Most of my friends know that I somewhat loathe New Year's Eve, and my main goal is to try to dodge parties and celebrations EVERY year. However, because I'm blessed with such good friends, EVERY year they start asking sometime around Mid-November what my New Year's Eve plans are, and list all the many options I have to choose from for events and celebrations.
After working early morning hours for so many years, I always just want to watch a movie and go to bed early. And this always surprises them because usually I'm quite the social bug. However, for all my loathing of the 31st...I absolutely love New Year's Day!
For me, like most, it's about a fresh start, closing the book on the year before, and looking ahead to the next 365 days. I also like walking the quiet streets and taking in the abnormal silence of a still sleeping city. And if I'm really lucky, I round out my day by meeting friends for brunch.
2007 was one of the worst and best years of my life, and so I'm happy and sad at the same time to see it go. However, I pray that 2008 brings me to new places personally and professionally. I have quite a laundry list of things I want to accomplish, but for starters: I want to travel to France to reconnect with friends, fulfill a dream by visiting Spain, and start running again. I guess I'll check back on Dec 31st and see how I did.
However, another thing I do at this time is reflect on my favorite verse:
"For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11
It always fills me with expectation for what's ahead, and hope it does the same for you. Happy New Year!
Michelle
