In a year where it hasn’t always been easy to stay the course and remain positive, my network has stepped up and pushed me through when it didn’t always seem like I’d get out of the weeds. While 2020 isn’t over (and we know much of what is likely to be the reality of at least the start of 2021), this year it is more important than ever to remind ourselves of the good that is here, of the people that make a difference in our lives and that we are not alone.
My annual Thanksgiving post is a true shout-out to those that have stepped in and stepped up to sometimes just take the reins when I needed someone to navigate the course for me. And as someone who needs to be in control, that was not always easy.
But it was necessary.
My partner
My husband Mat is well-known in the fantasy sports industry as co-host of KFAN’s Fantasy Football Weekly and founder of ShockFantasy.com. He lost his day job at the start of the pandemic and has been taking it in stride as much as he possibly can. All while continuing to show his support for me, for the kids and think of things we can do together to keep morale high (the guy put together an entire weekend of Harrison Family Olympics complete with opening ceremonies).
We’ve been married for 18 years and have gone through a lot together. He’s still the person I want to spend most of my time with (good thing since we’ve had to do a lot of that this year, too). He’s been my biggest fan since the beginning and I’m glad to have his support; pandemic or not.
My kids
They are the ones that get on my last nerve and the ones that put genuine smiles on my face. They stress me out and make me laugh. They know just how to annoy the crap out of me and also make me cry tears of joy. And they have been some of the most resilient people this year. It’s a good thing we like each other as a family because we’ve spent a lot of time together this year; and truly, that has been the blessing.
My health
I have walked every day since March 18, 2020 (sometimes twice day!) In the beginning, it was like, “Well, what else is there to do?” but then it turned into something I could easily control in a year where I felt I had lost so much control in other areas of my life. And, it has been a great mental release. So, I walk.
I am grateful for my body’s ability to do the simple things like take a walk, teach a fitness class and keep active with my kids. I don’t typically reflect on that but this year, I think it’s important to do so. Not everyone has those luxuries.
My friends
In the past 10 days, I’ve been overwhelmed with the amazing-ness of my friends. In short, we had two positive COVID cases in our house. This put me as the primary caregiver and also put all of us in quarantine. My friends stepped up in big, unexpected ways. The text messages, the offers to bring by dinner, the unexpected door drops, the coaxing to see if I’m *sure* I don’t need anything from the liquor store…
It’s like magically, just when I’m getting down about not seeing anyone or that I’m the ‘only one’ dealing with the crap I’m dealing with (I know that’s not true … but we’ve all been there, right?) my friends step up.
My family steps up, too, although they live in another state. My mom and dad routinely check in to see what we need/how we’re doing. And my sister is the best person to vent to, exchanged ‘WTH’ texts with and exchange general back-and-forth banter of this ridiculous year we’re living in.
My professional network
First and foremost, to my clients that have stuck with me, thank you. I know that it has not been an easy year for many of you either and together, we’ve been able to continue working on some pretty amazing projects. I appreciate your continued trust, your support and your outreach.
Thank you to everyone who has been a part of my webinar series this year, the virtual speaking engagements I’ve done, and those who have reached out for templates, resources and insight. I know that marketing budgets are low and I’m grateful for the chance to still connect with others in these areas.
A special thanks to those who have also reached out personally on LinkedIn, through email or via phone calls to connect, invite me to Zoom networking events or ask how they can help. LinkedIn was not a channel I would have guessed as one to help me get through a pandemic, but everyone has been so genuine and helpful there.
Our teachers
I have four kids–a 4th grader, 6th grader, 8th grader and Sophomore–and it has been a whirlwind of distance learning, hybrid learning and pivoting through changes at each grade level (and building). I see you, teachers. And so many of you are going above and beyond; you are putting our kids’ best interests at heart and you are trying to be as accommodating as possible to those who are also trying to navigate remote work environments while having kids at home for school. You didn’t ask for the situations you’ve been put in but you are owning them like champs. Keep it up. We see you.
The small business community
Small business owners are resilient. This I always knew. But 2020 took things to a new level. I continue to be impressed by the positivity that continues to come from the small businesses that I know and love. There are many, but three that are near and dear to my heart (that I encourage you to check out) include:
From personal drop-offs of product to my door step to positive video messages and Zoom games for my kids–these three small businesses (all woman-owned!) have been nailing it in 2020. Keep up the great work, ladies. Your resiliency will continue to shine in 2021!
Thank you to everyone who played a role in keeping my head high (and my wine glass full) in 2020. In all seriousness though, it is a healthy exercise for me to reflect on the great things I have. That there is good in the world. That people are here to help. And that whenever I get the chance, it is my responsibility to pay it forward.
May you enjoy a safe Thanksgiving and reflect on the GOOD that is in your life this year and beyond. Cheers!
