My mother used to warn me that the older you get, the faster time goes by. I’m not sure if there was a truer lesson she imparted to me. 2022 sped by and here we are about to usher in another New Year.
As I sit here reflecting — I’m luke warm about 2022. There were highs and some lows, but nothing stands out as over the top. I worked hard, I got some travel in, saw some great friends, marked another anniversary with my sweet man, and moved through the year.
My intention for 2022 was the word REST. I’d score myself about a 6 on implementing it in reality. And for me a six is more like a 10 for others. I rested more often, said no to some fun offers to do things, I spent a whole lot more time with Jesus this year. I shopped less, I didn’t take on a ton of projects, and I spent more focused time in the Word. And I’ve ended the year on a sabbatical.
I left my job at Bristow in mid-December as my favorite boss changed companies and asked me to join her in the endeavor. I am slated to start the new gig on January 17. In the meantime I am off. It’s a strange feeling, not having emails pour in that need my attention, not having any responsibility to a work-project. Some days I’ve loved it, some days it makes me nervous, like I’m missing something I should be doing. I am trying to make the best of my time off and not fill every minute with doing.
There are some projects I have had in mind that I am now getting to — finishing my master bedroom and bath — 5 years in the house, our bathroom still isn’t painted. I started a wallpaper project yesterday that I’ll finish over the next few days — so far I’m in love…
Wallpaper is as tedious as I remember, but still makes me feel close to my dad when I hang it.
Though I’m looking forward to 2023 and all the promise it holds — promises I don’t even know about yet, I am not wishing 2022 to close. 2022 marks our fifth year living here and I feel like we are now in a good groove. Friends we made upon our arrival have strengthened and deepened, I know how to get around without GPS for the most part. We are settled in our home, in our lives, in a routine. 2022 has been a year of comfort. And comfort has been a restful place to be.
My hope for 2023 is more of the same. My intention for 2023 is “BALANCE” – I tend to go head strong into things and then fizzle. I am going to build on what I learned through resting and stretch things out a bit. Like writing.
I have joined the Flourish Writer’s Academy once again — a group that supports writers in goal setting and achieving those goals. I have a book inside of me – but books take time. This year I’m ready to dedicate the time and see it through. More to come on that later.
Overall, I am thankful for 2022, for my health, for my friendships, for God’s hand in my life. I am looking forward to what He has in store for me in the year ahead.
Wishing everyone a safe and happy New Year’s Eve.
Shrinking Shay 