Wait, what?  2024 is almost over already?  It seems like it was just a month ago that we wrote the 2023 Year in Review.  And it has been a year of transitions.

Topping the list is Dylan’s transition from Centaurus High School graduate to freshman at … (wait for it) … ☘️☘️☘️ the University of Notre Dame ☘️☘️☘️!!!  Words cannot express how proud we are of him, and how excited we are for his next four years.  He is planning to study Civil Engineering, is quickly learning to appreciate (and watch) college football (duh), and has been embraced by the ND Ultimate team (team name is “Papal Rage”, which is just so hilarious).  We’ve already visited campus twice (dropping him off, and of course, returning to watch the Irish take down Louisville in September) … and we are beyond excited about getting in on the new College Football Playoff action by attending a playoff game!

Prior to our joining the ranks of Empty Nesterhood, we did take a graduation celebration trip to Belize for some snorkeling, boating and a bucket list cave tour at the ATM Cave.  And, we enjoyed toasting to (and with) Dylan with celebratory tropical drinks (since the legal drinking age in Belize is 18).  Welcome to adulthood, kid.

Once Dylan was off to school, we (Jim & Kirsten) managed to sneak in a few short getaways – one to Taos, New Mexico for a balloon festival with our friends AJ and Jody Steger, and once to Disneyland for Kirsten’s birthday.  It was nice to catch up with Kirsten’s cousins Matt & Annie and Uncle Dennis while we were there.

On the work front, Jim decided to make the leap and start his own company (wait, what?).  In most years this would headline the Gazette, but not this year!  He officially became a solopreneur in May, and LOVES being his own boss, even as he navigates the challenges of launching a business.  If you’re interested in learning more about NoCo Community AdSpace, check out the website.

As we transitioned from summer to fall, Kirsten’s mom’s (Ann) health took a significant downturn, and we have had to navigate several hospital visits and stretches of rehab.  We’re grateful she was able to attend both Dylan’s and our nephew Aidan’s graduation ceremonies, but we have reached the point where she will transition to a new home with increased care and supervision.  It has been a difficult journey, but as of December, Ann will be in a new home in North Boulder – and we’re hopeful that the additional attention will keep her comfortable. We're very thankful that Jim's mom (Mary Ann) is still doing great, and we enjoy spending time with Missy and Bill when they're in town.

The theme for our 2024 could be summarized as one of transitions … and while they can be exciting and filled with hope and joy, it also reminds us that we only live once and that we should relish those moments that make life worth living.

Happy Holidays, and thanks for reading!

Peace and love, Jim (and Kirsten and Dylan)