Happy New Year! After celebrating the first few days of 2011 with dear friends and family, I’ve found myself reflecting on the year that passed and wondering about the year to come. You see, last January as 2010 began, I knew exactly what was in store for me: I figured I’d pretty much spend the entire year preparing for the release of my first book, Previvors, in October.

And it turns out, I did.

The first six months of the 2010 were spent working on revises, helping come up with an appropriate title, securing endorsements, and fact-checking the book from start to finish. The second six months were spent spreading the word about the book as much as possible. And, in between all the work, I tried to carve out a semblance of a balanced life (like that exists), by planning date nights with my husband, spending as much quality time with my children as possible, and even having an occasional lunch with friends.

I look back at 2010, and I know it’s a year I will never forget. But as I look forward to 2011, I have to admit I’m a little anxious.

Last year at this time, I knew what to expect. But now, I really have no idea what this new year will have in store. Sure, I have some book ideas brewing, some writing assignments in the works. And, of course, I will continue speaking publicly about breast cancer risk and Previvors. However, I feel like I have a clean slate and it’s up to me to figure out what my future will hold.

Scary? Yes. But it’s also thrilling to think that one year from now I’ll be looking back, reflecting on another year gone by. Each new year brings so many promises. And I believe that, to some extent, we’re all in control of which of those promises are fulfilled. I hope to make the next 12 months just as exciting and memorable as the last.

I wish everyone a happy and healthy 2011!!