As I’m writing this, there’s only a few more hours left in 2018. As the new year has gotten closer, I’ve been reflecting on some of the things that have happened this year. It’s been a mixed bag for sure but I’d like to think that 2018 was better than 2017, and in many ways it was.

There have been moments of heartache and loss as we’ve said goodbye to loved ones who’ve passed on. A few hours ago, I got off the phone with my mother, who informed me that hospice has been called in for my grandfather. He’s been living with my parents for awhile now and we’ve known this moment was coming but I’m not ready, not that anyone ever is. 😔

We’ve had several major health scares within our family this year but everyone’s okay. There has been huge financial setbacks but we’ve managed to keep afloat.

There have been ups and downs, throughout the year. There’s been challenges and accomplishments as well. We’re grateful for the ups and we’ve survived the downs. We’ve risen to each challenge and take pride in our accomplishments.

2018 saw me turn 40, lose 42 lbs, walk 80+ miles a month, heal my body from years of neglect and return to the dentist after 20 years. Those are major accomplishments for me and I’m proud of each and every one of them. I struggled with my depression as well but I never gave up.

I know 2019 will bare witness to many things, some I’m aware of and others I’ll discover along the way. All I know for sure is that as a family, we will rise to whatever challenges are before us and overcome any obstacles in our way.

I want to thank all my readers for investing their time in our journey. I appreciate each of you and I wish you all the very best in this new year.

Happy New Year.