It's been a tough year. It's been hard, humbling, financially difficult, too, and that's one reason I'm greeting the holidays and 2010 with such enthusiasm. I'm stoked for what's in store because I'm leaving behind some exhausting (although definitely memorable) experiences.
I recently went back and read this post, which I wrote on one of my darkest days in mid-March. I was feeling particularly awful that day, low and sad and lonely. Kyle screamed for most of his first two months, and that made for eight very long and emotionally draining weeks. It stuns me that we have the same kid as back then because if you've been lucky enough to meet Kyle, you know he's a happy boy.
What I think of most when I read that post, though, is your support. Dozens of people reached out to me and to say you each helped me through that time is such an understatement, it's ridiculous. The blogging community saved me and without you, I wouldn't have been able to make it through, I know that. You're a force, I tell you.
When this community bands together, cool things happen, I've seen it countless times, and I know my readers are especially incredible. I've felt it firsthand. So, I'm stealing this great idea from Kristin, one of my favorite bloggers.
For every comment I get on this post from now until December 31, 2009, I'll donate 50 cents to Jonathan's Place, a local charity that specializes in taking care of abused and neglected children in Dallas and the surrounding areas. They also provide a foster and adoptive family program, which interests me. Mike and I have talked often about adopting one day. Anyway, I plan to take the check to them personally, so I can see how else I can donate my time. Kyle and I fly solo on the weekends since Mike started working his new hours, and I think visiting this incredible center would be a great way for my son and I to spend time together.
So, just as Kristin encouraged, tell me who you are in your comment. Your age, job, home town, family, etc. Just a little bit about you. Also, for fun, who was your favorite artist or band of 2009? (I'm looking for new music.)
You helped me out a lot this year, and I'm always so touched when you comment and/or email. It's like I have dozens of friends all around the country cheering me on. And people wonder why I blog.