Wrapping up 2023: A Year of Joy, Resilience, and Reflection

I find myself reflecting on the roller coaster journey that 2023 has been. In a word, it's been humbling. It's been a year marked by major life events - celebrations of life, celebrations of resilience and relief, and a final act of significant challenges and grief. Three major events stand out which I feel paint a picture of the last twelve months:

My daughter, Lily, was born on April 15.
We moved into our new home in Louisvile, CO. It was built from the ashes of our first home we bought in 2021 that was destroyed by the Marshall Fire.
In a first in my career, I was laid off from my job.

1. Welcoming Lily - A Legacy of Strength and Love (April 15, 2023)

The most joyous moment of 2023 was welcoming our daughter, Lily, into the world on April 15. Lily came into our world smiling - excited to be here and be a part of our world.

As we saw Lily thrive and grow, our joy was abruptly rattled and disturbed by the events that happened on October 7th in Israel. There was an immediate sense of overwhelming shock and sadness. After reflecting and grieving over the horrible events, there was something that kept me steadfast, something that helped me move forward - Lily's namesake. Lily is named after my grandmother, a Holocaust/Auschwitz survivor whose legacy of resilience and courage continues to inspire my family. Every smile, every giggle from Lily feels like a tribute to her great grandmother, as if she is living proof that we can overcome the darkest chapters of history. I feel that my grandmother's legacy extends beyond our family, and is a story of hope for all the victims of the October 7th attacks - especially the hostages and their families. It's a reminder that the lessons of the past are ever more relevant, especially right now.

Lily's arrival in these tumultuous times feels significant. She embodies not only her great-grandmother's indomitable spirit but also our hope for a future where peace and understanding prevail. In her, we see the potential for healing and the enduring power of love.

2. Rebuilding from Ashes - Our New Home

This year also marked a significant milestone in our journey of rebuilding. In 2021, our first home was tragically claimed by the Marshall Fire. The loss was profound, but from those ashes, we've built something new - a home that is filled with hope and aspirations - not to mention two kids that never cease to keep our life interesting (and our sleep at a minimum).

Moving into our new house was more than just a change of address; it was a lesson and reaffirmation of resilience. It allows us to look back on this event and see how far we've grown as a family unit and individuals; it allows us to say to ourselves that despite the challenges and loss, we overcame, and will continue to overcome!

3. A Career Crossroads - Embracing Change After A Layoff

Finally, 2023 brought an unexpected turn in my professional life. For the first time in my career, I faced a layoff. The initial shock and uncertainty gradually gave way to introspection and new possibilities. This period of transition has been challenging, but it has also opened doors to new opportunities and a chance to reassess my career path. It's a reminder that sometimes, the end of one chapter can be the beginning of an exciting new narrative.

Closing Thoughts

As I wrap up this year, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences that have shaped it. The birth of my daughter, the creation of our new home, and the shift in my career path have each taught me invaluable lessons about joy, resilience, and the power of change. As we step into 2024, I carry with me the hope and strength taken from this remarkable year.

Here's to a new year, filled with health, growth, and love.