Saying So Long to 2021

Probably fitting that on the last day of a somewhat poopy year, we lose a favorite icon. Betty White died, just shy of her 100th birthday. And she was feisty and funny to the end. Amazing.

She's had some good quotes over time and I like this one pictured. It epitomizes why my blog is called On the Light Side. Find the humor and the light side of things and it will get you through the dark or just plain dreary times.

Like 2021. For many, anyway.

It was definitely an interesting 365 days. Some challenges, of course. And weird "new normal" things I'm not quite ready to accept as normal just yet. Working from home, for one. Is it ironic in a peculiar way or simply scary way that today marks the 666th day at home? Not even kidding. Uff da. 

Let's focus on some positives instead! Had an amazing trip to Alaska this year plus fun weekends with sisters and friends. Jim and I had a great time at the Ryder Cup and golfed together a few times, too. Mostly, we had our own golf buddies and that was fine.

Somehow, knock on wood, we stayed healthy. Our kids did, too. At least as far as avoiding the big virus. Hoping that continues in 2022.

The one thing we really appreciated in 2021 over 2020 was finally getting to see people again – and actually hug them! It took 'til July but we finally had the first gathering of my family since December of 2019. That seems so unbelievable. Will never take that freedom to socialize for granted again.

We did lose some people in our lives this year – on both sides of our family – and there were a few close calls, too, but thankfully the power of prayer worked in those instances. We also welcomed some new life into our family – again, on both sides (one great-nephew and one great-niece). How exciting that life and love prevail!

We also managed to stay up until midnight two nights this year. Just kidding. It's 11:06 p.m. and I don't think I'll make it. We did have a fun evening gathering after 4 p.m. church in Rudolph with other members of the guitar choir. Lots of food, laughter, and singing to serenade the old year out of existence and ring in the new year. 

Happy New Year!