2017 *Year in Review*

Another year gone and another opportunity to reminisce!

This year, like most, has held highs and lows.

For possibly the first time ever I am fully satisfied with my completion of New Years Resolutions. I ran a 1/2 marathon and finished a tough mudder, built a shelf (it was supposed to be a table but I’ll forgive myself) and climbed a couple mountains.

In 2017 I spent two months traveling. It was a definite perk of working for a school but also a reminder that I am not built for long term tourism or even a pilgrim at heart but truly a bit of a homebody. Nevertheless it had its beautiful moments. I had opportunities to camp with friends from Texas, Washington and BC and even managed to squeeze in a road trip to Oregon and time in Banff. Friendships were renewed and many a sunset witnessed.

At home there was plenty to be thankful for too. High school friendships continued to be strengthened and small group was regularly a beautiful midweek haven of laughter. When Harvey struck I witnessed the strength of community and appreciated the many people who showed up. It might not be for everyone but I learned that the minimalist in me enjoys piling crap on the street and taking a sledgehammer to moldy walls. I also “got to” live in a hotel for the last three months of the year... 2018 and without a completed house can’t come fast enough ;)

On an emotional level I often felt unsure and unexcited about my future and struggled to find a new church home before giving up but this was balanced out with support from friends and family. Even the lows of 2017 came with growth and greater understanding of my interests and motivation.

I pray that 2018 might bring some answers but even if it doesn’t I think it will be filled with new opportunities for joy and new opportunities to achieve resolutions!

My goals for 2018 are:
1. Spend every Sunday off Social Media (FB, Instagram and YouTube) and instead do some more writing
2. Run enough to improve my pace (a steady 9 minute mile is the specific goal in the interest of being realistic)
3. Attempt to make cheese
4. Build two bedside tables

Who knows what this year will old but whatever happens I will continue striving to learn and grow and, of course, loosen my grasp.