December 31, 2015 / 11:15 PM

Where did the time go? It seems like just yesterday we were welcoming 2015. Here we are … about to welcome 2016.

Amazing! 2-0-1-6!!!

I love how a new year holds a new hope and a new outlook. It’s a fresh start.

As much as I’m not thrilled another year has passed (that always means ANOTHER birthday … to be more precise … getting older). I have to say I’m excited to start a new year.

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Nearly all of 2015 I spent adjusting to a new MS diagnosis. Of all things to develop or contract, MS was not even a thought.

I have cursed it more times than I can count! Let’s just say, I’ve done A LOT of cursing!

I strive to pretend like it’s not there, but it is insidious. It’s changed my life in so many ways.

Walking is a huge challenge. For the most part I start out the day good but within a short period of time I walk as if I have been drinking for days.

Dancing. Dancing with my husband has always been one of my most treasured activities. I have danced since I was about 4. To have a partner who isn’t afraid to dance in public and actually enjoys was a dream come true. Since MS invaded my life, dancing has been placed high on the “hope to do again someday” shelf. We continue to try a slow 2-step or even a slow swing dance, but my balance is too disrupted. I long to glide across the dance floor to Lady Antebellum’s “Need You Now” with the love of my life.

Not that running was ever my “thing”, I couldn’t run even if I needed to. I sure hope a zombie apocalypse doesn’t happen any time soon. (The Walking Dead fans will understand.😉)

All my activities are planned to optimize my ability to get through them with minimal distress and discomfort.

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So, why am I looking forward to a new year?

It’s the new hope.

Not that my diagnosis has changed — it’s what it is.

I am making changes to make the quality of my life better. (I was so angry and frustrated before I couldn’t see past it.)

I’m taking control and becoming my own advocate. If I don’t, who will?

I am DETERMINED to build my strength. I am DETERMINED to regain control of my balance & movements so that my husband and I can once again glide across the dance floor.

I am DETERMINED to make 2016 the best year – MY best year!!!!

Happy New Year!