Relections on 2008

A year ago tonight, I stood with my wife in the middle of Marina Square in Port Lucaya on Grand Bahama. We brought in the New Year as we listened to the Calypso band's version of "Auld Lang Syne" as we watched a fireworks show above the bay. We held each tight and anxiously awaited the year ahead. We had big plans 2008. The first half of the year began well enough. We celebrated our 5 year wedding anniversary, went surfing in Cocoa Beach, celebrated my new job, and continued to build new and incredible relationships. We got to swim with the dolphins at Atlantis, and be on the field as the Cubs were taking batting practice. Things quickly turned for the worse.

I had to have an unexpected surgery in June and came much closer to dying while recovering than I would ever want to. I spent several months recovering from that surgery. Shortly after that I began to look jaundice which was the first sign the my liver was going bad. Not long after that I began this journey.

So as I look back on 2008 I try to focus on the good times and memories we have had. I try to remember the times with new friends and old. I try to look at 2008 as a year that will be remembered. I try, but it is hard. But it will be remembered. Even if it for the wrong reasons.

Now my attention moves toward 2009. The next year will already begin on a rather down note. We still must wait for the inevitable surgery and long grueling recovery that will follow. Not knowing when it will happened makes it difficult to make any predictions or have any real expectations f0r 2009. This much is for sure though. What ever 2009 has in store for us, we will be ready. Despite the immediate challenges will have to face, we will overcome them and there should be plenty of time left to make 2009 another memorable year. This time, for the right reasons.

Wishing you the best for 2009, and that it be your best year yet.