nanherlihen

As we get ready to bring in the New Year you can’t help but reflect on the one that has just been. I can’t believe how quickly 2011 has come and gone. A fast paced year filled with laughs, lessons, experiences and a sad good bye.

Its been a challenging year at work. People still never fail to amaze me both good and bad and as I continue to learn more and more about people everyday, I hope that the lessons I have learned in 2011 will equip me  in 2012 with patience, understanding and courage. Patience to keep me level, understanding to see as others do and courage to say it like it is with respect.

2011 saw me embrace social media and its possibility – such an inspiring space with unlimited potential. So many amazing and inspiring people who have guided me – namely my Suzie Q and David Hood. I hope that you will all embrace social media in 2012. Don’t let pre conceived notions deter you from experiencing the wonder and power of social media.

I hit the road and travelled again in 2011. Almost 20 years since my first travel adventure (backpacking through Europe) I ventured  back to London to be with my best bud days after the birth of her first born. Distance is no obstacle when true friendship and significant life events are involved. I am thankful to my family for allowing me the indulgence. A special thank you also to G who took time out of his implementation schedule to show me the sights of London. A real lesson in keeping things in perspective – work is important but its not the most important.

I finally started my correspondence study and have given myself a target of 3 years to complete my Diploma (I’m not very good at correspondence so must learn the discipline in the coming year!).

My little boy has started talking and communicating with him this year has been uplifting. Children are so innocent and the way they communicate can teach us so much. Fearless in their interpretation and abundant with imagination we always have loads to learn from children. Many laughs have been had with my son as he grasps the use of the English languages. I am looking forward to his insights in 2012.

One of the saddest moments of 2011 was REM’s announcement that they were calling it a day. For those of you who know me well, you understand the significance of this and my love of their music. From the moment I was introduced to REM they have been an inspiration and feature in many of my memories through life. Even though they are no longer making music they have left us with over 30 years of inspirational music that I am sure will comfort me for many years to come – true love never dies. So I could be cliche and say it’s the end of the world as we know it (and in a way it is) but instead I’m going to point out that  its an opportunity to find the next band that will help me make new memories.

Overall, although busy and challenging I have survived 2011 and have had some fun times along the way. Thank you to all my friends and family who have shared 2011 with me.

I wish everyone a happy New Year filled with laughter, good friends, good health, opportunity, music for the soul and social media. May your 2012 resolution be to have fun!

I leave you with my inspiration for 2012 from the one and only REM (of course) – Make my make believe believe in me… just be in 2012 and may only good things come your way.