2011 reflections.

20 Questions for a New Year’s Eve Reflection

1. What was the single best thing that happened this past year?

That’s easy.  I fell in love with an amazing man.   (He proposed, too!)

2. What was the single most challenging thing that happened?

I graduated with my Masters this year, which was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done.  I’ve also struggled a bit in my job.  I’ve always used my job as my identity, so when I struggled, it rocked my world a bit.

3. What was an unexpected joy this past year?

Really getting to know Bear’s family and friends.  They’re wonderful people, and my life is richer because of them. 

4. What was an unexpected obstacle?

TIME!  I always said that I didn’t have time for a boyfriend, and so once Bear and I started dating, that became evident.  It was an adjustment, but I don’t regret a second of it.  Honestly, the greatest thing I sacrificed for Bear?  Television watching- I used to have a lot of “shows”.   Now, I have time with him instead.  I got the better deal, I do believe!

5. Pick three words to describe 2011.

Love, blessings, growth

6. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe your 2011 (don’t ask them; guess based on how you think your spouse sees you).

challenging, blessed, happy

7. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe their 2011 (again, without asking).

Well, he’s not a spouse, but a fiance’, but I’ll still participate.

love, growth, happiness

8. What were the best books you read this year?

I didn’t read near as much this year as I did in 2010, mainly because I got burnt out on reading preparing for Orals. My favorite books I read this year were: From Head to Feet (a devo for teenage girls), Mockingjay, and Sisterhood Everlasting.

9. With whom were your most valuable relationships?

Bear obviously became a very important person in my life.  He went from being a guy I’ve been dating for three weeks to the man I’m going to marry.  The more time we spend together, the more sure I am of us and our future.  I can’t wait to marry the man of my dreams.

10. What was your biggest personal change from January to December of this past year?

Last year I feel like I was getting to a point where I was becoming secure in who I was, and this year just cemented that.  I’ve truly figured out who I am, and discovered that I’m pretty happy with my imperfect self.

11. In what way(s) did you grow emotionally?

I’ve been single a LONG time, so it’s been an adjustment to having a relationship and having to think of another person, but I think it’s gone quite well considering.  

12. In what way(s) did you grow spiritually?

I staffed a Cursillo in November, and it was an amazing experience. God just poured his love over me all weekend, and I really grew from the experience.

13. In what way(s) did you grow physically?

My New Year’s Resolution was to do a 5K a month.  Although I didn’t make the goal (I did 10), I am still so proud of what I DID do.  I was in AMAZING shape up until August.  Now I just have to get back to where I was then!

14. In what way(s) did you grow in your relationships with others?

15. What was the most enjoyable part of your work (both professionally and at home)?

My team.  Our sixth grade team has been in a constant flux of change with a new team member every year for five years straight.  Having a second year as a team really cemented our friendship and gave a new sense of unity and camaraderie that I’ve really enjoyed. 

16. What was the most challenging part of your work (both professionally and at home)?

Not meeting expectations.

17. What was your single biggest time waster in your life this past year?

Pinterest and facebook.    I have done quite a few projects and recipes thanks to Pinterest, though.

18. What was the best way you used your time this past year?

When I was with the people I love.

19. What was biggest thing you learned this past year?

I’m never going to be perfect, but I can still be happy and blessed in my imperfections.

20. Create a phrase or statement that describes 2011 for you.

It’s better than ever, but the best is yet to come…

2010 Reflection…

So, I haven’t written much else this year, but here’s the 2010 reflection all the same!

This NYE reflection comes from simplemom.  There’s 20 total questions, but I picked the ones that related best to me.

1. What was the single best thing that happened this past year?

I don’t think there was one single thing.  Just lots and lots of “Holy crap, I’m blessed!” moments.

2. What was the single most challenging thing that happened?

Honestly?  Turning 29 was HARD.  I felt like I should have been/done/accomplished/seen/had more by 29 than I was/is.  It’s fine now, but the time right before my birthday was quite a soul-searching time for me.

