For me, most of 2016 was excellent. Last week I reflected that I was ready to emerge from the cocoon of contentment. I had an idea for my 2017 OLW, but I needed THE WORD. As I was working though my new physic routine, it came to me:
Some of my exercises are to strengthen muscles, but others are meant to stretch parts of me that have atrophied. I am supposed stretch far enough that I feel it, but not so far that I re-injure or cause new damage. And that is precisely what I want to do.
As an introvert, it can be uncomfortable to stretch beyond my comfort zone. But I rarely regret doing so. And the buoyed confidence that results is empowering. I have some events coming that will stretch me:
I am a Cybils Audiobook judge for the first time. I know how to evaluate text and I know what I like in audiobooks. I get to learn how to blend these skills.
In three weeks I will go to the ALA conference in Atlanta and begin my term on the 2018 Sibert Informational Book Award. My experience on the Morris Committee was excellent and a good introduction to ALA book award committees. This committee will require more work and more meetings, but I am excited to begin.
As I filled out my 2017 calendar earlier this week, I could see the year is laid out before me. I want to meet whatever challenges and opportunities the year brings with a cheerful and eager heart.
booksandbassets 
I love your Stretch graphic and the last line in your post: cheerful and eager heart. My word this year is expose…meaning I will emerge from my own introverted comfort zone. 🙂
I tis hard to leave that comfort zone. I almost chose RISE, but thought STRETCH was a more realistic option for me.
Stretch is a great word. It can be used in so many ways! Working on the book committee will be great! Have a great year!
Such a great word, but I must admit my first reaction was, “Ouch!” 😊 Your graphic is wonderful–putting it in the context of your words, I see your feet going many places and your arms reaching out to embrace people and plans. Happy New Year!
Stretch is a good word in all areas of life – physical, mental and emotional, personal and professional. Wishing you a wonderful year. May your OLW surprise you.
Stretch is a perfect word. How else can we grow if we don’t stretch a little bit. Stretching does warm one up for bigger and better things. May you continue to stretch and grow. Happy New Year.
Love this reminder that in order to grow we need to stretch. Congratulations on the being part of the book committee!
If you only build muscle without stretching you hurt yourself. Stretching is the ying of the yang. And I suspect you are so ready for a good stretch. Enjoy your discoveries in 2017!