On the last day of one of my more difficult years, the feeling that is overwhelming me is one of gratitude. I realize that as I stumbled and struggled this year, I was held up, loved and supported by family and friends. Their understanding and caring buoyed me and kept me afloat. For that, the gratitude I am feeling is hard to contain; it needs to be expressed.

Mom and Dad, thank you for all of your love and support; for welcoming me back with open arms into our home.

Gail and Chris, for being there when I reached out for help. You listened; never judged. Thank you for being my spiritual safety net and for offering me a safe haven as I embark on this new adventure.

My girls, Bronwyn and Hannah, thank you for being my girls. Hannah, your hugs were (and are) phenomenal and healing. Bronwyn, you are wise beyond your years and sometimes I feel I learn more from you than you do me.

Stephanie, my Monkey, your love and our laughter was a source of healing for me, thank you sweetie.  

Ash, thank you for picking me, dusting me off and bringing me to my doctor that day in June. Both you and Hector showed me so much love and compassion, I will never forget it.

Alan, Janina and Vivi, thank you for welcoming me into your home every week. The time I’ve spent with you was another source of healing.

Alan, thank you for being you; I’m a better person for having met you and I’m so happy that you’re in my corner.

Friends, you know who you are, thank you for checking in, being patient and not giving up on me.

Richard, thank you for seeing the potential to help others by sharing what lies ahead. Your positive energy has been contagious.

Terence, my soon-to-be trainer, thank you for taking a chance and agreeing to take me on as a fighter.

Universe, thank you for sending Tommy my way. Tommy is the owner of the moving company I hired to pack up my things. When Tommy noticed a boxing figurine it sparked a conversation that led him to recommend Alan.

Universe, thank you for sending Dahna my way with a gift in hand that I hope will shape the year ahead; a book that has become my new life paradigm.

I have been so fortunate to have received so much in 2010. I can only hope that I was able to give you as much as you have given me.

 Happy New Years Eve Everyone!