2018

As we near the end of another year, I can't help stopping to reflect on what this year has meant to me.  I've recently had a couple of people say to me that I've had a rough year. And, honestly, some not so good things have happened this year.  But when I think back on the year I've had, I don't think of it as a bad year at all.  Actually, this year has been pretty amazing. While I know many people who have had some real struggles this year, when I think of 2018, I think of the amazing journey it took me on with some amazing people and my amazing girls.

We rang in the new year at home and within that first week, I made the journey North to pick up a new foster dog in Roscommon County.  Who knew when I took that journey that I'd be bringing that foster dog into my home forever?  Although Peaches was diagnosed with cancer and our time with her is limited, I am so glad that she came into my life this year.  She has reminded me what it's like to have a goofy, silly, fun-loving youngster in the house.  She is so full of life and love and has been an absolute joy to have here with us.

We reached our goal of hiking 100 miles on the North Country Trail for the third year in a row, and most importantly, we walked all 100 miles together.  It wasn't always easy, but it was so rewarding.   I learned a lot about the heart of one little dog.  Her drive to keep going, to never give up, and to always be there for me.  I always learn a lot about myself, too, when we're out there on the trail alone. It was an amazing year on the trail and I look forward to doing it again!

We made it to Alaska! More than anything we did this year, reaching this goal of making our trip of a lifetime together to Alaska defines the year for me.  While the ultimate goal was to get to State Capitol #49 with Imke, this road trip with three brown-spotty girls was so much more than just that.  It took me out of my comfort zone, it took us thousands of miles away from everything and everyone we knew.  It made me realize just how strong I am and that I can do anything if  just put my mind to it.  I made me believe in me and it helped me become a more confident person.  I am forever changed because of this journey. 

I don't think I'll ever forget that moment as we reached this sign welcoming us to Alaska.  It was such an amazing feeling being there with the three best travel buddies a girl could ever have. 

And ultimately, we reached that 49th Capitol, together.  So many miles, so many memories, such a great journey. 

While Imke got sick shortly after our return from Alaska, I was given the gift of additional time with her.  Time for one more trip to the beach, one more U.P. vacation, and one last chance to see everyone that was important in her life.  We were able to spend quality time together, knowing all to well that the end was coming much sooner than we had hoped, but thankful for every moment and every memory. 

I was especially grateful for this one last birthday celebration and a little taste of Hawaii for my travel companion.

We were able to finish a number of items on Peaches' bucket list, including a trip to Lake Erie, swimming in four Great Lakes, making new friends, going on some pretty grand adventures and celebrating Valentine's Day, St. Patrick' Day, Independence Day, Halloween Thanksgiving, and Christmas.  Tonight we will check another item off that list by ringing in the New Year together in Copper Harbor. 

So while I end the year without one special girl, I am lucky to have two amazing girls here with me to continue making more amazing memories.  It was a really good year and we look forward to continuing our adventures in 2019.  We hope that you all enjoy a Happy and Safe New Year.