My Personal Review of 2015
I am taking the next couple of weeks off, so this will be my last blog of the year. Hard to believe that only two weeks remain of 2015. So what are my final thoughts about this year?
My husband, Scott, and I on a recent trip to San Francisco.
There’s a certain irony that after starting a blog called Baby Boomer Bliss, I had the worst year so far in my life. On the other hand, that doesn’t mean that every day was terrible.
That’s the thing, when things aren’t going according to plan, we encounter challenges, or even when we suffer from tragic events, we cannot afford to squander priceless moments of our lives. We simply don’t have the luxury to spend what little time we have on earth worried about the future or stuck in the past.
For example, this last weekend, my husband, two sons, and daughter-in-law enjoyed a quick but delightful getaway to Monterey and San Francisco. The beauty of these two places with all the breathtaking views, dramatic coastline, and pristine forests along with the terrific company made this a trip to remember.
Our family also enjoyed a fabulous vacation together camping in Sequoia and Yosemite this last summer with many treasured moments.
Our family in Yosemite this past summer.
Along with these cherished memories, there are certainly important things I’ve learned this year that I wouldn’t have otherwise appreciated as fully.
I learned that with God’s help, I am stronger than I thought. Losing my mother and mother-in-law helped me understand that you cannot put off until tomorrow what you need and want to do today – tomorrow is not guaranteed. It’s given me perspective as to what’s important in my life and what is trivial.
As I’ve pulled closer to my family through the stressful events this year, my love has grown deeper for my loved ones. After 37 years of marriage, I was reminded that my husband and biggest supporter rocks! I am so fortunate that my children – including my youngest son’s wife — are also my best friends. My older son’s divorce and custody battle was awful beyond words but drew my son and I closer than ever and made me even more grateful for my grandchildren and the precious time I have with them. This year also made me thankful for all the love and kindness shown by friends and members of my congregation.
In memory of my Mom who died in June. Our family has enjoyed sailing for more than 30 years – Mom loved it too. People at the dock admired her for walking down the plank to get on the boat with her walker.
Caregiving for my mother who had Lewy Body dementia full-time before her death has given me a new-found appreciation and empathy for all of you out there who are in the same boat. Losing my mother drew me closer to my father and siblings. It also helped me learn the importance of consoling others who have lost loved ones through this most difficult time.
While I wouldn’t want to repeat this year, as hard as it was, I wouldn’t want to trade it away either.
However, I am at heart an optimist, and am hopeful that 2016 will be a year for fresh beginnings and a time to refocus and recharge after a challenging year.
I hope the same for all of you. A big thank-you to the 13,000 people who have visited my blog and a big hug to those of you who took the time to leave wonderful comments that always make my day.
See you next year!
Wow, what a year, indeed, Julie! So impressed with your buoyant spirit and positive outlook. I enjoyed following you in 2015 and look forward to more awesome posts to come next year. Enjoy your well-deserved down time!
Cat, you have been one of my blessings this past year. Thanks for all the support you give us fellow bloggers! Enjoy your trip to Pennsylvania as well.
Very encouraging words Julie. I agree I wouldn’t change going through difficult things in my life because I made it through them and I am the person I am today because of them and I know I made through them. Enjoying reading you thoughts. Gives me lots think about.
Jen, thanks so much for your insightful comment. It is very true – we are who we are because of all the challenges and difficult things we endure and overcome in life. Glad you enjoyed the blog!
Julie, it’s amazing how something good comes out of something bad. After all the death and sadness I experienced several years ago the good that I experienced was a renewed relationship with Jehovah. He was always there by my side but I never realized it until the dust settled.
I have enjoyed all of your blogs and I hope you enjoy your hiatus. A happier New Year to you and your family. With Love, Cindy
Cindy, you have certainly endured more than most people I know. A stronger relationship with Jehovah is one of the blessings I also experienced during this difficult time. God indeed gives us “power beyond what is normal.” I could not gotten through this year without help from above. Thanks for your kind thoughts and I pray this next year your renewed relationship with Jehovah continues to grow – it is true, He is by our side always even though we may not fully feel it at the time – and you receive many blessings. I send lots of love back at you!
Thank you for sharing the precious and challenging time in your life, Julie. Your optimism and wisdom shine through and you are blessed with a beautiful and loving family! I am confident that 2016 will be one of your best years!
Thanks for stopping by Millen and all your kind words. You made me feel even more optimistic about 2016!
Julie, you have such a positive attitude. I’m sure that was instrumental in pulling your family closer in such tough times. Too often families fracture with the stress. Thanks you for sharing your lessons and reminders of what’s truly important in life. Wishing you a wonderful, joyous 2016. You’ve earned it!
Aaaw – I feel so much better after all the thoughtful, loving, and kind comments people have left for me. Thanks so much, Diane. I hope next year brings you many blessings as well.