Year In Review

Once again, another year has flown by making my head spin.  Overall, 2024 can be placed under the "win" column as I have been able to scratch off quite a few bucket list items.  Primarily this has been the year to catch up on a few health issues: annual physical, lab work, cataract surgery, and so much more.  I still have one medical issue outstanding, but I remain diligent in taking care of yours truly.  In August, I celebrated 18 years of sobriety at my local A.A. group.  This was definitely a memorable event as I never thought I would be alcohol-free for this long.  A testament to the power and influence of God in my life.  Another focus is that of relationships.  As I grow older, especially after turning 51 a few days ago, the value and worth of friendships and family ties increases exponentially.  It is with great pleasure that I was able to help celebrate the marriage of my brother and his fiance with the blending of two families in the Golden Triangle area of Texas.  After a splendid evening of food and fellowship, the two lovebirds headed to Hawaii in order to tie the knot.  I now have a new sister-in-law and extended family to welcome into the fold.  In addition to a marriage, I also discovered another family I didn't realize I had.  Through an article in the March 2024 issue of Texas Highways magazine, I was able to connect with a distant cousin.  They are related through the brother of my great-great-grandfather.  As a result of this newfound connection, I am now invited to the 63rd annual Schwab family reunion in New Braunfels in October, 2025.  Throughout the Fall, I have also seen family more times than I have in the previous few years.  Whether it is attending a Round Rock Express baseball game, to spending time in Victoria, or making multiple trips to Nederland, I am thankful for the opportunity to visit, as well as to renew and strengthen the ties that bind, with family.  As the year comes to a close, I am cognizant of the need to tie up a few loose ends.  I don't want anything to carry over into 2025.  A new and clean slate is always nice and enjoyable.  What are my goals for next year?  One idea I'm chewing on is to get re-skilled for a potential new career.  Paralegal studies?  Journalism?  The local community college offers an Associate Degree in both fields.  If financial resources prevail, I may head up both.  I was simply tired and frustrated after spending most of my life in retail.  Another bucket list item is to camp more in Texas' beautiful state park system.  Spending more time in nature is great for a person's mental and physical health.  Coupled with exercising at the gym, I can only stand to benefit from the endeavor.  Don't forget the reason for the season.  Jesus is the only person and relationship that makes life worth living.  He is my hope for taking on life one day at a time.  What is your vision for 2025?  Don't take on the new year without Jesus and His loving will for our lives.

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