Last night as the clock turned to midnight and the calendar eased into my birthday I found myself reflecting back on this past year. The thoughts started flowing and so I put together this list of my takeaways, some joyful and some hard, as I turn 47.
💙Reach out for help when you need it. And if you don’t find what you need, keep reaching.
💙There’s something so magical about sleeping under the stars that makes it worth a few mosquito bites.
💙Do things that scare you, things that challenge you, and things you never thought you could do.
💙Laughing hysterically with friends is healing.
💙Even when there are hard consequences, doing what’s right is always right.
💙Few things can make my heart leap like seeing my son excited about something. This year I’m so glad we got to share Invincible together.
💙Savor the every day moments.
💙Be generous to family and friends with I Love Yous.
💙Believe what people do and not only what they say.
💙Clearing out physical space also clears out emotional and mental space.
💙One of the most powerful ways to resist a bully is with solidarity and community.
💙Always be ready to learn and grow.
💙Italy is a special place and even more so when enjoyed with friends and family.
💙A good workout is cleansing and I’ve never regretted it once.
💙True solidarity is forged through deep relationships and hard times.
💙Our loved ones continue with us in ways big and small even after they’ve died.
💙Give credit and praise where it’s due and don’t be afraid to acknowledge your own failures and missteps.
💙It’s still possible there’s another chance at love out there for me.
💙Sing along with gusto even if you don’t know all the words. Even better if it’s until 2am and with incredible friends.
💙Sunrises are always worth the early wake up. Sunsets are always worth finding the perfect spot.
💙Grief is heavy, but lighter when it's shared.
💙Take book and music recommendations from friends and family. It helps you get to know them better and you may just find some gems along the way.
💙Go on adventures with the people you love.
💙Visit at least one new ballpark every year.
💙Ya gotta believe and you can’t ever count the Mets out until it’s official.
💙No matter how near or far, the bond of family is strong and I would move mountains for any of mine. Even if it’s one rock at a time. And I know they would do the same for me.
💙Joe’s mom makes the best eggplant parmigiana.
Murrells Inlet, South Carolina - November 2024
