2012 was a year of life at its rawest. Pain and grief were abundant. But I also received the gifts of grace, hope, and joy.
My oldest brother died in April at age 56 of health issues related to alcoholism. My youngest brother entered rehab on Friday. He’s taught me that there is always hope and that love and compassion can cut through darkness.
My father, who had Alzheimer’s, died in October at age 83 due to a head injury from a fall. I spent my father’s last days with him at Hospice telling him stories of my favorite moments we spent together. His death has brought me a deeper understanding of life.
My niece became pregnant within weeks of my father’s death. The first grandchild. I am to be a great aunt. I have learned you can still be quite young and be a great aunt at the same time.
I’ve nearly succeeded in saving a stray kitty. When I’ve won her trust, I will be the single mother of three black cats. I’m learning to embrace the spinster-with-cats persona.
Throughout this difficult year, my WordPress family has provided comfort, encouragement, hugs, love, and laughs. You have taught me that blogging is about more than writing. It’s about connecting with people all across this beautiful orb. For each of you, I am most grateful.
2013 will be a year of exploration. Of learning who I am through the prism of the events of 2012. Despite the pain and grief, I am a better person for it. But still, I’d like to put the Universe on notice: Enough growth and life lessons for now. Capiche?
I wish you all hope, love, and deep belly laughs in 2013.
Ella
I think Auntie Ella has a beautiful ring to it..
Let us move into 2013 with goodness in our hearts and no doubt the universe will reward in kind..
Have a wonderful new years Eve and yes, let’s rock into 2013!!!
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It does sound nice. Especially since you left the “great” off. I hope you had a grand time last night, Lynne!
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Best of luck for 2013, and beeing the single mother of 3 black cats. Here it is 1 brown dog..
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I love your beautiful dog! Happiest 2013 to you, Bente!
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Sounds like a difficult year – it’s always crushing to lose your dad. So glad you had time to be with him. It made a difference.
No surprise cats have chosen you – they are a comfort/distraction (not a cat person – although other family member firmly are – I’ve learned things from having cats around) Sheltering them makes the world a better place. Even tiny kindnesses make a difference.
Hope lots of smiles and wonderful adventures find you in the new year.
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Thank you! Yes, caring for the lost kitty helps. She definitely stopped wandering in the right place.
Wishing you the best in the new year!
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Sounds like my year….
Cheers to us and a new, open chapter for 2013!!!
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Yes! We’re not just turning the page; we have a whole new calendar. Cheers!
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That sounds like a tough year, hopefully 2013 will be better, hope you have those belly laughs soon
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Thanks, Bob. Things are already looking up 🙂
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