I’ve never been one to wish time away.

Some days, months, seasons, years are simply harder than others.

That’s not to say I don’t experience seasons where I keep my vision focused on the future. WAY up ahead of the current time.

2020 has been challenging and uncomfortable. We’re all well aware & if you’re anything like me you are tired of hearing the phrase, “In these trying and unprecedented times…”… I mean, why point out the obvious. {no I didn’t forget the question mark… I intend that to be a statement}.

I’m not sure there is a single person, no matter how great they have it, who hasn’t been affected somehow this year. At times life is just uncomfortable. It pushes us to see things we don’t want to see, consider change, and grow from it. Maybe you weren’t personally affected. Maybe your partner, parents, or kids have experienced discomfort or pain. Maybe it was your friends and co-workers. Maybe you lost someone, more than one, person close to you. Anyone lucky enough to be in your circle has an effect on you. Watching the discomfort of others can be just as painful, or more so, than experiencing your own pain.

This year has encompassed drastic change everywhere. I have learned to slow down, evaluate obligations, consider where I’m actually making a difference and feeling passionate.

I’m learning to be a better listener instead of giving feedback or solutions. {it’s going to be a long process!} I’m seeing areas I thought I was leading when really I was pulling people along. I’d missed the scenic route that is so magical in leadership.

I’ve spent more time home

I learned how to tape and mud sheetrock

I got to say goodbye to two grandmas who meant the world to me

I spent more time having heart to heart conversations with my family

I got creative in spending time with friends

I’ve reconnected with the quiet solitude of a country walk

I talked to God {believer here}

I learned new recipes

I’ve simplified everything in my life

I clarified MY purpose and passion and values

I learned to listen to myself

I’ve changed and grown

You won’t hear me say 2020 was easy. I’ve had my heart ripped wide open repeatedly. And yet… it’s simultaneously been one of the most beautiful years full of incredible gifts. I see the things I’m grateful for with fresh eyes and a glad heart.

They’re small things. The ability to run errands without worry. The freedom of space where we live. My quiet hour before our household starts stirring. Snow on the ground. School. Gatherings with family and friends.

Tough As Nails has faced obstacles in how others can be involved and how we ensure the safety of kids receiving our kits. And yet, we’re still here! We donated 1,616 kits to 5 hospitals and programs this year. We will continue to grow and expand in 2021. We’ll continue to make an impact with love.

This December 31, 2020 I will be thankful to wrap the year up with a bow and tuck it away with other past years. Although, I will do it with a gentle and soft thank you.

Thank you for the pain and discomfort that brought back my clarity and purpose. Thank you for bringing me home and reminding me what truly matters. Even if 2021 looks no different than 2020… I know I can handle it. I will keep growing stronger. So will you.