I’m sure you’ve read enough about it to know how most people feel about 2020, so my goal isn’t to submit you to yet another blog about how it was the worst or wasn’t the worst, or whatever. It was a year nobody expected, and I think we all need to reflect a little on it.

As we head into the next year, more cautiously optimistic than the last, I think about what happened over the past 365 days. This time last year, I was making big promises and goals for myself. And that hasn’t changed; it has just been dialed back.

In 2020, I lost my job with Minnesota Women’s Press, a future career was put on-hold, and I contracted COVID-19 and battled the symptoms (I still am).

I also celebrated my 10-year wedding anniversary, fell back in love with my home state of Minnesota, made new hiking and camping goals, spent some quality time with my camera, won a few writing awards, and found a new focus for the coming year.

I am happy to announce that I am returning to grad school for a Master’s in Nonprofit Management. I started just last week. WOW it’s a lot of work! I’m having a blast, and my focus has been redirected.

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I’m not sure what to expect out of this year, but I think I’m at the point where having little to no expectations is a good thing. I’ll continue to keep my focus on school, writing, wildlife photography, and having awesome adventures with Andy, Teddy, and Piper. And hopefully, I’ll be better about sharing those adventures 🙂 Cheers to a new year!

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