closing out the year

It's time to say good-bye to the year 2017.  I've had some really good times and a couple of sad ones, too.  I visited many national parks on my journeys across the United States.  I attended a family reunion and travelled throughout my home state of Minnesota with my sister.  I made contact with former teachers and thanked them for being a part of my early education.  I saw the total eclipse of the sun.  I helped a dear friend pack her things in anticipation of her cross country move.  I knit dozens of hat for kids and I gave them all away.  My family grew.  I added another grandchild to the clan of four.  I have a new sister-in-law.  And, I said good-bye to Aunt Ruth.  Almost 100.  I'm not sure what next year's journey will bring but that starts tomorrow.  Tonight is all about thanking God for everything, and everyone, in my little part of this great big wonderful world.