I don’t even know what to say. That’s right, all. Something has rendered me speechless. It’s shocking, I know. Almost as shocking as thinking about the meaning of today.
On December 21, 2012 I felt inspired. It was snowing, and mom and I were happy together, and I didn’t know which came first, her laughter or my joy. It fell from the sky that day. And I remember the moment like it was yesterday. It was like a light bulb turned on in my heart and I knew what I had to do. I had to share this magic with whomever would take it. Joy. From the ground up, it became my 365-day mission to share it with the world.
And that’s what I’ve done. Every day for a year, I have written about everything from existential philosophy to canine poop rituals. Because that’s life. It’s random and messy and beautiful and heart wrenching and hard and fabulous all at the same time. And I love every minute of it.
That doesn’t stop just because my one-year commitment has come to pass. Quite the opposite, in fact. I have grown, over the last year, to better understand myself, the world I live in, and how those two things interact and create the blessing that is life.
This knowledge has empowered me to take on a new mission that promises to be challenging in a whole new way. I want to continue sharing my unique perspective on joy. From the inside out, our understanding of joy in the Schmidt house is bound to change in the next year. Any day now, my little person is going to bring his or her joy into our world. If we thought we knew joy before, I think we have a whole other thing coming.
I know there will also be sleepless nights and dirty diapers and (gasp) a little less attention coming my way. And I may not be able to share these happenings quite as regularly as I have for the last year. But that’s life. From the ground up, the biggest lesson I’ve learned over the course of my blogging journey it is that this thing called life is certainly worth living to the fullest.
“Nobody gets to live life backward,” advice columnist Ann Landers suggested. “Look ahead, that is where your future lies.” The past has become my future and my future will soon become my present. From the inside out, joy is most definitely upon us. So today I turn the page. I start a new chapter. And I’m not going to lie – it’s one I can’t wait to read either.
Wiley's Wisdom 
What a soulful picture, Wyles Schmidt ~ quite the writer’s pose. You’ve earned it the hard way, every dog gone day, 365! I sure hope you got a special dinner this evening, the equivalent of filet mignon for your furever humans! I am so delighted you will continue to share your joy with us in between welcoming the newest member of the family, protective duty, teaching and counseling that is ahead of you. So delighted and proud for you, Wyles!
Dear HuntMode,
Soulful is my middle name. Didn’t you know? Kidding aside, I appreciate your kind words as always. We did a little low key celebration around here…dad said he was proud of mom, which made my cry (happy hormonal tears, of course) so that was almost gift in itself. And then you said it too! Ah, the joy overwhelms us today. You’re right in that I will indeed have my paws full with the new little person, complete with protective duty and lesson teaching. But that Mark Twain fellow was right that joy is best served shared. And so it is.
Lots of love,
Wyles
Wyles, I have a Mark Twain story to share… He checked into a hotel and was asked to sign the register. The guest before him had signed, “Lord Byron and valet.” Mark Twain wrote, “Mark Twain and valise.” Grin. I think your Mom would enjoy this one! Love and Merry Christmas to the Schmidt Family from the HuntModes!
You’re indeed correct that mom got a kick out of Mr. Twain and his beloved valise. I know he’s known for his stories, but I love him for his wit. Lots of love and all things holiday to the HuntModes!
🙂 Wyles
You are a real rock. Not only for your family but to the whole Doggy(blogging) world. May God bless and keep you during the festive season! Paws up and LOL
My goodness, those are big words dear one. Thank you. You’ve been along with me for so much of the journey, so I appreciate you hanging on to see what the next chapter brings. 😉
Lots of love,
Wiles
🙂
All the best to your forever mum and the future little person. My felines send the best wishes of the season and may it be filled with food falling from the table.
I LOVE this time of year…and while mostly it is the joy that is contagious, your felines are on to something with those wishes for food to fall off the table. Don’t worry, dear friends, I know who to sit by for the goods. 😉
New is good! Change is great! The future is filled with wonder. Thanks for taking us along for the ride. xoxo
Love and licks,
Cupcake
No problem, dear Cupcake. You’re one of my most favorite passengers. 😉
Lots of love,
Wiles
It is amazing how through writing about all different things you do get to know yourself better. So glad you enjoy it so much you want to go on. Even if you don’t make it every day, or even onece a week, whenever you write something I’ll be there reading about your family and yourself and the joy you bring to everyone.
Much love and all the best for the arrival of the little person.
Big hug to you Wiley and enjoy the new chapter in your life!
High Paw!
I’m not going to lie – if not for people like you, it wouldn’t be nearly as exciting. I would have no idea whether my joy was reaching anyone, which…well….wouldn’t be a joyful thing.
Thank you for your ongoing support, but even more so for your friendship! Take care, dear one!
🙂 Wiles
I can’t wait too, Wiley. All my best wishes to you and your family :o)
Thank you dear brother.
We’ve loved reading your posts!
Aw….your words inspire me to continue. Just thought you should know. 😉
I will start a petition to get you back if you do ;0)
Awwwwwww…this kind of made my day
Good, you make my day so often I finally feel as if I have given something back!! x
Oh my goodness yes…you definitely give back with every comment.
Lots of love,
Wiles
Yay! I was hoping that you would continue to blog dear Wiley. We understand that you may not blog as regularly due to Mom needing extra help from you, but I really enjoy your perspective on the world and what’s important. Sort of like a touchstone to remind us about the good things in life. Congratulations on your blogging anniversary!!!
Dear Sandy,
I’m touched by your reference to my words being a touchstone to remind folks about the good things in life. That has, and continues to be, my ultimate goal in all things, but especially with this blog. Thank you for your kind words, as always!
Lots of love,
Wiles
Reblogged this on Wiley's Wisdom and commented:
“Nobody gets to live life backward.” -Ann Landers