As we are rapidly approaching the new year, this begins a time where we begin to look back at the past year and remember what we are thankful for, but we also begin to make plans for the coming year. 

Many times, these plans or resolutions begin as good intentions, but quickly fall by the wayside. 

I know I have been guilty of making resolutions that there isn’t a realistic way for me to fulfill.

As I look back on 2019, I am thankful for many things. 

Our family officially welcomed my youngest son Kayden as his adoption was finalized in December. 

Somehow, we experienced no major illnesses or injuries in the last twelve months. That’s saying something. 

I was also blessed to be a part of many projects within the community that focused on helping those in need and also making our community a better place to live. 

Wrapping up the year by being named Citizen of the Year was a complete shock and humbling experience. 

All in all, 2019 was a great year for our family and many memories were made that I will never forget.

As we look to 2020, my hopes and goals are simple. I wish to focus on spending more time with my kids. While this may also include bringing them to all the volunteer events I can’t say ‘no’ to; the result will be the same. They are growing fast and my time with them, in the grand scheme of things, is limited.

I also wish to continue being active in improving our city. 

Great things are happening in our town, but it will take all of us working together to make Orange the best it can be.

Finally, I want to try to make a bigger impact in the lives of others outside of our community as well. 

At this moment I am not sure how I will accomplish that, but I feel it is a reasonable goal.

As we make our ways through the holidays, I urge you to take time to stop and think back on everything we have to be thankful for. There are things that go wrong in our lives on a daily basis, but if we choose to focus on the things that go right, it will totally change your perspective.

Best wishes for a safe and prosperous Christmas season and a Happy New Year!

 

Chris Kovatch is a resident of Orange County. You can reach him at news@orangeleader.com