A Year of Transition

Drama...intrigue...career changes...heartache...adventure...love

Amazing year. I was thinking that nothing of substance happened to me this year- then I sat down to write this post. Boy, was I wrong! For my own good, I wanted to honor all of the significant moments of 2006.

Overview:

Left my lucrative job of seven years. That's right- I quit my job without having another job lined up. I discovered that money wasn't enough to make me happy, and once I decided that I couldn't be happy at that job- there were no second thoughts.

Attended a powerful weekend with a group called "Women Within". It's incredibly hard to describe, but I guess the best way is to say that it helped me to get in touch with who I am and what I want out of life.

Started an activity group for women over 35 in the DC area. There are almost 200 members, about 1/4 of which are active. Although the group is quiet at the moment, we've had a lot of fun this year. And I've made some really good friends from this group: J, M, D, B, L, to name a few.

Went to Italy. My first trip out of the country! Yes- I was long overdue. I went to Florence, Pisa, Venice, and several small towns in Tuscany. Absolutely beautiful. And it whet my appetite for international travel.

Joined a national organization for women business owners. I have met so many inspiring and amazing women. My vision for my professional future has begun to take shape as a result of this group.

Launched my own business. Attended seminars, read a lot of books, became quite the networker. My eyes are wide open to possibilities.

Participated in the 48 hour film festival as an actor. It reminded me that I do love acting, and the process of working on a creative project. The experience tells me that I have to find an outlet for my creativity.

Landed my first major client. My work with them has resulted in the best fourth quarter they have ever had! They have since given me two referrals.

Went on a fun camping trip with a bunch of women. It always surprises me that I love the outdoors so much (those that know me are surprised to find out I'm a "camping kind of girl").

Witnessed the birth of my best friend's son. Miraculous. Beautiful. Intense. It touched my soul.

Spent some joyful time with my nephews and niece. The connection I feel to them, even if I don't see them often, is powerful.

Started this blog. Another surprise. I am truly enjoying this interactive conversation I'm having with people I've never met. It seems to fit quite well with the transition I am in.

Said goodbye to a Great Love. In reality, the goodbye took about a year and 2800 miles to accomplish. Though this Great Love has been accurately described as "odd and incomplete"...and though I'm not happy about losing it...I am profoundly grateful that I have had love in my life.

Turned 40. Preparing for this forced me to take a look at myself in ways I haven't in the past. It forced me to let go of certain things. And by the time the actual birthday took place- I felt great: young, sexy, and fabulous.

Enjoyed the holidays with my family. I'm just glad I can say that.

And today, I'm preparing to host a party with some good friends. Lots of food, champagne, and real connection.

Looking ahead to 2007...I don't really want to have a "to-do" list. And I'm worried that having hopes for the year leads to expectations which could lead to disappointment.

Having said that, perhaps I can just "throw some wishes" out into the universe? :) Hell, yeah, that's what I'll do...My wishes:

...to strengthen my relationships with my family
...that my business continues to build momentum, and starts to take on a more defined shape
...to find my partner, a Great Love, that will stick this time

Happy New Year! Here's to an awesome 2007!