It’s not too late to think about what hopes, dreams and goals you have for 2009. So much can happen in a year, I find that in January I am always reflecting on the year past and looking forward to the adventures to come.

One fun way to capture this fleeting thoughtful moment is to write yourself a January letter. It should be sealed and not opened again until one year later.

I’ve done it a few times. “Dear Miranda of 2009, ” the one I wrote last January begins, “What a year!” I recorded some of the things I was doing, worried about and hoping for, as well as a few goals for the year ahead. This January it was amazing to pull out that old sealed envelope and read for the first time since written, my projections for 2008. I was pleased to see that I had indeed accomplished some of the goals that I had hoped to work on. It was also incredible to remember that time a year ago when all of the things that I am now living were just ideas, and hopeful expectations.

The year I have ahead of me right now is full to the brim of uncertainties. I’m expecting my first child, my husband is seeking a summer internship, we don’t know much about where we’ll be or what we’ll be doing at this time next year! My letter to myself is full of the reassurance and faith that I need right now, and will most likely have gained by January 2010.

I am thrilled to begin a new year and know that all of the things I would like to do are within my reach…even if that reach begins with just stretching for a pen and paper.