2004

in leiu of this evenings festivities, where we say good bye to the old year and welcome with open arms a new year, i am writing what i hope to be a semi-reflection of the past and my hopes for the future.

i hold no regrets for the past year, but i can definately say with confidence that i can't wait to welcome 2005.

ultimately, the year 2004 was not good by any stretch of the imagination. what with natural disaster after natural disaster plaguing our planet, Bush being re-elected and continuing his war on terror...but that's getting on a whole different level. and that level would involve extensive discussions relating to politics, and THAT is no good.

i have had a roller coaster of a year. mentally struggling with multiple issues. i started reading blogs. i started my own blog. that and an amazing support system of family and friends all contributed to me coming to terms with and slowly once again overcoming my depression.

also, this year i watched my dad get weaker and weaker, succumbing to his diabetes. this disease is hereditary in my family, it attacks from both sides of my bloodlines. there was a point when we feared that it had been passed onto me too early. thankfully it wasn't, but regardless the warning signs had been shown and i have been forced to reorganize my health habits. which, when all is said and done, life will be better. it will come, but i will be ready.

i go into this new year's eve festivities with an optimistic eye. 2005 will be a good year. for me. for my family. and for the planet.

don't let things force you to take notice. notice everything. and take it all in.