2021 Wrap-Up

I think I found the balance required to keep me grouded through the holidays. Tiny trees tucked in a back corner with simple ornaments and white lights were permitted to remain up past Christmas for the first time ever. Being out of town those days likely helped them survive through the thirtieth this year but I actually appreciated the glow from an otherwise dark corner. Adding only one nice gift per kid and the entire season was finally manageable. By contrast, pops of yellow and light are welcomed. And as a side note,  I was able to gently slide the fully decorated trees into the attic with Kate's assistance so next Christmas looks promising too.

We filled in fifty-two weeks worth of cards for our Tell Me Something Good jar and looking through those this new year's eve is a gift. 2021 was not a great year. We were stretched and challenged in so many areas. We suffered tremendous loss and deep pain. We endured life changes and overcame significant obstacles. But no matter how tough the season or circumstances,  we found something all fifty-two weeks worth noting. That's not nothing. This started as an exercise in combating the worst year ever mantra that verberated through all platforms a year ago and I am grateful we entered January committed to finding the good in our corner of the world. In looking for the light, we never became Pollyanna but we were certain to not miss the joy that simultaneously lived in the same space as pain. 2021 will be kept for future reading and new cardstock is prepared for 2022. 

Maggie Smith once again spoke to my heart.

We weren't quite home from Georgia Wednesday when Lauren called. Taylor lost his sweet grandma to covid. So our New Year will start with a little more energy than originally anticipated with the addition of two dogs and their little family as they drive into town today for a funeral next week. We love the time together even if circumstances are not pleasant.