3. What was an unexpected joy this past year?

Getting a roommate.  It’s been such a blessing for me, both financially and emotionally. I wasn’t sure if I was going to like living with someone after living alone for so long, but I’ve loved it.  Jinni’s a fantastic roommate, and I’m blessed to have her in my life.

4. What was an unexpected obstacle?

My body.  I had a lot more aches and pains and health-related issues this year.  Nothing horrible, just proof that I’m not a teenager anymore,and that my body needs to be taken better care of!   I did a better job of that this fall, but then I still had some stress-related issues to end the year.

I also made some grown-up decisions this year, where I had to make some difficult decisions for both me and some of the people that matter the most to me.   It wasn’t easy, but I know I’m a better person for the decisions I made, and I , after some time and space, we’re all stronger because of it.

5. Pick three words to describe 2010.

stretching, creative, surprising

6. What were the best books you read this year?

I read A LOT of books this year.  21 since school started, 22 over the summer.  It’s been a fun challenge to keep up with my students, and I’ve loved the books I’ve read.  My favorites have been the Hunger Games series, Harry Potter series (yes- I’m behind the times!), the Lightning Thief series, and the Gallagher Girls series.  It’s also been fun to discover that I enjoy science fiction, fantasy, and the like- I never gave them a chance before!

7. With whom were your most valuable relationships?

I’ve had a year full of friends both near and far, and I couldn’t identify just one or two.  They continue to stretch, love, inspire, and encourage me.  I could not be more grateful for all that they do and are.

8.  What was your biggest personal change from January to December of this past year?

I feel like I got a part of myself back this year.  Looking back, I’m shocked by how difficult this year was in so many ways, but I also think the growth and struggles made me a much better person in the long run.

9. In what way(s) did you grow emotionally?

I’m a nurturer at heart, and I take on other people’s problems and struggles as my own.  This year brought lots of dramas to my friends’ lives that continuously reminded me that I have to let go and sometimes my prayers and support are the best things I can do for them, rather than trying to fix it myself.

10. In what way(s) did you grow spiritually?

I don’t feel like I had near enough growth in this department.  I hope to answer differently next year.

11. In what way(s) did you grow physically?

I started running in November, and walked/ran my first 5K in November.  It’s every bit as challenging as I thought it would be, but it’s also every bit as enjoyable as I hoped it would be, too.  I love it.  I just need to train more!

12. In what way(s) did you grow in your relationships with others?

I think the learning to let go and not try to control others has been very valuable.

13. What was the most enjoyable part of your work (both professionally and at home)?

Hands down, the people.  I love both my co-workers and students dearly, and they are the absolute best part of my working day.

14. What was the most challenging part of your work (both professionally and at home)?

I still never feel like I do enough for my job.  There’s always more to do and I just never feel like I cut it, no matter how hard I work or try.  It gets really disheartening.

15. What was your single biggest time waster in your life this past year?

Facebook.  I love it and hate it all at the same time.

16. What was the best way you used your time this past year?

The time I spent with my family and friends, as well as the time I spent with my camera.   I love having a creative outlet, and being able to capture the beauty of life.

17. What was biggest thing you learned this past year?

I can’t do it all.

18. Create a phrase or statement that describes 2010 for you.

“Dwell in possibilities”- Emily Dickinson.

writer’s write.

I consider myself a writer.  Am I the best?  Nope.  Definitely not.  But, I’m pretty darn good.  It’s fun to create and inspire and enjoy the beauty of words.  However, I have a confession- I never do it.  How in the heck can I call myself a writer and never actually practice my craft?  It’s definitely something I want to work on.  And, since this is a new (school) year, I’m using this as an opportunity to grow.  I will write.  Often.  Even if it’s about nonsense.  And you will like it.  (Maybe not the latter part, but hopefully you will!)

2009 Reflection.

If you don’t know this about me already, I love New year’s, Lent, First days of school, etc… I like the idea of starting fresh and getting rid of the bad and concentrating on the good.  Simple mom put together a reflection for 2009, so I thought I’d complete this to take a look back at my year.

