Reflections and Anticipations

What a year.

I'm not the kind of person who writes lists and catalogues her accomplishments. But every once in a while, I sit back and count my blessings. And on this, the last day of 2008, I'm also counting my memories of the year.

I've already blogged about the fact that 2008 became the most-documented year of my life, and that I am moving forward in learning and trying new digital technologies. So I won't go into detail about that right now. But it was a significant year. This blog is one example of that.

Here are a few other highlights in the memory department:

1. My sister Anne successfully made it through open-heart valve-replacement surgery and is moving forward in starting the next chapter of her life.

There were so many issues tied up with this, that it's hard to mention them all. But since we were born, (we're twins) we have all known Anne had a valve that didn't work normally. What a miracle that not only did she get the surgery in the nick of time, but that it was performed by the head of cardio-thoracic surgery at Swedish Hospital, AND that it was all paid for by Swedish Charity funds, since Anne had no health insurance. Much to be thankful about.

2. I renewed my relationship and friendship with my sister Linda, who went through huge transitions in order to be in Seattle for Anne's recovery.

I think we were both extremely nervous about this and both took steps toward each other and healing the rift. I enjoyed having her stay in my home when Anne was able to move back to her apartment, and really miss her, now that she is beginning the next chapter of
her life in New York City.

3. My co-anchor of nearly 5 years moved on to his next chapter, writing a book. That meant he

gave up his anchor chair and left KOMO. But it was more than that. He left a hole that may or may not be filled again.

4. I took a wonderful vacation to Kauai with my good friend, Miss Terry Brown. You may also know her as Terry Travis, anchor at KPAM in Portland and former reporter at KOMO 1000 Newsradio. She is a great woman, a dream to travel with and a wonderful champion of me, and many, many other people. If you missed our adventures, here is our farewell from the island:

6. I got to interview my musical hero, Jason Mraz! And, since Herb Weisbaum was my co-anchor that day, and since he had to be out of the studio at the time, it was a solo interview. It was wonderful. Colleen O'Brien, our editor, took a video of the interview. Here it is on YouTube:

It has garnered the most hits of any of my posts so far on YouTube, receiving more than 33-thousand hits. After the interview, he hung out, clutched my crystal that I bring into the studio, and took photos. He was very nice.

7. I have finally (knock wood) healed the infection/swelling of my left leg. It has been an issue since 2003, when a series of mosquito bites became inflamed, and just never healed. Imagine having a yukky open wound for 5 years. But visits to a naturopath, an infectious disease specialist, and a dermatologist finally figured out what's going on. Thank God!

8. I also got a handle on an extreme vitamin B deficiency, a vitamin D deficiency and an under-active thyroid. So, I've gone from being drug-free, to taking a number of supplements. But I am feeling better.

9. I started taking dance classes again. I love dancing, and have only been dancing at workshops and nighttime dances. The classes free me up to be myself more, instead of trying to be the perfect partner. I'll keep doing this in 2009.

10. I got much more involved in my church, The Center for Spiritual Living. While I have not yet become a member, I volunteer at the registration desk and have also lent my voice to several commercials and even to the telephone answering system. I'm making a few friends there as well. This is the most involved I have ever been in a church, and I find I really look forward to Sunday services.

11. This was a good year for freelance voiceover work.

Even though 2-year campaign with the University of Washington Endowment campaign came to an end, they still needed me for several more spots. I also had a few jobs from the "Voice-123" site, and did some TV imaging for a station in Upstate New York. In addition, I continue my regular weekly gig with United Broadcasting Sales.

But the most fun I had was in early March, when Microsoft asked me to voice some spots with my old radio partner, Pat Cashman. It was such a blast to work with him again, and I loved the professional session, with a director, writer, engineer, compliance guy from Microsoft and an assistant, in addition to Pat and me in the voice booth. I love this kind of work.
It also allowed me to keep ahead of the bills and take a couple of trips.

12. I got to travel to Montreal. What a wonderful trip. I blogged about it every day, so just click on the bottom of the next 2 pages to get to the posts if you want to see them. Lots of wonderful memories.

And while there are many other highlights, these are the top 12. And I would be remiss in ignoring the importance of you, my readers. You have supported me with your comments and friendship, and I thank you for your continued readership.

Here's to a loving, prosperous, joyful, fun, healthy 2009.

And Happy New Year to You!