Thinking Back and Looking Forward

 

At the close of the year, we tend to reflect on the past year and look ahead to the new one.  I think this is especially true for me this December.  Although Sam and I had been growing in our ttwd/dd relationship for quite a long while, it wasn't until March, 2015, that I finally plucked up my courage and wrote my "First Hello" to one of you.  I was so nervous that I let the email just sit on the monitor for almost 4 hours before I pressed "Send."

It was a giant step for Ella.  I had been an avid reader online for so long, and now I wanted to be a participant.  All the stories and posts had real people behind them!  I was both amazed and petrified.  Most of you know that Meredith was my mentor at first.  Lots of good advice and encouragement.  She soon urged me to think about a blog.  She held my virtual hand all the way through that and answered a hundred questions.  But like a good mother bird, she finally just pushed me out of the nest.  She knew I was ready to fly even if I did not. 

     "Keep it honest," she said, and I think of that with every post.   

                                   Dear, wise Meredith.

The writing came easily enough, and I found that I enjoyed sharing our ttwd experiences.  More importantly, I appreciated the feedback that followed in the comments.  I learned so much that way.  I started to meet other bloggers and found they were not scary at all!  They were silly and funny and sweet and kind.  I was so surprised at how much personality shone through in each blogger's writing.  Some posts were poignant or sad, some confused or frustrated, some were romantic or sexy, and some were delightfully humorous.  So I have loved following the ups and downs of others' relationships, too.

A special mention needs to be made to the authors whose books I have so enjoyed reading this year.  The characters and stories you create bring me satisfaction and many smiles. 

So a big thank you to all of you that have made me feel welcome this year.  A salute to new friends.  I feel very fortunate and wish you happiness and health for 2016.

                           Happy New Year, my friends!
                                 Love, Ella