365 days ago I began a journey. I had no idea where it would take me; I only knew it was something I felt compelled to do. There were many days when photos and words came easy....but there were other days when they did not...there were often days I cried as I posted my photo and wrote from my heart. Those days were difficult and challenging, but now that it's done I'm thankful I was able to record things I wanted to share with my children. I'm also thankful the project gave me something to focus on, something to occupy my time and thoughts and to channel them in a somewhat positive way. In some strange way, it helped me begin to heal. It also made me realize I'll never get over what happened, I can only get used to it. Everything has changed. What once was will never be again, and all I can do is continue to search for and accept my new reality...however hard it may be.
I've thought long and hard about doing this project again. I love looking back at the year and seeing all that I've recorded, but I also know how much time it took away from other things that are important to me.....so I've decided I'll continue to blog, but on my terms, when I want to and when time allows. I've got a lot of things on my "to do" list and am looking forward to starting some new projects, but mostly I'm looking forward to playing with Lego's and Barbies and riding bikes and throwing rocks and splashing in puddles and reading fairy tales and doing puzzles and launching rockets and blowing up volcano's and watching movies and having candlelight dinners and rediscovering the simple joys of life with my wonderful children and amazing husband. I want to cherish each and every day. Tomorrow isn’t promised, next week isn’t promised, but I have this very moment. This minute. This hour. Life is fleeting. It is precious. It is sacred. I am going to embrace it. I am going to love myself and my family with every bit of my being. I am going to go forward with no regrets, no reservations. I am going to pursue what I love. I am going to strive to be better with every breath and every blink. I am going to cry hard and laugh harder. I am going to submit to humanity and God and try not to dwell on what I've lost but rather appreciate all the blessings that have been bestowed on me.
So as one journey ends, another begins...where it will lead, no one knows, but wherever you go and whatever the future holds for you, may you find happiness in all you do.
10 comments:
I know I haven't been around much the past couple of months. Just trying to keep my head above water while finishing up the 365. I have so enjoyed your journey and better yet that we were able to meet in person and form a friendship. I look forward to seeing where this year takes you. All the best to you, my friend.
Have you ever thought about being a writer? You have a way with words that moves me. I am so grateful for this project-that it allowed me to know people like you. You are a blessing to me and I thank you for your encouraging, support, love. I'm looking forward to continuing to watch your precious children grow.
It sounds like your goals for 2012 are right on track where they ought to be. These days of childhood cannot be recalled. When you get some great shots of the kds and the playing...please post here and there so we can all keep in touch with you.
Fantastic photo as a finale! The effect of the light and his little smirk is perfect!
I have to say that meeting you and your family was one of the highlights of my year--and it came to be thanks to our blogging project! I'm so glad you share your thoughts--and not just your photos--with all of us. It's made for truly impactful posts that gave us a more complete look into your world! Thank you for that!
Kristen... it has been just so much fun to 'know' you through your blog and your photos. you definitely have a way with words and i have loved reading, feeling everything that you have posted. i do hope to loosely complete another yearly project, although it'll definitely be on my terms like you say. i can't wait to see what 2012 has in store for you!
Yay! Congrats on a wonderful 365! Although I didn't get to post as often these last few months, I always enjoyed visiting your blog. Like Amy said...writing is definitely another of your strong suits. Not only inspired by your photography, but also inspired by your words.
A perfect 365 finale too...love everything about it!!
It has been a joy to know you through Project 365. Congrats on making it to the finish line! I haven't been around much these past few months, and I'm sad to see you might not continue on here...but I understand and applaud you for following your heart. I'll always consider you a good friend. Wherever life takes you, I wish you peace, contentment, and joy. Happy New Year!
Fantastic final image! Congrats on completing your 365. I totally hear you on having other things to focus on... but please bring us along sometimes on the puddle jumping and the volcano exploding and the Barbie playing <3
Congratulations! I love that shared how this journey affected you. While I didn't do a 365 last year, I do feel similarly about my blog. It has given me something to focus on and has really made me think more about the positives in my life rather than the deep losses I've recently experienced. It's been my outlet. And my refuge.
I'm bummed that you won't be doing it again in 2012, as I'm just beginning. I sure hope you plan to continue to blog regularly. I'd be sad not hearing about what you're up to and how life is going for you.
First, congratulations on completing your 365!! You rocked it Kristin! I'm thankful you took on the project and that I had the gift of getting to know you through it. Often times I felt like I knew you even though I never met you. Secondly, what a photo to end it with! And lastly, I've been so blessed in having the opportunity to meet you in person. You and your family are all the amazingness I got to know through your photos and more. Your goals for 2012 are right on track and I wouldn't expect anything different from you after having met you. I'll watch for your random posts!!
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