I’ve never really felt like New Years was all that “new.”  For me, the fall has always been the time of renewals and grand starts–maybe it was the new school year, the waning sun and harvest time.  I became a mother for the first time during the fall (many, many falls ago…)  So, New Years has always been a bit underwhelming for me–as far as new beginnings go that is.  Except for this year.  This year has already been different. To start, I turned 40 at the beginning  of the month.  I’m not particularly attached to a number, but 40 has caused me to pause and take stock of all that I am grateful for–which is quite a lot!  I hope to have at least another 40, 50 or 60 years…  I spent my birthday in Arizona where I was attending Imaging USA–a wholly inspirational business event unto itself!

I then travelled to Sedona, AZ and found myself surrounded by staggering scenery and the spiritual energy of the wild energy vortexes.  A friend and I hiked up for some quiet time and as I was sitting on the top of this plateau, a young couple from Japan arrived. The young man pulled a wooden flute from his pocket–and proceeded to play the most touching sounds for the next 20 minutes–incredible!  It was seriously one of the most amazing experiences–a live soundtrack to meditate to!  We also found our way to the Buddhist stupa–hidden in the center of town.  It was amazing to have spent time in a place where people journey to from all over the world, focusing inward and clarifying their intentions.  I am so grateful to have had a day there…

Back in Oly, energized and ready to get back to work.  I did have a small diversion of a birthday party though… look at the whole Green clan of siblings made it!  I took it easy–and felt great the next day.  I can’t say the same for half of my siblings… glad I wasn’t on the front page of the family news!

And then…our AMAZING new leader to the reins of our country!  My husband, son Em and I spent the day watching the crowds, listening to the speeches, and feeling FINALLY hopeful.  I am so so so VERY proud our country elected Barack Obama as President!