Endings, Beginnings, and Kindness ‘n Stuff

Simply put, 2016 was quite a year.  My take on the election shock, deaths of legends, and other losses and huge changes would add little to what’s been so eloquently said.  So below are reflections on my own moments, thoughts, and truths.My mother-in-law, Doris Zich, the star of my December 7 blog, died December 24 at age 99. She was a spirited, gracious woman, grateful for all she had.  I am grateful I got to know her and spend time with her and grateful I can love and be loved by her son.Our favorite almost-1-year-old girl, born at the beginning of 2016, slept in a crib in our room last week. Early mornings listening to her sounds, holding her, seeing her smile, and reading ‘The King’ over and over as she helped turn pages just as her mother once did fills me up more than I can put into words. So does taking her 4-year-old brother on the F-train, the 14th Street double bus, and throughout our lobby on the building luggage rack. Every moment with them and their wonderful, loving parents are My Tops.The publication of ‘Finding Mr. Rightstein’ has been terrific.  The launch with spring and fall signings, readings, talks, interviews, and workshops were well-attended and great.  Tons of fun for me.  After this holiday hiatus, I’ll be doing more, which I started listing under ‘events’ on my website: www.nancykelton.com A big thanks for the support of my friends and family who got the word out, bought multiple copies, attended multiple events, and arranged readings and my coming to your book clubs.Ann Lamott wrote that Kindness bats last.  I’ll drink to that.  Let’s add Showing Up. Showing up quietly and lovingly.  Thank you to all my “Show-er Uppers.” Kindness, Showing Up, a Sense of Humor, a Generosity of Spirit, Gratitude, and Love: I raise my glass to Doris Zich, my parents, Jonathan, my beautiful children, grandchildren, stepchildren, and to you all.Deepak Chopra or Wayne Dyer said that there’s nothing out there.  That the way we perceive the world is how we feel inside. I’ll attribute it to ‘Deep.’May you all feel peaceful inside.  May 2017 bring you peace and joy!Love 'n Stuff,Nancy