I have been doing a lot of thinking lately about 2011, and how I really wanted this year full of ups and lots of downs to end. I even commented to a friend the other day that I was really looking forward to ending this year and moving on to 2012 and hopefully a better year. 

This friend, who is very wise and highly respected by me, replied to my email and kindly kicked me in the butt with a reality check. I hope this person doesn’t mind if I quote directly from the email, but I am going to do it anyways, because I think it has a purpose.

“The truth is, “years” don’t bring us good or bad. Life is life. There will be bucket list moments. There will be deaths of those close to us. There will be medical diagnoses. This is all part of life. If you have diabetes on December 31, 2011, you will have it January 1, 2012. The year doesn’t change that, and it doesn’t change anything else.”

The email went on to talk about all the amazing things that were part of my life in 2011 – an amazing trip in the spring to California and Vegas, and then another trip to Vegas and then of course my most recent bucket list trip to see the tree in New York city. And there are so many more moments that are not just travelled related, like having my niece sleep over at my house for the first time last week. My amazing birthday party, where almost 75 people came and celebrated on a very snowy February night, my 40th birthday.

I am putting all of that into perspective and thinking that maybe 2011 wasn’t that bad afterall. I have had some experiences that have helped me learn and grow, personally and professionally. My full potential isn’t even realized yet. I am just starting to realize my potential and hopefully see brighter lights in my future in 2012.

So, tomorrow I am going to end 2011 singing and dancing in my seat to Hair at the Royal Alex. Last year I ended my year singing and dancing with Pricilla Queen of the Dessert. I think it is a great new tradition that I have started…I wonder what will be in town for new years 2012? Who knows….next year has yet to be written.

Happy new year everyone. Be safe and happy and most of all next year…healthy!