2017: Grow

 

Happy New Year!

Once again, I marvel at how quickly the years pass, and quite honestly, I’m approaching 2017 with a mix of excitement and trepidation.  Excitement, as I have plans for my blog and business, and trepidation, as my oldest graduates from high school in a matter of months and will be leaving to go to college in the fall.  My bubble of denial is going to burst soon, and while I’m trying to prepare myself for what’s to come, it’s damn difficult, as all major milestones with your oldest child seem to be.  Don’t get me wrong, I’m really excited for what lies ahead for him.  College is such a great stage in life, where your responsibility is primarily to yourself and your schoolwork.  No work or family responsibilities yet, and it’s certainly a time that you don’t fully appreciate until it’s over.  So, while I don’t usually get too personal, I may not be able to contain myself this year, and I hope you’ll bear with me.

I have some things in the works right now that I’m not quite ready to share, but I promise I’ll spill the beans when the time is right.  In the meantime, I’m going to jump on the bandwagon with a word of the year that’s been swirling around in my head, and seems fitting for this year – personally, professionally, and as a family.  Grow.

I’m looking at this from a few different angles.  I’m looking to grow in a variety of ways.  In a literal sense, growing my business.  But also in the experiences that I have, the places I go, the things that I learn and do.  From trying new painting techniques, continuing to read, traveling, seeing and doing new things.  While also taking chances, and stepping outside of my comfort zone, in all aspects of life.

Growing also applies to all of the changes that will be taking place this year as a family.  With our oldest going to college, the entire family dynamic will change.  He’s the peacemaker among the three kids.  The one who has great relationships with both his brother and his sister.  He will be stepping into a new phase in life, and hopefully doing a lot of growing as well.  Either way, that change is going to require growth from all of us, as a family.  

Given that I’m not typically a big fan of change, there’s going to be a whole lot of growing going on here this year…

 

So, while there are exciting things on the horizon for 2017, I can safely say, it’s going to be a bittersweet year at the same time.  And lucky you, will get a front row seat to all of it. 😉  Here’s to a new year, a year filled with new experiences, whether they’re enjoyable or difficult, let us learn and grow as a result.

What are your plans for 2017?  Do you have a “word” for the year?  What is it?

Thanks for reading and for your support.

Jenny