Where I'm At

When did it become 2010? (By the way, we're all going to get on board for calling it twenty-ten, right? I'm worn out from saying "two thousand" for the last 10 years.)

Anyway...this past decade has been huge. I experienced most of high school, all of college, being a flight attendant, going through Master's Commission, working at an elementary school, and returning to school to be an EMT during the '00's. All the while, I went through all of my legitimate adult relationships, had my heart broken (eh, twice), and possibly broke a heart or two (though you'd have to ask them about the past statuses of said hearts).

This past year alone was crazy. I chalk it up to a big learning experience. I started the year by dating a guy who can't be described as anything less than a jerk (don't worry, he'll never read this, and if he does, well, hey, this isn't new information). I didn't listen to my intuition at first, and as a result, learned my first big lesson for the year. Two thousand nine found me standing up for myself and no longer putting up with someone else's crap (yes, I just described someone's life issues and baggage as crap...we all have it). I have been on more first dates this past year than the last 10 years combined. And I have been on zero second dates (aside from aforementioned jerk). There are a plethora of reasons for that, but that's not important.

2009 also found me changing jobs, moving home with my parents, and going back to school. It has been an incredibly humbling experience. I spent the years after college living by myself (as well as 100% supporting myself) to suddenly be in a place where money is not a luxury. I can't go get that monthly massage or that weekly (read: daily) latte. I just can't. I have a car payment. I have health insurance. But despite my seeming financial woes, it has been an incredibly joyful 6 months. I got to watch my little brother play all but 1 of his varsity football games. I led a high school small group from the church that I grew up in and that shaped me.
I had the best Christmas I've had in a very long time...not because of the presents, but because I was in a house full of decorations, I made Christmas cookies, and I got to spend every waking moment with my family. I traded some financial security for many more less tangible pleasures.

I am a walking blender of emotions. Catch me on the wrong day and all you'll hear is how frustrated I am. But I was quickly reminded this past week by a friend that I am very blessed.

And that's truth. That's truth that leads me into twenty-ten with a high head and big expectations. I'll make all the basketball games I can physically be at before my little brother graduates and moves off to college. I'll spend my free evening hanging out with my family, watching a movie, or just playing cards. And I'll continue to avoid that 2nd date as long as it doesn't feel right. 2010 is about the fulfillment of life, not the rush or busy-ness or lack of resources. It's about living to my greatest potential. :)

Good luck. Much love.