It has been a year!

As we come to the end of another year,

I look back on the chaos that has been my life in 2024. Interestingly enough, most of it didn’t actually involve me. The things that happened were predominately in my sphere and could have had a drastic effect on my outlook on life.

Sure, we decided to build a new house in May.

We put our house on the market in August and heard crickets. We eventually lost the new build, sold in November and made our typical change of living arrangements down south immediately after that.  Yes, I was involved in that, but the events were not within my control, and it really didn’t phase me too much. It happened like it happened and it all worked out.

Yes, my dad had a rare spinal infection

that took him out of commission for about six months. Of course, I was involved in helping my parents out, but… that’s what adult children are supposed to do. It is the honor and respect earned from raising us. Let me tell you, I was not an easy kid. Again, I followed my two favorite phrases: Family First & It is what it is and it’s all good.

Looking ahead to May 2025,

we don’t know if we will stay in Florida, rent in North Carolina, or take the summer to travel.  I must say, in my past all of these situations and unknowns would have had me tied up in knots and totally stressed out.  However, I’m not.  How can that be?  I have learned (although sometimes I’m still a work in progress) to remain calm, joyful, and at peace with whatever is happening.

Here’s what I've learned (in no particular order):

·         I can’t control everything

·         Not every situation requires a response

·         Silence can speak louder than words

·         Ask clarifying questions

·         Advocate for yourself, and your loved ones

·         Having options is a good thing

·         It’s okay to have doubts, but don’t let them turn into fear

·         God has a plan for my life

·         Stress and worry don’t help anything or anyone

·         Being alone and singing at the top of your lungs can get some frustration out

·         The ocean is definitely my calming place

If you find yourself in chaos, read this list.

Add some things of your own to it. Know that you can step out of the chaos whenever you are ready to embrace being okay with not always knowing how things will turn out.

I have a magnet on our fridge that says, “Today I will go with the flow.” It is a great reminder to remain calm, joyful, and at peace with whatever is happening.

*Of course, unless you are in a violent, dangerous, or emergency situation. In which case, take the action you need to be safe.