Peaches and Cream

It's been more than a year since I started this blog.

I know full well that I've let the blog lapse quite a bit during the past few months. Time does get away, doesn't it?

But, even with the lack of posts recently having a written account of the past year makes it easy to look back. I like to think about where I've been, how I've grown, how I've regressed, but most of all, I like to think about how the past year has helped, or will teach, me to get where I'm going.

Some people decided on a goal at 10-years-old, and at 30, have either fully reached it or are working to achieve it. I'm simply not one of those people. My life is not what I thought it would be when I was 10, but on so many levels, it's so much better than I'd ever hoped.

Looking back at 2008 I can see that I've done some remarkable things, while recognizing that I've slid backwards several times.

At my actual paying job, I've seen real farmers make real worldwide connections that improve their livelihoods. I've seen communities make a comeback from the brink of nonexistence. I've seen entrepreneurs watch their products make it to the marketplace. I like to think I've had a small hand in all those things. If only because it makes our state a competitor in the global market and, therefore, a better place for future generations.

In the job I simply call my life, D. and I have purchased a house that we've toiled in to make a real home. I've spent time with friends hashing over things that haven't worked out quite like we planned. I've watched my nephews grow from children into smart young men. I didn't stop smoking, although I've thought time and time again I should. I've seen the first African-American elected president, and I was able to vote for him...twice. I never lost those 10 pounds. I've actually used my passport.

Looking back, 2008 was a pretty good year. Here's hoping 2009 turns out to be just as good. Things will go wrong, of course. And many hours will be spent thinking and worrying about things I cannot change. All I can hope is that the good is better than the bad, but even if it isn't, I know that all will work out in the end.

After all, life can't always be peaches and cream.

L.