This NYE reflection comes from simplemom.  There’s 20 total questions, but I picked the ones that related best to me.

1. What was the single best thing that happened this past year?

The birth of my nephew Lars, hands down.  Watching my brother and sister in law beginning parenthood has been both touching and hilarious.  I have a three year old nephew, Alex, whom I adore and a future nephniece coming in June, but they both are/will be in Philly and Lars is local, which (hopefully) will allow me to be more a part of his life.

2. What was the single most challenging thing that happened?

Grad school.  I’ve learned a lot and met some amazing people through the program, but balancing it with teaching and the rest of my life continues to push me to my limits, over and over again.

3. What was an unexpected joy this past year?

I got to travel A LOT this year.  One of my new years resolution for 2009 was to travel out of state at least once.  By the end of the year, I had been on a road trip to Colorado, Philly, Chicago, and Louisiana.  The summer of 2009 was amazing, and I will treasure these memories for years to come!

4. What was an unexpected obstacle?

Busy-ness.  I tend to try to do it all, and have for years.   But, I’m (SLOWLY) learning that life’s better when you’re not running 90 mph and have time to actually enjoy it.

5. Pick three words to describe 2009.

laughter, family, and memories

6. What were the best books you read this year?

I read a lot of textbooks this year, so fun books got pushed to the side a lot.  I loved Bud Not Buddy and Watsons go to Birmingham by Christopher Paul Curtis, as well as the Twilight books.

7. With whom were your most valuable relationships?

I would say the accountability group of girls.  They continually show me unconditional love and support.

8.  What was your biggest personal change from January to December of this past year?

Honestly, I don’t know.  I don’t think I changed much this year.

9. In what way(s) did you grow emotionally?

I’ve become a bit more comfortable in my own skin and being who I am without worrying about what others think.

10. In what way(s) did you grow spiritually?

The Beth Moore study, although I didn’t finish, continuously rocked my world.  I look forward to finishing in 2010.

11. What was your single biggest time waster in your life this past year?

Facebook.  I love it and hate it all at the same time.

12. What was the best way you used your time this past year?

The time I spent with my family and friends.

13. What was biggest thing you learned this past year?

Slow down and enjoy the ride.  Now, I just have to put this lesson into place!

14. Create a phrase or statement that describes 2009 for you.

“No, I’m no one’s wife, but man, I love my life!” (Chicago)

Last update on Resolutions of 2009…

(Key: Blue- completed, Green- In progress, Red- not begun)
1. Run a mile without stopping to walk- Nope.  Didn’t happen.  Lots of reasons, but mainly, I didn’t make it a priority.
2. Take a trip to Glen Rose to come face to face with the animal that terrifies me. (It’s also just a way cool place.) I do have plans to go in the next few months with my godfather for a photography trip.  We’ll see.
3. Host a get-together every month. I worked too hard for this house to not share it with everybody. I’m pretty positive this happened.  I had four or five real parties, a couple dinner parties, and the girls came over at least two or three times a month.  I also hosted a TON of people this past year, which wasn’t part of this, but was wonderful all the same.  I love that I have a place for people to stay when they need to!
4. Wear my sassy shoes. Bring comfy shoes to work for planning period if neccessary, but break out those babies! For the most part, I’m satisfied with this.  I got some cute new shoes that I wore to school, and I’m making a concerted effort to wear the sassy ones!
5. Take a continuing ed class about art or photography. I bought a DSLR on Black Friday and have been playing around with it ever since.  I’m taking a class this January.
6. Travel outside the state… where? I don’t know, but I don’t travel near as much as I want to. Check! A couple trips to Ruston, and a big trip to Chicago and Philly.  (Super fun!)   I can’t believe I never posted about that trip.. will have to soon.

