Reflections of 2010

Looking back on 2010, it was undoubtedly an incredible rollercoaster ride, with extreme peaks and lows. While the last year was filled with never-ending obstacles and a whole lot of stress, I believe that as a result, I am now in a happier and more settled place in my life. It was a year of much needed emotional healing and self-evaluation. Our move to Augusta was scary, sad, and exciting all at the same time, but overwhelmingly it provided me with a platform to start fresh and regain myself. There is no need to go into why I needed to heal, as it is all in the past and I do not wish to re-visit that dark place; suffice it to say that I allowed negativity to consume me, which ultimately led me to self-destruct (not in the literal sense).

I feel very blessed to have a husband who loves me and works hard to provide for me. This last year has certainly been a testament to the strength of our marriage. We endured the stress of quiting our jobs, moving to a different state, starting new jobs and moving again, all in the span of six months! While of course there were rocky times during that period, just as there would be for any couple, we came out of that experience as a united front. I can only hope that as we continue to grow as individuals over the years, we also continue to grow as husband and wife.

We are so lucky to have family that supported our decision to move. While they were not happy at first (neither was I), both of our families helped us along the way and continue to offer emotional support and visit us whenever they can. I actually think that us moving 270 miles away has strengthened our relationships with our families. Now the time we spend together is more precious and we in turn appreciate each other more. If only I could get my sister to visit me! I don't care how many times I talk to her on the phone or drive to Jacksonville to see her, it is never enough. No matter how adjusted I get to living 4.5 hours from my family, I desperately miss being only a couple miles down the road from my little sister.

(My baby sister, and also my best friend)

We also expanded on our family in November, and adopted my new little love, Cooper. I frequently get called the crazy cat lady, but I can't help loving my little ones Lily and Cooper. It's kind of funny how the "cat lady" name followed me from Jacksonville to Augusta, so I guess it has to be true. Lily has been diagnosed as "strong personality" by the vet, as well as had her file red marked a couple times by 2 different vets for poor behavior; the poor thing as such a bad rep! I love her nonetheless, and thought she would enjoy a playmate...boy was I wrong! We feared that Lily would beat up Cooper, since she has earned the name Devil Cat on more than one occassion, so we were very careful with making their introductions. Instead, little (now 4 lbs) Cooper spends his days planning his attacks on big sis' Lily, frequently jumping on her back and hanging from her back haunches while she tries to get away from him. He is the sweetest, most adorable little guy, and I am fairly obsessed with him.

It is safe to say that Augusta is now home. I am officially a Georgia resident (it only took 9 months), and Ryan is close to becoming a resident as well. We have established our new "hangouts" and made new friends as well. Our favorite new tradition is Friday nights at Poblanos (yes, it's a Mexican restaurant...if you know me then you're not shocked by this). This is where I can find some of my favorite people in Augusta, and definitely the best food and margaritas as well. We were lucky to be able to bring in the New Year with great new friends and a fun night - at least what I can remember of it! ;-)

For 2011, I look forward to further establishing roots in Augusta, to building on relationships with new friends and old friends, and most of all, I pray everyday that Ryan and I are able to start a family of our own soon. Good things to come in 2011, I just know it!