Life can be Bittersweet

 2012 has come to a close....and what a year it has been. Bittersweet would be a good word to describe it.

As you may recall, my Mom had a heart attack on the day of her 80th birthday party in late February, it was a very distressing time for us all, but my Mom is incredibly resilient and with the help of her family and friends and of course her faith she was able to come through this stronger than ever.

Some of you might remember the blogs I wrote about it. Part 1 and Part 2.

Things moved forward quickly after that, lots of work....and lots of lacrosse. In June I asked the woman of my dreams to marry me and she said yes. I slipped that into a good June Blog.

Life could not be better. Until the big day. August 24th I had a heart attack. It really surprised me. And it really changed me. Patti wrote a blog while I was "off". Read it.

I was off work for 8 weeks....reading (and thinking). It was strange.....I really cannot describe it all here....but I knew for sure that I was grateful for all that I have.

I love my kids, Aimee, Stuart and Erin....they are phenomenal, incredibly different in every way and very special in their own way. I love them dearly. And Patti's girls Tristen and Jessica, fall right in line with that is well. Different people, but both incredible people, and I feel honoured to know them, and have them as part of my life.

My Mom, and my brothers and sisters are all great and were all so supportive when I needed them. My friends are the best in the world. Funny how friendships work. I can go weeks (or months) without seeing some friends...because life gets in the way...but the friendships are always as solid as a rock. I love that.

Patti defies description. She has changed my life in so many ways. All positive. All amazing. I am the luckiest guy I know.

My advice to all of you going forward is simple really.

• First of all and this is really important. Be grateful for what you have right now. Your friends and family, things that you actually have, be grateful and thankful.
• Be respectful to all. Smile and share good vibes, there is nothing like it in the world....it is infectious and it is awesome.
• Think positive thoughts Thoughts become things.

I will be back in the New Year to share my Sports thoughts (good or bad) - I look forward to your input.

Happy New Year to all. Have an amazing 2013.

Mike.