the tide, and our families gives us new purpose, new reasons to dream.

Jason was given a new lease on life and a boost in confidence to start out 2010. After a terrifying experience with his defibrilator, he had surgery to replace the defective leads and ended up with a whole new unit. Now he can have confidence that his heart will be strong and work well. He can continue to support his family and know that he has the strength to enjoy his life and to dream big for his family.
Shane started out 2009 unemployed. Then followed 6 months of uncertainty, disappointment, frustration. It's disheartening to foster a hope just to see that hope fail to materialize. But out of that disappointment came the knowledge that he was ready to pursue a different path. He had the courage to follow that path to a new opportunity, to find a way to realize his dreams for his family.
Last year Wes was in New Zealand and Kim was sitting at that end of the table. It's good to have Wes back. He breathes new life into our family as we watch him resume his life. He's an interesting and outgoing guy who has never limited his dreams. It will be interesting to see where his dreams will take him between now and next New Years eve. Shaylyn and Kevin's life took a unexpected turnabout as well. They switched places when Kevin became unemployed. He is a stay-at-home Dad and Shaylyn now shares her many talents as a 4th grade teacher. Didn't see that one coming, but I am so grateful that she was prepared with an education. They are making it work and their dreams are thriving despite the change. Jamie and Lynn had an adorable little girl named Macie Jo in December. I can't wait for her to get big enough to join our little band of cousins. Kennedy has a trick or two to show her!

We spent a lot of time together as a family this year. We grew more precious to each other. We learned we could survive some tough situations like Kim's illness and death, Randy's broken back, unemployment, employment uncertainty, health issues and still continue to thrive. This new year starts with unanswered questions, uncertainty and worry, but come what may, we will face it together. Happy New Year family! May all your dreams come true!