Happy 2010, friends. We made it through 2009. I’ve been debating the value of writing a New Year’s post because I’m a bit scattered in my thinking/feelings at the moment. I reread last year’s post, and I’m glad for it, so here I am marking the occasion.
New Years Day is my favorite holiday, followed closely by Halloween. As I mentioned last year, I don’t make New Year’s resolutions. I make them all year long as I need them. And yet, New Year’s Day is a great time for quiet reflection, giving thanks to the Universe, taking stock and making plans. It’s a hopeful, optimistic day. I should bottle this vibe and use it all year.
Taking stock
Here’s one of the cool things about blogging – it’s easy to remember the good things from the past year. I’m glad for a number of things, including:
- a trip to Boston
- speaking at WordCamp NY
- taking a first place prize at the National Arts exhibit at Hopkins
- earning a master’s certificate
- pinhole photography
- completing the sketchbook swap
- drawing every darn day
- recovery from a Kung Fu related knee injury
- Panson
- The good health of my family
- All the good people I’ve met this year, too many to post here
What’s Next?
Here’s where the fuzzy part comes in – I’m not quite sure yet. I’m still haunted by TEDxMidAtlantic. “Sell your cleverness – purchase wonder.” I was left with a strong sense of possibility and community and optimism.
A blog post by Dave Troy captured my imagination, along with a tweet in which he said:
Everyone around you benefits when you pursue your passions; following your dreams can be altruistic.
I love how I make a living. I like where I work (both places). I like (and need) all the spinning plates in my life. And yet, I suspect there’s value in spending the next year focusing on fewer things and doing them very well. I’m not going to quit my job and have a start-up as Mr. Troy talks about, but I intend to spend my free time by taking one of my ideas and fully developing its potential. I hope that everyone benefits, too.
In the mean time, I’m still on track for taking my black belt test soon (knees permitting). And, I’m looking forward to speaking at WordCamp Boston and at FitBloggin’.
Happy New Year, my friends. I hope it’s as amazing I think it’s going to be…