Hello 2013!!!

As we welcome the new year, I must take a look back on the last year as so much has happened in our life and the lives of our families and friends.  The most obvious biggest change and blessing to our lives is our baby who is turning into a very expressive, "talkative", energetic and independent child.  She has a mind of her own and strong will to back it up.  We have friends who have welcomed new family members with births and marriages - the silver lining of an eventful year.  We have friends and family who have left this earthly plane for a more heavenly one and may their souls rest in peace.  I've learned that mourning from a distance is far different beast - without memorabilia, photographs, family, visitations, funerals and the general comfort of being with others during the grieving process.  However, peace can be found for us all - my peace came with music.  For me, 2012 has been the year that shows just how much can and does happen in twelve months.

So, with all of that in mind, I've decided to give each new year one word to describe my hope for those 365 days.  The word I give to 2013 is ENJOYMENT - to really enjoy something one must be present physically, mentally and emotionally; which might involve slowing down and savoring a delicious dinner, limited time with friends and family, and my daughters laugh.  Well, nothing can grab ones attention like the laugh of child...pure joy.

I was feeling very lucky as we rang in the New Year with my parents and dear friends.  As I may have stated before I was looking forward to seeing the fireworks that everyone lights off at midnight.  Well, I was not disappointed in the least.  The display, which we watched with champagne from our balcony was spectacular.  Since we are the sixth floor, we were eye level with the exploding color show and the smoky side affects.  It was like standing inside a fireworks snow globe.  And the babies slept through the hour long chorus of explosions and loud blasts.  * Side note in Germany people do not say "Frohes Neue Jahr / Happy New Year" until after midnight.

There are 349 days left in 2013 and I plan to experience and gain as much joy and enjoyment as possible.

What is your word for the new year?