Although it is not my intention for this post to come across like the Gwyneth-in-a-pink-dress-Oscar-acceptance-speech,
I must warn you, it might have that feel.
Please forgive me if I forget anyone, I have so many to thank.
********************************************************************************
For me, the changing of the calender year brings with it wishes for things I could have done better and things I hope that I will. I'm talking about relationships, parenting, health, work; the same things most people put on their lists.
When I come to this space, my wish for the year ahead is harder to describe.
I am here because others wished it for me, even before I began to wish it for myself.
You see, I live my life in a land of believers, motivators, cheerleaders. And whether they know it or not, they pushed me to step into this space; to own it, to grow it, to share it.
They are:
- the feisty and fiery Mama of Many who was the first to tell me to take flight with a tiny, blue bird and who has given me so many opportunities to use my editor's pen. You were my first and will always my best.
- a generous Gummy Mummy who dragged my reluctant self to meet-ups and tweet-ups and finally to the amazing Blissdom 2011 conference. You are the most selfless cheerleader and friend.
- the live-outside-your-comfort-zone skater who once said to me when I asked her to wish me luck, "You don't need luck. You are an amazing writer." I hope you know I took that note, folded it up, and tucked it into my heart.
- the beautiful writer who so candidly shared her hopes for herself and told me to create my own. I will forever be grateful that I sat down at your table.
- the should-be-hacker-for-the-FBI-baker who patiently gave me hours and hours of her time to help build this blog. There are a million more hugs where those came from.
- the extraordinary artist (who really needs to establish her online space) behind my logo, my blog banner, my widgets. You are one of my most treasured friends.
- the editor and writer who gave me IRL experience with a side of friendship. I've learned and laughed.
- the besties, Kitty, Gretha, B. You have been lifting me up from the very first moment we met.
- the many, many online and real-life friends who take the time to tell me when my words have brought a smile, a tear, a memory. I appreciate every comment.
- my parents, I could not say it better than Gwyneth herself. You have created a family that loves you and each other more than anything. You should be so proud.
- my sister, who never fails to let me know which of my posts have made her cry and who firmly believes I should pursue a career in writing pet obituaries. You are simply the greatest.
- my husband, who broke his promise never to read this blog, because he didn't believe me for a moment when I said it wouldn't be worth his read. I can't say anything because the swell in my heart is too big for words.
- and my children, who bring my words to life. You push me to look closely at myself and the world, because I want both to be nothing less than the best that you deserve.
I don't know where this will lead or who's behind all those page views. But I do know I'm here because of my believers, motivators and cheerleaders. And because of that, I think I'll stay.
Happy 2012. May your wishes and the ones for those you love come true.
