Twelve days into 2015, and here, we are all still feeling the wonderful pull and energy of a new year. It is so amazing to see it manifesting in many different ways, and so varying between the eight of us in this house. I am finding myself surrounded by a burst of creative energy from everyone here around me and it's completely inspiring. We are clearing out closets, and making lists, and brainstorming new projects. Imagining all the many possibilities that "high school" could possibly look like for those who will greet it this year. And "kindergarten" too, for that matter. The game cabinet is tidy and neat. Harper has sharpened every pencil in the house. Adelaide has sorted her yarn stash. The art supplies are purged and cleaned and organized and ready for all the making that is to come. Around the fire, we are plotting chicks and turkey poults and the corresponding new shelters that need building. Looking at the seed catalogs, thinking about the garden and the orchard. A new found dedication to certain instruments and hobbies is thriving. And in the late night after-bedtime-for-kids moments, Steve and I are concocting our own plans and dreams and putting them into motion. I made a wild and crazy decision, with the full support (and gentle nudging) of my family, to say YES to a big adventure this year, and just this week booked a flight to Bali. Bali! I can hardly believe I did it, but every time I think about it I get goosebumps of nerves and excitement in the very best of ways. It is an adventure unlike any I've experienced before, or that I've ever even wanted before, and yet this gathering called to me in a way that I had to honor, and did. And so, I am going, and counting my blessings, and counting the days!
All around me is the pull of a new year, of new adventure and fresh opportunities big and small. And a chance to look at things with fresh eyes. Oh, it IS a happy new year indeed. Simply by turning the calendar page? Sometimes that's all it takes, isn't it? We are enjoying that so. And hope you and yours are too!