7. Switch out a chemical I use for one that’s more eco-friendly. (I’ve bookmarked  tons of recipes for cleaners, but if you’ve got one you love, please share!) Done!  I LOVE my all-purpose cleaner.  I use it to clean toilets, wash mirrors, clean floors… you name it.  It’s amazing.  (Now if only I remembered the recipe…)

I’ll be posting my resolutions for 2010 very soon.  I already have a couple in mind.  I honestly feel quite good about 2009′s resolutions.  I didn’t accomplish them all, but, all in all,  it was a great year.

Fitness… or lack there of.

Coming up, I will be updating with my yearly “How I spent my summer vacation” photo/essay/post, but for now, I want to talk about fitness.   One goal that didn’t get written down for this years resolutions is running a 5k.   So, I started the Couch to 5k program.  I’m not a runner… I’ve never been.  But, this semester will be very stressful, and so I am trying to do everything I can to lessen it and make it more manageable.  When I’m stressed, I really do like working out, especially running.  I just don’t last long!!!

So, a few days ago, my fantabulous cousin Cat helped me pick out some running gear (socks, shorts, etc.), and I began day one today.  I normally run on a treadmill at my gym, but I wanted to run outside this morning.  It was only 78 degrees, so I thought I’d be fine.  Whoa.  Not so much.  I got through it, but I swear it took everything I had!!!  I’m sure I looked pitiful trying to get through my thirty minutes of  intervals.

So, I’ve got my race set for October 10th.   I’m excited to knock another goal off my resolutions, and it’s one step closer to eventually doing a triathalonm, which is on my life list.

If any of y’all are runners and have suggestions, you just let me know… I’m going to need the help!!

update on resolutions…

Just wanted to update you and remind myself of my 2009 resolutions.  I tried to make them fun and/or challenging.   Here’s how I’m doing so far…

(Key: Blue- completed, Green- In progress, Red- not begun)
1. Run a mile without stopping to walk.  Still working on this one… I’m training for a 5K in mid July by doing intervals, but I can’t keep running for longer than a couple minutes before stopping to walk.  We’ll see, though… I’m not giving up!
2. Take a trip to Glen Rose to come face to face with the animal that terrifies me. (It’s also just a way cool place.)   Have not done this one yet.  I definitely need to- perhaps around my birthday???
3. Host a get-together every month. I worked too hard for this house to not share it with everybody.  So far, so good.  I have not had big parties every month, but I have constantly been inviting people over.
4. Wear my sassy shoes. Bring comfy shoes to work for planning period if neccessary, but break out those babies!  Not completed.  I’ve had some toe drama and was confined to only a few pairs for a while.  But, at church, I’ve definitely been breaking out those sexy things!
5. Take a continuing ed class about art or photography. I’ve been “meaning” to do this for years, and it’s about time!  I have not signed up for any class yet.  I’m trying to buy a SLR in the next few weeks.  We’ll see!
6. Travel outside the state… where? I don’t know, but I don’t travel near as much as I want to.   Check!  Already taken two trips to Lousiana, and have a trip booked to Chicago and Philly in a few weeks.
7. Switch out a chemical I use for one that’s more eco-friendly. (I’ve bookmarked tons of recipes for cleaners, but if you’ve got one you love, please share!)  Done!  I’m using a white vinegar and dish soap all-purpose cleaner that’s been pretty good.

 

Because i procrastinate…

So, if you have three projects due in the next week, how should you spend your time? Why, filling out meaningless surveys, that’s how! Enjoy!

Your Bucket List – Place an (x) by all the things you’ve done in your life thus far.

(X) Been to Europe

(X) Been on a cruise

(X) Gone on a blind date

(X) Skipped school

() Watched someone die

(X) Been to Canada

(X) Been to Mexico

(X) Been to Florida

(X) Been on a plane

(X) Climbed a lighthouse

(X) Swam in the ocean

(X) Cried yourself to sleep

() Seen the Cherry Blossoms in Washington, D.C. (not in bloom…)

(X) Played cops and robbers (I have a brother – I’m sure I was forced to at some point)

(X) Flown a plane (Seriously amazing, people!!!)

