Happy new year, 2024!
When I was at Cape Henlopen yesterday, I kept thinking how the waves sung a perfect song for transitioning to a new year. The surf was relatively quiet – but there was still that soft swoosh of the backwash rushing back to the ocean, only to catch the next wave curling onto the shore with an expectant splash. Like breathing. Out with the old – in with the new.
Who knows how the year will unfurl? I have plans, and hopes, and dreams – and a few niggling worries. But it does seem to me that declaring intentions for a new year is an important catalyst. After all, who could have guessed that when I made a vision board in January of 2022 that my dream for a writer’s retreat at the beach would actually come to fruition much sooner than anticipated?
To keep me grounded, I have two new owl mascots for the coming year.
The first was a gift from Maria at the start of our retreat; she said it made her think of the possibility we might soar in 2024. She actually bought a matching one so we’d both have a talisman. Mine is named Viv – to bring to mind my intention to be a vivacious elder. Maria’s is named Joy – a cue to be present to the good things life brings.
My other 2024 mascot is a bright and fanciful owl portrait by Tricia Robinson that I’ll have framed. I discerned that her name is Helen because for some reason she calls to mind that “yes, I am wise, but it’s wisdom born of pain. Yes, I’ve paid the price, but look how much I’ve gained. If I have to, I can do anything. I am strong. I am invincible. I am woman.”
I have a whole page of resolutions and goals, in addition to the aforementioned intention to be a vivacious elder. I envision a vivid, connected, contented, and healthy life full of joy and gratitude. I plan to find ways to contribute to the collective good, to be a positive force. I have several interesting contracts lined up where I can do work I am proud of, and I am committed to writing my book to advise leaders on developing people. I’m fashioning a new approach to life. I’ll be reading books, crafting crossstitch projects, trying new recipes, and ever walking on the beach. And I’m going to learn to make pasta from scratch!
I hope you’ll tell me about your goals and dreams for the year – and let me know what I can do to support you in achieving them.
I expect one of my first accomplishments will be moving into my new condo. I got a first look the other day to check out construction. (Thank you to Tad and Pat for lending their eyes and expertise to the inspection.) It’s becoming real!
Look at how light and bright it is! Imagine my writing nook, my reading corner, my game table… I’ll take a whole set of empty condo pics after I close on January 22. More condo pics than you’ll ever want to see to come!
You know how people name their beach houses and their boats? I’ve been thinking about that… “my condo” is descriptive, but not evocotive. With Daniel’s approval, I decided to name my new place “The Next Chapter.” It’s a place to reinvent myself. A place to keep turning to a new page to see what life brings. A place to invite you all into an enchanting story. Come visit!
My love and best wishes to one and all for a happy, healthy, abundant, joyous, (dare I say nontotalitarian), generative new year full of love and laughter with family and friends.
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I recently read a New Years Eve devotion which challenged the reader to consider what to leave behind and what to bring with us into the new year. My plan is to spend this week contemplating just that. One thing that I can be sure to bring into 2024 is time spent with you. So whatever my activities will be I know they will be interspersed with many fun get to togethers. Your suggestion of the Wilmington Ballet sounds like a great way to start the year! Talk to you soon, Maryellen
Very well written. Glad that you are following your dreams!