Whether we want them or not, the New Year will bring new challenges; whether we seize them or not, the New Year will bring new opportunities.
~Michael Josephson
Can you believe another year has come and gone?
2017 will be unforgettable for me in many ways. I visited Las Vegas again, thanks to the Keller Williams Family Reunion in February. After my first visit to Vegas in 1981, I really had no desire to go back. But even though this time I didn't gamble, barely left the convention center, and didn't see any shows other than 'Cher'... I still ate some great food, met up with a high school friend who is now a broker in Rhode Island, and... I saw Cher!!
I still have no desire to go back, but I'm really glad I went this time.
In May, Tom and I spent two relaxing weeks in Florida visiting my mother-in-law and celebrating her birthday.
Well, I relaxed while Tom and his brothers repainted the wood trim in mom's house, among other odd jobs. And by 'relaxed', I mean I only spent a few hours a day talking to clients and agents and negotiating contracts, in between trips to the beach and thrift shops, sightseeing, watching television, or playing cards.
The weeks leading up to October got a little crazy. I was helping organize my 40th high school reunion, while also planning to travel to Italy for the first time in 41 years with classmates the day after the reunion. It forced me, for the first time, to trust someone else to help me with my business - a huge step for me. But I knew I needed to do it for my clients.
The reunion felt rushed - so much planning for so few hours, and never enough time to talk to everyone.
But Italy... I had dreamed of visiting it again for so many years... enough years to think I would never make it back. We had the perfect balance of "busy" and "rest"... and I was blessed with the perfect traveling companions and hosts.
Once again there were some nerve-wracking, challenging moments in my business this past year. But while I didn't quite meet the goals I set for 2017, I went to Italy!
My team leader keeps reminding me of that. And I still improved on last year while continuing to do what I enjoy... helping people, challenging myself, learning, meeting new people, and spending time with friends and family. It's still my dream job and I'm so grateful for it.
But the best part of 2017? Finding out that my first grandchild will be born in 2018.
So 2018, I welcome you with open arms! Happy New Year, everyone!
“At the sound of the tolling midnight bell a brand new year will begin.
Let’s raise our hopes in a confident toast, to the promise it ushers in.
May your battles be few, your pleasures many, your wishes and dreams fulfilled.
May your confidence stand in the face of loss and give you the strength to rebuild.
May peace of heart fill all your days, may serenity grace your soul.
May tranquil moments bless your life and keep your spirits whole."
