A glance back...and a look forward

I have to say that I'm pretty glad to have put 2010 to rest. It wasn't the greatest year for myself or my family. We've been through a lot, but have managed to come through it with heads held high, stronger than ever, and closer as a family. And, I will say that 2010 wasn't all bad. Despite all the lows, we had some amazing high's as well. I personally have made some amazing new friends. Friends who have been there for me through the lousy times and listened to me whine and moan and complain until I'm sure they were ready to scream, but never once made me feel as though I was imposing on their lives. And they were there with me to celebrate the amazing moments and to be happy for me as only real friends can be.

2010 was also the year that I reconnected with the best friend I have ever had. As friends all through school, we were as close as sisters, but managed to lose touch over the years since high school graduation. But this year, we "found" each other again, and renewed our friendship, and found that our friendship hadn't changed in all those years. I discovered the true meaning of the "words" BFF. At the point of the year when I needed a support system the most, she and her husband were there, in more ways than I can describe. I was in awe to realize that not only had I found my oldest and best friend, but in the process I had found a new and just as amazing friend in her husband. And in them both, Casey found pure, unconditional love and support, also at a time when she needed it the most. To the both of us, J and S are among the most valued treasures in our hearts. If you guys read this, we love you both more than you know.

And now looking forward to 2011, this is going to be a year of growth and change for me. This is going to be the year that I learn to believe that I deserve the good things in life. Not "things" really, but friends who love and accept me as I am. A life that is full and happy rather than lonely and empty. 2011 is the year when I begin to see myself as my friends see me. It's going to be the year that I finally learn to love and be proud of myself, and the year when I actually gain some confidence in myself.

Last year, I set a goal for myself to do a Project 365. This year I have decided not to put that pressure on myself. Instead, I'm challenging myself to take, or have taken, one photo of myself per week, and scrap it. Part of learning to love and accept myself includes my physical appearance, and I figure this challenge is a good start on that process. Now, just because I'm not taking a photo a day doesn't mean that I won't be taking lots of photos and documenting the every day. I'm just choosing not to pressure myself to take a "meaningful" photo on a daily basis.

2011 got off to a fabulous start. Casey and I spent the day with our dear friends J and S and their children. I cannot remember when I enjoyed a day more. It wasn't a perfect day, but it didn't have to be. We laughed and joked and just enjoyed each other's company. And part of what made it so great, was the knowledge that now that we're living only 2 hours apart, this can be a regular thing for us, and that makes Casey and I very happy. Here are a few photos of our New Year's Day.
Casey and Uncle J

Me and S

J and I making a pot holder. Mrs. Crass would be so proud, lol.

And really, the most adorable part of the day, S's new Boston Terrier, Mac. He really is the most precious thing, but trust me when I tell you that he's a weapon of mass destruction, lol

I hope that everyone (the few of you who read this anyway, lol) have a fantastic 2011. I know I'm going to ;)

Live,Laugh, Love
Life is so much better when you do.