Accomplishments and Refelctions

The Winter solstice passed with a full moon, little snow, and ready to pass that shortest day of the year. The inbetween week, after Christmas of gatherings, traditions, baking and lots of food and before the New Year starts us on a new adventure all over again. Usually a time for reflection as we take down the decorations, ponder on the past year and what it meant to each of us. Milestones, changes, accomplishments, goals to make the next year better and gratitude we survived through the ups and downs.

2018 for this heart?

Accomplishments; walked daily, squeezed in 12 hikes adding up to over 1040 miles trekked. Which accounts for new hiking boots and three pair walking shoes.

Changes; Officially retired! Embarking on new territory or work less, play more. More time for gratitude of the little things in life, sunrises, mochas, snuggle time with pups, projects in the yard or house and being able to grab the camera and go. Flexibility to be able to jump on a plane and visit family.

Major life changes; We became orphans as we held Dad's hand and helped him be Heaven bound. But with every soul leaving the Earth a new one arrives! Welcome to our lives the newest grand daughter, Rosalind.

Reflections; Celebrate every day, treasure simple moments and small natural wonders. It is all about balance.

What goals and expectations will come in 2019? Looking forward to new discoveries and keeping the balance.

A dear friend sent me a sign as a gift.....so perfect, " when life gives you mountains, put your boots on and start hiking!"

* I have more trails and mountains to conquer, more bears and wildlife to capture. I hope for 24 hikes and 2000 miles this year. This does mean more investment in boots and shoes and gear.

*I anticipate the moment I meet in person my newly found little sister!

*To find at the very minimum one moment of joy and peace every day.

*Read more books!

*Use my tripod often....even packing it to top of trails. There will be visiting the favorite and familiar trails as well as seeking out new ones not explored with these boots and camera.

Tuck 2018 into our memory banks, learn and appreciate all it gave us. Start 2019 off like you should every other day;

"with a promise find one thing each day that will make your heart light up. If you have not found it, be on the look out so it does not pass you by".

Great adventures start at home and in the heart.