New Year's Eve has always been very special for my sweet soldier and I. We met on New Year's Eve 2000, and we rekindled our relationship on New Year's Eve 2001.  So every December 31st that we are together, we pull out the toasting flutes and toast to all that we hold dear.

By the time you read this, we will have said, "See you soon," one more time. These two weeks have come and gone quickly, but we have been so fortunate to have had opportunity to spend this time together and make some amazing memories for our family.

2013 is going to be a great year! I declare it to be so! But as you sit down to reflect on 2012 and think ahead to 2013, make sure that you give yourself all the credit you are due.

I may not be exactly where I want to be in terms of weight or money management, but I am not where I was. I have done my best during 2012 to raise my kids as a single parent. I have done my best to keep my family connected over thousands of miles. I have done my best to be the best friend I know how to be and that is all I can do.

My best is good enough, and my best will be good enough in 2013!

I hope that 2013 brings you blessings beyond measure and I thank you for continuing on this journey with me. As my training partner says, "Always run the downhill! That is where you make up for time lost on the uphill."

Keep running my sweet friends. The finish line is just around the corner!

Strength and Courage ... sby