Happy new year everyone!

I can’t believe it’s 2020, but I’m so glad it is! We made another trip around the sun. I’ll be honest; I went through every emotion in the gamut last year. I was angry, heartbroken, elated— and sometimes that was all in one day! But right now I’m focusing on one emotion: JOY. 

I know that sometimes it can feel like you’ll never be happy again; the weight of everything is crushing, there’s just so much that goes along with fighting ALS. But I promise you, there are little pockets of joy to be found everywhere. Some of my pockets of joy are huge, like when my mom visits for the weekend and we spend all day laughing (and napping). It means so much to me, and I have so much fun, even though she’ll tell you she didn’t do anything special. Some of them are very small, like when my baby cat curls up on my chest and purrs himself to sleep. I collect these moments and hold them in my heart. 

Another thing I’ve started in 2020 is a gratitude journal. I’ve found that recounting what I’m grateful for each day helps lift my spirits. Yes, things are difficult, but look at all that I have to be grateful for. Making myself stop and give thanks for the things and people in my life has definitely opened my eyes to some things. I don’t make resolutions, but I do try and better myself a little more every year. I always want to be the best version of myself. I’ll admit, I don't always make it; sometimes I’m the saddest version of myself, or the angriest. And that’s okay because I’m human and I don’t expect perfection from myself anymore. But I do expect gratitude now, and I expect myself to always be looking for those pockets of joy. 

I hope that the new year brings you so much joy and things to be grateful for. I know it sounds cheesy, but I truly am grateful for all of you. 

Love and support always, 

Bridget Noland  {501.650.5030 (call or text) | bridget@teamupworld.org}

Important Dates & Gatherings to Remember 

ALSIW Love Luncheon -  Thursday, February 13, 2020, 1PM - Sky Japanese Modern Restaurant 11525 Cantrell Rd.  Little Rock

ALS In Wonderland Presents Olympus - Saturday, May 30, 2020, 7PM - Pavilion In The Park 

8201 Cantrell Rd. Little Rock - We are very excited about our 9th annual Soiree’