01 Jan A YEAR THAT WILL LIVE IN INFAMY

With apologies to FDR, I am happy to say good-bye to “a year that will live in infamy.” The pandemic, economic problems, and social and political unrest were the earmarks of this year.  It makes me sad, but not without hope.

Although this blog is usually about children’s books and writers, I can’t let this year go without acknowledging the tremendous difficulties and loss that affected so many this year, including children.

Things won’t magically turn around on January 1^st, but there is something healing about turning that calendar page either literally or metaphorically.

I am currently taking part in Julie Hedlund’s 12 Days of Christmas for Writers. One of the things she has us do is list our successes. I appreciate that challenge as it always makes me think. So, I’d like to propose we all think about not just our successes this year, but also the bits of joy we found, and our hopes for the new year.

• Professionally, I had a few successes, although I wouldn’t have recognized them as such until Julie pushed me to do so. I jumped out of my comfort zone, which was scary, but it helped me grow. I got a few manuscripts done even though I thought all my creativity was gone. Personally, I think just holding it all together this year can be counted as a success for all of us.
• Within the fear and sadness of this year, I did find some joy.  Through spending time outside with those in my bubble, finding new places to explore safely, and virtually hanging out with friends, family, and my writing community, I felt sparks of joy.

• I could fill pages with my hopes for the new year (but I won’t). My main hope is that people learn from the difficulties of this year. With the growing awareness of the inequities some Americans face comes the opportunity for change. I hope we learned that we can do better and keep kindness for all at the forefront of our actions this coming year. I hope we look back at the division in our country and realize it’s not good for anyone. We need to come together to heal. And certainly, I fervently hope that as a country (and world), we beat this virus that has ravaged us. It will take us all, but I believe we are on the way.

With a year filled with so much loss, it is hard for me to celebrate. But I do have hope that we can look towards the future together.

What are YOUR successes and sparks of joy you found this year? What are some of YOUR hopes for the future? Please share as we look ahead together.

Wishing you health, happiness, and peace.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! HERE’S TO 2021!