It is so insane to say that we are hours away from 2020.  Typing that was nuts. Also, anyone else constantly hearing it in this voice?

I feel like the last couple of years have been so important in shaping so many parts of my life.  I took a new job and career shift in 2017 (best move ever), I travelled abroad in 2018 (such a wonderful experience), and 2019 — man, you’ve been big.

I’ll start with the sad of 2019.  We lost my aunt Sandy in April.  There’s not too much I want to share about that, but I’m so incredibly thankful for precious memories I have with her.  My family moved when I was in 9th grade and there were a bunch of weekends that I spent with Sandy, driving down backroads, listening to gems of the day like “I Love You Always Forever” by Donna Lewis and “Barbie Girl” by Aqua, along with her favorites by REO Speedwagon, Chicago, Air Supply, and Bon Jovi.  I never thanked her for the weekend distractions from the nervousness of a new school, new friends, etc.  I’ll blame that on being a stupid 14 year old, but man, I’d love to be able to go back and tell her how important she was to me.  Lesson learned.

Just yesterday, my family had to say goodbye to our little pup, Maddie.  She was 17 years, 3 months, 21 days old. She lived a long life, but saying goodbye was harder than I ever imagined.  To quote the ever-quotable Forest Gump, “That’s all I have to say about that.”

However, I’ve had some amazing times in 2019. I planted roots and bought a house. I’ve met new people and made some really wonderful friends.  I have also been fortunate to add new memories with old friends.  I’ve spent so much time with my family – which grew with the births of two healthy, beautiful baby girls in June and October.  The big crew of us gathered for (I think) the 4th year of “Razorback Weekend” when the Hogs played A&M.  I’m amazed that my cousin, Randi, made that weekend.  She was a week away from giving birth and was a dang CHAMP.  (And yes, we got our hearts broken for a 4th year in a row.  No need to rub any salt in there.) But seriously – God has blessed me with the most amazing family, the best of friends, and health and happiness… none of which is deserved in any way.  I’m so very thankful for all of the fun, the deep and wonderful belly laughs, and the conversations that covered every topic under the sun.  I hope 2020 brings all of you the very best.

And now, a montage of the people, places, and events that made 2019: