For this past year the word is Love. Because of Rob, my family, friends in my life, my condo and the beautiful nature around me every day. I feel I've been surrounded in love and have been exuding love and gratitude this entire year. It's the second year Rob and I have been together and although we don't live close to each other I don't feel the separation. With this emotional intimacy and the sheer comradery of our relationship my heart is healed. I bought a condo in Avon, CO that I remodeled and it's the first year that it's been finished. My father chose to celebrate his 75th birthday here and consequently a lot of family came out for that and we had a remarkable time having "Salon time" after suppers when we would "retire to the parlour" and entertain ourselves with poetry, music, sharing artwork, heartfelt discussion. They embraced this idea completely and with their presence I felt supported in the town I've chosen to root down in. I went to Berkeley, CA and was overwhelmed at how much I love those hills, the ocean, the foliage, the smells, the creativity, the ideas - I felt home, and an appreciation of where I come from. The four days with my family there were magical. Then my parents were again in CO for Thanksgiving and we spent a weekend with Rob's folks and it was all so good. I have a connection with my friends that also makes me feel at home - we share a sense of humor and perspective of things that is incredibly fulfilling. And then there is Sasha and Bandit, my dog and kitten who share my days and are awesome little creatures. So, Love is the word for 2010.
For this new year I would like the word Essence to capture it. To me the word Essence includes my higher self, my deeper self, my best qualities and most importantly, my ability, the Element that is unique to me. I read Sir Ken Robinson's book The Element which discusses this concept and so clearly explains what I believe - that creativity is a human resource we cannot afford to waste. We need all of our creativity to cope and shape the world we live in. I want to know and understand better what my Element is and use it in my life's work. I'm on that quest and if I think of Essence I believe it will help me make daily choices that will lead to these answers. I trust the universe will work in equal measure.