Happy New Year! I know we all feel like we should be eager to put 2020 behind us but I am going to reframe that for you. On this New Year’s Eve 2020, I am focusing on two things:

First, look back at 2020 and think about the things that you would not have changed. It wasn’t all bad. Did you get extra time with your kids? While it may have been stressful, you undoubtedly made memories that will last a lifetime. I know I will never forget the ability to wake my daughter up from her naps and the feeling of snuggling that warm, sleepy baby when I would have otherwise been grinding away in the office. I will also never forget the sight of my husband basically shaving our sons’ heads in the backyard for their “quarantine haircuts.” And their squeals of excitement about it! And of course there were the family walks, breakfasts, lunches and dinners. So many dishes but looking back, so many good memories.

Second, rather than making a resolution this year that will evitable be forgotten or broken, choose a word that will be your mantra this year. I first did this in 2017 and I chose “celebrate.” I drank champagne while I folded laundry that year. I didn’t save the good wine. I put music on in the mornings while my kids ate breakfast. I tried to make every day a celebration. In 2018, I chose “slow down.” (Ok, that is two words but whatever.) I tried to fully be present in each moment with my sons and not rush through things, whether it was in the office or at home. In 2019, I chose “adapt.” I knew that we were moving our home and the boys’ schools and thought I may get pregnant as we decided to try. However, I had no idea we would also get a puppy in May and our daughter was born in October so we certainly all had to adapt. In 2020, I chose “focus.” I felt a little scattered after being on maternity leave for the third and final time and really wanted to give my all to every part of my life – my family, my work, my volunteer commitments, my friends. In a way, the pandemic allowed to me cut through the BS and really focus on what is important and necessary in life. I haven’t chosen my word for 2021 yet but stay tuned!

What would you not change about 2020?

What is your word for 2021?

Happy New Year to you all! Thanks for starting this journey with me and I hope to be able to make this year amazing for you as we go through it together!!