It’s my birthday today. Shhhhh don't tell anybody, but I’m inching closer and closer to 50. Yikes! Guess that means I must accept that I’m not qualified to be part of The SCN Nine, or Commercial Integrators’ 40 Under 40 anymore. I’ll have to come to terms with that… somehow. All joking aside, I’m truly ok with being almost 50, maybe I’ll change my mind when I do turn 50, but for now, it’s cool.
I don’t know if everyone does this, but I like to reflect and take stock of my year since my last birthday. Reflecting on 2020 and 2021, overall this last year has been tough in many ways, but fabulous as well! I’m certain that 2020 will go down in the annals of history as one of the world’s toughest years to date. For some though, they thrived, as did their families. Togetherness and resilience were words that had not been thrown around much before last year, and yet that’s what 2020/2021 has taught us. For me personally, it’s been a terrific year even in the midst of a pandemic. I had ALL the major life events happen all with in the course of a year – I moved to a new home in July last year, got furloughed in October, I got engaged, then got an adorable pug puppy for Christmas, started my business at the beginning of this year, and I got married in May. It’s been a whirlwind to say the least! But I am thankful for the blessings and lessons along the way. I’ve truly enjoyed the togetherness that last year brought us. Like many, I’ve been working from home during this time. And though it’s been tough at times finding the balance between work, family, and some much-needed me time, I can’t complain because I have tremendous support from my hubby and family to manage it all.
Still when times got tough, and I would worry about EVERYTHING – getting sick, my loved ones getting sick, paying bills, vaccines, stressing about the wedding, and running my own business…I found I wasn’t alone on my path. Many of my industry friends and colleagues reached out to express that they were in the same boat too. Their strength, courage and resilience gave me hope to forge ahead despite the many hurdles in our paths. I’ve shared my motto before, but seems more appropriate now more than ever, “throw some dirt in it, and get back into the game!” I did that several times over the last year, but getting up, even though gritty, has made me a stronger person.
Thanks to my family, friends, and clients for making it a great, but challenging year. We did it! Together, and with a sprinkle of hope, courage, and resilience. Cheers, and thank you for all the birthday wishes you’ve sent throughout the day!