Letter to 2008

Goodbye, 2008.

I am not sure what I thought of you. You were a pretty good year, I guess. I had the best semester of my upperclassman college career. I had such a romantic Valentine's day, and I got a boyfriend out of it. I graduated from college, got a great job, saw my sister get married. I got to spend the summer with my sisters at home for the last time, and I got to see the Packers win at Lambeau and make history (by defeating the worst team in nfl history. ouch). I learned to appreciate more types of music, and fell in love with Sergei Rachmaninov and Martin Sexton.

In getting a job, I lost a lot of freedom, and lost the ease of seeing friends whenever I want because of graduating. I gained 1,687 miles of distance between me and my sister. I lost a boyfriend, and I found a lot of pain... but I also lost 8 pounds. Not very ambitious, but hey--I need to be reminded of a few good losses. My best friend gained a fiancee, which means I might lose a best friend in 2009; but let's not be pessimistic.

There were so many wonderful memories that happened because of you, 2008. You made me a year older and I like to think I am a little bit wiser, too. I work with several people at DCMA that have such beautiful hearts and have such contentment in their own portion. I also work with several people that have no time for anything besides themselves and their own pride. I am glad I can watch people and learn from them. I love learning.

I have so many things going for me. The fact that I have a hard time being satisfied is preposterous. I have a pair of ice skates and roller blades that get used about once per year between the two. I have a roommate that I miss when I'm away for more than 4 hours. She shares the same addiction for LOST, and lets me crawl into bed with her at 6 am when I don't want to start teleworking. My job lets me telework. I work from home once a week and earn 4 hours of paid leave every two weeks. I got paid on Christmas. What is that all about, anyway?

I take the light rail to work everyday. I get to sit next to colorful people, too. I met a man that sings in and invited me to see the GLBTA One Voice Mixed Chorus. I even figured out what that meant on my own. I rent a duplex in South Minneapolis off of Lake Street. For those of you who don't know me, that is big.

I haven't thought much about how 2009 will be different. It's going to be different even if I put lots of thought into it, anyway. I'd like to be healthier, and to show a bit more control over my own life, which takes dedication... but other than that, I know God has plans for the coming year. 2009 is the year my little sister graduates from high school. wow.

So, 2008, here's to you. Thank you for ushering me into the real world and giving me just as many blessings as frustrations.

Hello 2009.