Who doesn’t appreciate a reason to celebrate? However, it’s essential to recognize that a celebration becomes all the more fulfilling after putting in significant effort and determination; the more challenging the endeavor, the more rewarding the success. As we raise our glasses to mark our 10th anniversary, the Good Life Family team and I reflect on many achievements. We’ve ventured beyond our comfort zones in all aspects of life, and, as Mark Twain wisely noted, “Why not go out on a limb? Isn’t that where the fruit is?” I can honestly say that I have never dedicated as much time and energy (in a professional context) to anything as I have to Good Life Family and GoodLifeFamilyMag.com. I’ve poured my heart, mind, and resources into transforming GLF into a PUBLICATION WITH A PURPOSE. We’ve grown, we’ve gained momentum, and we’re making an impact.
In my personal life, my husband and I recently marked 27 years of marriage. David would undoubtedly describe it as sheer bliss (that’s one of the many reasons I cherish him!), but we both recognize that maintaining a partnership takes effort. Marriage resembles a roller coaster, filled with twists and turns, highs and lows; yet at the conclusion of the ride, you possess memories that only the two of you share. That’s some invaluable bubbly… let’s continue maturing gracefully!
As a mother, the greatest celebration comes from the health and happiness of my adult children: Bryce, 25; our new daughter-in-law Daria, whom we’ve recently embraced; Jaxie, 24; and Lindsey, 22. Each of them has embarked on their own paths and are flourishing in their journeys. While I did exchange time with them to pursue the GLF venture (juggling family and work is a constant struggle for many of us, and a recurring theme in our issues), the benefit of that choice is that my children are observing firsthand the dedication involved in building something worth celebrating. In fact, they consistently find ways to lend a hand or support me. I’m thankful for their encouragement and sacrifices, as well as for granting me the most fulfilling title in existence: mom.
As a daughter, I’m reminded that being a part of the “Sandwich Generation”—those of us caught between raising children and caring for aging parents—poses both challenges and rewards, and that every single day deserves recognition.
Finally, no celebration is truly complete without my incredible friends. We celebrate the high points (oh, do we!), but more importantly, we stand by each other through the low moments. True friendships are constructed one brick at a time and strengthened by the test of time.
I’ll raise a toast to all of that!
Wishing you a year overflowing with health, happiness, love, peace, and plenty of “Cheers”!
Sheryl Lilly Pidgeon
Publisher | Editor-in-Chief
GoodLifeFamilyMag.com
