So long, 2011!

Hey, 2011. Sit down, we need to talk. We don’t like to complain, but all in all, I think the sister outlaws are really ready to say goodbye to you.

And no, it’s not a case of “it’s not you, it’s us” actually. It’s you. We’re ready to see you off and welcome a new fresh year into our lives, thank you very much. Now, don’t be like that – there’s no room for regrets!  No sulking now 2011. Just listen...

Okay, okay, calm down! Yes, we know you have delivered some success – new products for re-sew-cool including scarf kits and coin purses,a new bag-tag and a new brooch design with the queen stamp. Yes! New stockists too were very welcome! Thanks very much!

And okay, yes, you’re right! The hottie challenge was wonderful to be part of for Lynne and me, engendering a strong sense of community. Yes, I know, we made some special new friends through blogtoberfest too. Oh, 2011, I know you gave us a feature in the Herald Sun Home magazine. Oh and we’re not ungrateful. No not at all!

But let’s get real here, 2011. On a personal level, all three of us sister outlaws, Lynne, Leanne and I, have suffered during our time with you. Lovely kind hearted Lynne offered help to a stranger, only to be the victim of a life threatening attack from that stranger. What can compensate for that? For such a nightmare? For such betrayal and terrible injury? And it’s not even over yet because she still has to navigate through a legal system that is not necessarily a justice system and still has much healing to do. And our steady sister outlaw Leanne? She has suffered too. Her left vocal chord has become paralysed. She has lost her voice! She now struggles with a strain when communicating, all day every day. To lose the sound of your voice? It’s like losing part of who you are. It is a disability now that affects her work, her parenting, her relationships and her social life. And the prospects don’t look that good for it ever to return.  What have you got to say about that, 2011? And yes, I know I harp on about it a bit, but I lost my Mum. My talented, caring, stoic, brave, beautiful Mum.  A grief that hits me every day.

Oh 2011, no excuses, you delivered some hard blows and really, do you blame us if we feel a little bit battered and sore from the 365 days spent with you? Sure, give us your cliches! Tell us what doesn’t kill us, makes us stronger. Sure! We know that others are suffering more than us! But still, 2011, we won’t be clinging to you as you leave. We’re holding the door open for you now. Out you go. No don’t look back, make room for 2012 please. A year that already offers us an extra day! 366! And a transit of Venus! We’ll be smiling and waving goodbye to you, 2011 and welcoming 2012 with open arms and hearts full of hope. Bring on the New Year, we say! And a Happy New Year to you all!