Maybe it is irony , maybe just the wine, either way the first entry into this “who knows what it will become” journey of mine begins twelve minutes past Friday, April 13^th…a day that won’t soon be forgotten in my life…

Tonight was a night of reflection, fellowship, advice, well wishes, laughs, and of course, tears. Like so many times before over the course of the past 30 years it was an event that closes one chapter and begins an entirely new book. With new, it brings along with it doubt, uncertainty, and hesitation on the “dark side,” while  excitement, anticipation and the prospect of prosperity when viewed by an optimist such as myself balances out the other side of the force (yes, total and utter  Star Wars Geek).

When looking back on goodbyes, I need to remember that it will create a new sense of hello. All new opportunities can ensue for all of these relationships to continue to grow in a completely new realm of life! Equally importantly, goodbyes allow for the opportunity to begin a brand new journey in ways not possible without the commitment to the end.

As hard as it might seem in the moment, commit yourself to movement forward. Always.

My sincerest gratitude to Dove Canyon, my second home and family for the past 3 years. You have given me more gifts than I could possibly begin to enumerate…and for tonight’s support, thank you to Evelyn and Tom Grass, John and MaryBeth Kosmenko, Jim and Janet Glynn, Joanie and Bill Clark, Jen and Ryan Valley,  Joe and Chrissy Castellano, Randy Born, Mike Friedman, Kyle and Ginny Price,  Carolyn and Kenny Tate, Rose and Rene Goupillaud, John and Jane Barton,  Mel and Melinda Cohen, Mike Fikany, Glen Hook, Joe DiPrima and of course, Russell- my mentor, leader, and most importantly friend.