Reflecting on 2008

I thought it might be a good idea to reflect back on 2008.

2008 was a time of minor change for me. A time for a removal of stress. A time of growth.

It was the first year I had started without Washington, my faithful canine companion, since 1994. In that respect, it was a time of sadness and a time of moving on. It was a time to see that pets' lives are so much shorter than our own and a natural cycle for all pet owners is the death of that pet. It's sad, but it is all part of the circle of life. That is the way God made this world, it is right that the world has death, but that does not mean it is easy.

2008 saw the end of the former leadership in my school district, and a new (although temporary) leadership put in place. With this new leadership, there was a major time of celebration within my school district, almost a freeing from bondage. I don't wish to underestimate the sense of relief when the new leadership was put in place (nor do I wish to get more specific). The district literally heaved a gigantic sigh of relief, those of us who survived and were willing to wait it out. The stress levels throughout the district have dropped tremendously.

2008 saw the long dreamed of deck added to the back of our house. I don't know how many times I stared at the back of my house, anticipating what it would be like to have a nice deck with a door leading onto it. And we were finally able to see that dream come true.

2008 saw a huge maturing of my stepson. I am very proud of the steps Seth has taken to get his life together. He has grown as a person in the last eight months or so, and he seems to be on the right track.

2008 saw me grow as a writer, publishing two new books, and re-publishing my first book, newly updated. Although I am not making more than change on the books, it is a great deal of fun and I shall continue to write.

2008 saw me return to an old love: painting. I have gotten a new set of oil paints and have begun to paint once again (I think it had been ten years since my last painting). I am very rusty, but I am having fun.

2008 saw me falling even more in love with my wife. I know I don't tell her often enough how much she means to me, but she is everything to me. I love her bigger than the trees.

Finally, 2008 saw Cara and me in the best shape we have ever been as a couple as far as finances are concerned. Do we still live paycheck to paycheck? Yes. What else is new there. But we occasionally have a little extra, which is a nice change.

Here is wishing everyone a fantastic 2009!!