When 2012 crept up on me and slapped me in the face, I along with countless other people reflected on the past year and wondered how 2011 could already be over.  I have never been a successful resolution keeper, so last year I didn't make any resolutions.  As a matter of fact, the beginning of last year was not a great time of my life to say the least.  If I had to describe what 2011 was in a single word it would probably be 'overwhelmed'.   I spent this past year treading water.  There were times when I managed to grab a life vest and float, soaking in the warmth of the moment only to have a ferocious wave knock me back under the sea of life.  

Some of the things that helped me float last year:

January 16 - started this blog which has for the most part been very therapeutic for me. 

Two visits to New York.  Once to see my brother, Matt, graduate from The Academy of Dramatic Arts.  You can read the blog here and see more pics here.  The second visit was a three-week stint in July/August in which I determined to get my groove back.

June - Auditioned for a role in Storybook Theatre's production of Anne of Green Gables.  Was cast as Mrs. Minnie Pye!  Thanks Jacqueline for taking a chance on me!  Rehearsing and performing breathed creative life into me and I met some great friends in the process!  If you enjoy singing and don't mind performing in front of an audience I would highly recommend community theatre.   I still haven't done a wrap-up post on my experience because I have been super busy since the play ended. 

More than all of this  was love of great friends and family and most of all was the reminder I was given at the beginning of the year when a friend told me about Tim Chester's 4 G's of the Gospel. 

• God is great – so we don’t have to be in control
• God is glorious – so we don’t have to fear others
• God is good – so we don’t have to look elsewhere
• God is gracious – so we don’t have to prove ourselves
  

This year a lot of bloggers are using one word to focus themselves on how they want the year to turn out.  I like how Robin at Farewell Stranger describes how one word (or an idea) can impact how you view things.  I think my word for this year is Navigate.  I have been thinking about how each day and situation calls for a focused reorientation of purpose and directon in order for there to be consistent progress.  If I can set a course and then navigate through this sea instead of treading water then 2012 will be a better year.


Have you made a determination for this new year?