2022 in Retrospect

2022 has been an interesting year. That's it, that's a look back on 2022.

But there's way more than that.

We have watched helplessly as interest rates have increased, while the cost of gas, food, and other basic goods have gone up in price. Daily, there are headlines warning us of a looming recession. I hope it is only that and not another financial crisis. The low turnouts at the Black Friday sales might ultimately be the clue we all needed. I think we might be finally choosing family over stuff.

Russia invaded Ukraine. No matter your nationality or political leaning, you have to recognize that nothing good can come of it. Whether you see it or not, there is likely some facet of your life that has been affected.

While we are on the topic of politics, let's look at the circus going on in Washington. I don't remember a time when there was so much division, with it only getting worse by the day. Meanwhile, our elected officials seem to accomplish less and less as their terms linger on.

For me, I've had the opportunity to grow into a new job that I've had for just under two years. My position in sales has allowed me the opportunity to go to school plays and be more available for my family, something I wouldn't trade for anything. 

For this school year, we decided to try an expirement. My three boys are going to a classical school where the attend classes two days a week and have school at home the rest of the week. It has been truly wonderful to see them have the extra time to pursue their own interests outside of school, and not spend time learning how to take a standardized test. They have been learning Latin and logic, and the Bible is part of their core curriculum. 

I have found a renewed inspiration for writing this year. I have begun to explore new subjects and new ideas as well as revisiting old projects that have been sitting idle for years. I can't wait for some of these old ideas to see a new light. 

But 2022 hasn't been all easy. There have been some transitions and changes in our routines as we navigate our new normal. As luck would have it, one of those transitions has been in our grocery shopping. We haven't been able to eat out as much the last few months, which means more time spent together at home around the dinner table as a family reflecting on our days. These changes haven't been all bad. More time at the dinner table is actually one of my favorite things. 

As 2022 closes out, we have more transitions in the works that will make 2023 bigger and better and all the more challenging. Our last act for 2022 will be a big move. Our family of five has been living on top of each other for the last few years and we finally decided that a bigger house is in order. We'll be closing out the year with a new home. 

2022 has been full of challenges. Locally, financially, politically, and globally, these challenges have been everywhere. My hope is that we can leave these challenges behind in 2022 and do some good in 2023. The path we're on currently can only lead to divisive behavior and it truly is a slippery slope if we continue. I hope to see us right the ship in the coming months. Hang on though, it is likely going to be a bumpy ride. As they say, "Hold on to your butts."