New Year. No Resolution, But Lots of Resolve.

It was a few years ago, I think 2006 that I made the Resolution, of No Resolutions. I had planned to be in Indy today, but with weather I canceled the trip and it gave me some me time today. So today I spent some time reading some of my old posts about New Years, some with resolutions and some just as a review of the year.

One of my favorites was NY2008, as I had just accepted the job that brought me to South Bend. Interesting to see the trajectory of my career and life at that point.

New Things for 2008

I had a few fun oldies with some pictures of Novali and other family events. l wish I had more time to look at old pictures and remember some fun times. I guess time and more good times are happening so fast I don't have time... which is a good thing I figure.

Holidays are Over (2007)

So what to write about this year? Do I start with another apology about not writing as often as I want to be to able to post? I don't know, do I dare make a resolution?

I will say that I am starting 2014 with a lot of RESOLVE. No resolutions, those are for people who wait to make things happen, like waiting for the NYE to start on something they have been wanting to do... I have been trying to seize opportunity when it comes...

I am starting 2014 in a new career... I am the Executive Director of our local Latino Community Center La Casa de Amistad. Wow, not sure I would have ever made a resolution to do something like that, but there it is, and with some resolve to achieve big tasks this year I will continue to enjoy and grow professionally and personally.

I also have another fun venture... I was asked to teach for the Latino Studies Program at IUPUI. I was approached this fall at a reception about it, and I expressed my interest... a little follow up, and now I am teaching not one, but TWO online courses. I have never taught online, but I am excited to be working with college students and teaching a subject I am very passionate about... Latino Issues.

OutSight Consulting has been doing well... and at a time when I need it most. The non-profit world pays more in personal satisfaction than future retirement contributions so I needed some additional income. During fall 2013 I had a record number of gigs, and I have a few fun things lined up for 2014. God has responded to fill the gap left from leaving higher education and I hope he continues to bless this part of my career.

So I am saving the best for last... family in 2014. It will take much resolve... but we will welcome a new family member in 2014. Cruz doesn't really know what that means, except that Heather isn't smuggling a basketball but there is a baby in there somewhere. Novali is only excited because it is a girl, and is struggling over no longer being an only child. I think she will continue to adjust, and enjoy her role more and more of a big sister, mentor and support to her younger siblings.

So there is my 2014 post... A lot of things to look forward to professionally and personally. A lot of challenges that will need constant resolve for us to succeed. So to all of you trying to keep New Years Resolutions, remember that just saying something won't help it happen, doing something about it, consistently and productively will help you accomplish your goal.

Thank you for those who still read my blog, it was a great year. A thank you to my colleagues and mentors that helped me achieve and learn from mistakes. And a big virtual hug, and "I Love You" to my family across the country and around the world.

Gracias. Feliz Año Nuevo!