The great thing that strikes you on looking back is how quickly you have come-how very brief is the span of life on this earth. The warning that one would give, therefore, is that it is well not to fritter it away on things that don’t count in the end; nor on the other hand is it good to take life too seriously as some seem to do. Make it a happy life while you have it. That is where success is possible to every man. – Sir Robert Baden-Powell

As I move forward toward 2013, I’ve spent the last several days organizing my life, packing up the remnants of 2012, and reflecting on the highlights of the past year. I’ve realized that the best and most important moments are those that are lovingly shared with others and those that are an expression of our hopes and dreams. God is good. Here are some of my highlights from 2012. What is on your highlight reel?

My son’s Induction Day at the Naval Academy. I was so proud and worried!

Weekends with my grandson doing cool grandma stuff.

Going back to grad school means spending time with my favorite gamecock (and sharing her meal plan).

Recording and releasing my first album – a dream come true. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE being in the studio!

The cd release party was a blast!

The grace*ologie events are always a blessing.

A brother and sister reunion. (In the backseat of mom and dad’s car we quickly regressed back to our childhood!) I miss these guys.