In Roman mythology, Janus (or Ianus) was the god of gates, doors, doorways, beginnings and endings. His most prominent remnants in modern culture are his namesakes: the month of January, which begins the new year, and the janitor, who is a caretaker of doors and halls.
This is always an interesting time of year. A time where we reflect on the past and at the same time look forward to the future.
2008: In Review
+ Fiona and I started the year as empty nesters and finished the year that way, but we did have a six month period where one of our sons was back at home. Still feel way to young to be empty nesters.
+ We traveled a lot in 2008 and probably will continue in 2009, but you can never tell.
+ Managed to see a lot friends from around the world in 2008. Definitely a highlight.
+ Enjoyed a great family vacation with the grown up kids.
+ Attended a lot of events in 2008: great concerts; the Colts; Brickyard 400; etc
+ Had a number of visitors in 2008: Fiona's Mom, My Dad, the Blackmores, Matt Wells, the Swindells for Christmas
+ Still part of a good church family here in Indy and still connected with Houston, Inverurie, Ellon and Aberdeen
+ Did a lot more speaking in 2008 than I intended on doing
+ Fiona started to play golf this year
+ Christmas was great this year. We didn't spend a whole lot this year, so the presents were ok. The big plus was having all of the kids here plus Steve, Lorna and their kids. Excellent time.
2009: ???
+ Travel will feature a lot in 2009: dad's 80th birthday, Houston, New York, Asia and UK are already in the calendar for 2009
+ Fiona's twin sister arrives for a week in February
+ Need to think through New Year resolutions that I can live with (i.e. ones I will actually execute on)
+ Navigating the business through another year of uncertainty and turbulence will be challenging
+ A more conservative approach financially is in play for 2009: spend less, save more
+ Some weight loss and better fitness levels are also on the agenda (Fiona will be happy to read this part)
As I look back, I have a lot of things to be thankful for. While it is important to reflect, we cannot live in the past. With all of the uncertainty that is ahead of us in 2009, I am going into the year with an air of excitement about what is possible. Knowing that the throne is still occupied provides a sense of security that I need to focus on the things in life I can influence or control, but release the things to Him that are outside of my control.
Whatever 2009 holds for you, I pray that you will know His blessings and guidance every step of the way.
