Happy New Year: End of the year message of hope for 2021 from Paws For Reaction

 The end is coming: A New Year's message of overcoming 2020 

The world is letting out a collective sigh of relief as 2020 comes to a close. We have some small glimmers of hope lighting up the horizon. Several vaccines have been created- thank you, scientists! There are fewer unknowns about the virus and how it spreads. We are better prepared to deal with lockdowns, second waves, and changes to protocols. There is awareness being raised about being kind, shopping local, and supporting the needy. The pandemic that separated and isolated us could end up bringing us closer than ever. The end of the year doesn't flip a switch but it may bring forth enough change to get the lights back on. 

For many, 2020 will be remembered as the year of the Covid-19 pandemic. For me, the most memorable moment and biggest hardship of the year were losing Keira. I've been blessed to have two sweet and joyful dogs who have shown me unconditional love and much-needed affection. For Hazel and I, the loss of Keira left a giant hole in our family. It's a pain I suffer every day. I love my dogs more than I love most people. Keira had 13 years of life and spent more than half of them with me. I'm the luckiest girl in the world. I've been fortunate to have the support of my mum and my aunt, both of whom lost their own dogs this year. It's been a difficult year for us, but together we are stronger. They are my best support system, my biggest fans, and my best friends. 

Despite the pandemic and losing my sweet girl Keira, this year has been a monumental one for me and Paws For Reaction. I took a big step forward. I took risks and I was met head-on with challenges, but I persevered. I started a new job and moved to a new city at the same time the reality of the pandemic set in. I was trying to move forward during a time when the world wanted me to stand still. 2020 was my year to 'overcome.' 

The best of 2020

Paws For Reaction made amazing connections with animal and wildlife rescues, like-minded guest bloggers, and amazing folks in the veterinary and animal care industry. These people share my core values and are always striving to be a positive impact on their community. I'm very lucky to have collaborated with them. This was just the beginning, there is more to come in 2021!

I made it to 100 acts of leadership as a member of the Climate Reality Project Leadership Corps. For me, this is a huge achievement in my message about climate action. I often tell people no change or sacrifice in the name of climate action is too small an act because combined, they make a huge impact. All of my small acts of leadership have added up to over 100 acts. Never wonder if one person or one small act can make an impact- it can. 

I took a big step forward in my career that allowed me to express my creativity, have job satisfaction, challenge myself every day, and see a future for my career beyond the next five years. I'm working with a fantastic new team. I have the opportunity to learn about feline veterinary medicine from leading doctors in the industry and be a part of a practice management team that encourages my growth. 

I'm disappointed that the pandemic prevented me from enjoying one of my favourite volunteer roles: being a Girl Guides of Canada leader. On the flip side, I was asked to be a social media ambassador for Ontario Nature, a volunteer opportunity I can do safely from home. I've learned so much about the environmental initiatives and government legislation in my province. I'm grateful I found another way to support wildlife and the environment, right here at home. 

My year in review

Values are what makes the person. Values impact every decision I make in all aspects of my life; friendship, family, work, love, and community. This year I've had to make some tough decisions in order to stick to my core values and meet my goals. One was moving to Ottawa. While this city has always held my heart, I miss my family who lives in the Ottawa Valley. I've had to make a tough decision to cut toxic people from my life, regardless of how much I loved them, who they are, or how they're related to me. I've had to stick up for myself, and my values. Going into 2021 I will ask myself: What is my brand? What are my values? How do I want to be remembered? As we work toward our future, we simultaneously write our history. I'll surround myself with people who lift me up, not pull me down. Who move me forward, not push me back. Who bring out my best qualities and share the same values. 2021 will be my year of 'growth', and I can't wait for all of you to come along for the ride.

Best entertainment of 2020

Were you bored this year? I had my moments! This year was not without some fantastic creations from the artistic world. Just for fun, here is a list of some of the music, movies, and books that entertained me during this isolated year.

Top 3 books of 2020

Sin Eater by Megan Campisi

My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell

One by One by Ruth Ware

Top 3 movies of 2020

Hillbilly Elegy 

Irresistible 

Antebellum

Top 3 TV shows of 2020

The Queen's Gambit

The Crown (Season 4)

I'll Be Gone in The Dark

Top 3 albums of 2020

Fetch the Bolt Cutters by Fiona Apple

folklore by Taylor Swift

evermore by Taylor Swift

In 2020 I was positive that I was going to get the life that I really wanted, but instead, this year reminded me to be grateful for the life I have. Above all else, it showed me the value of kindness. No one will talk about your education or your money or your perfect hair at your funeral. They'll talk about how you made them feel. How you treat people says everything about who you are. Happy New Year from Hazel and I! Thank you for reading Paws For Reaction, and see you next year!