() Owned a boat

() Watched grandchildren grow

(X) Recently colored with crayon

() Been to the Kentucky Derby (I just want to wear the hats!!!)

(X) Been to Key West

(X) Been to a rodeo

() Sang Karaoke

(X) Paid for a meal with coins only

(X) Done something you told yourself you wouldn’t

(X) Made prank phone calls

(X) Laughed until some kind of beverage came out of your nose

(X) Caught a snowflake on your tongue

(X) Written a letter to Santa Claus

(X) Been kissed under the mistle toe

(X) Watched the sunrise with someone

() Seen the green flash at sunset (Why do I not know what this is?)

(X) Blown bubbles

(X) Gone ice-skating

(X) Gone to the movies?

() Owned a convertible?

Now Answer the Questions Below:

1. Any nicknames? HH, Heatherbug, heater, miss priss, hedder… there’s more, but those are the main ones.

2. Mother’s name? Beverly

3. Body Piercing? Ears

4. How much do you love your job? A lot— especially the people I teach/work with.

5. Birthplace? A-town, TX

6. Been to Hawaii? yes. loved it, but will use that motion sickness patchy thing next time. I spent most of the trip quite green!

7. Ever been to Africa? No, but thanks to Jenn’s recent adventures, I really want to.

8. Ever eaten just cookies for dinner? probably.

9. Ever been on TV? Yes, for Ulster Project related stuff and because I really like to stop by WFAA’s station on the way home from visiting the AAC.

10. Ever steal any traffic signs? um, i stole a hubcap off the side of the road once. does that count?

11. Ever been in a car accident? unfortunately, yes.

12. Drive a 2-door or 4-door vehicle? 4 door.

13. Favorite number? 7 and 37.

14. Favorite movie? Dream for an Insomniac, Dirty Dancing, and The Holiday (yes, i like girlie movies.)

15. Favorite holiday? Christmas and holy week

16. Favorite dessert? Grandmommy’s cheesecake, brownies

17. Favorite food? it depends on my mood… i like food in general. probably oven baked chicken… yum.

18. Favorite day of the week? Saturday.

19. Favorite brand in cars? I like the imports… not very American of me, I know, but I love them all the same.

20. Favorite smell? B&BW Brown Sugar and Fig and homecooked meals…

21. How do you relax? water always does it for me… lake, ocean, pool, you name it… it’s just good for my soul.

22. How do you see yourself in 10 years? Married, babies, still loving this little life o’ mine.

23. Furthest place you will send this message? the intergalactic internet interstate…

weight loss…

Since mid-February, I have been following a South Beach/Curves type low carb diet. I’ve done great with it- I’ve lost 16 lbs. But, here’s the problem that I knew I’d face eventually- I just can’t stick with it. I love fruit and (much to the surprise of my childhood self), beans. These things are still quite taboo on stages 1-2 of the diet, and I’m just sick of denying myself something that really is good for me. So, I’m back to healthy eating. Life’s just too short to deny myself something that truly benefits me just to move the scale a few pounds. So. we’ll see how it goes! I’ll keep you updated.

I’ve come to realize…

My friend Audrey posted it on FB, and I liked it, so I thought I’d put it on here… (in total honesty, I posted it here because I can not figure out how to post a note on the new facebook.)

I’ve come to realize….
1. I’ve come to realize that, I talk: a lot.
2. I’ve come to realize that, I love: my life and where I’m at… but I don’t want it to stay this way forever.
3. I’ve come to realize that, I have: amazing friends and family.
4. I’ve come to realize that, I’ve lost: a lot of opportunities and adventures because I was afraid.
5. I’ve come to realize that, I hate it when: I chicken out.
6. I’ve come to realize that, Marriage: is something I want.
7. I’ve come to realize that, Somewhere, someone is thinking: I love cheese.
8. I’ve come to realize that, I’ll always be: a perfectionist.
9. I’ve come to realize that I have a crush on: men in power.
10. I’ve come to realize that, the last time I truly cried was: a week or so ago, for no good reason. Gotta love that PMS.
11. I’ve come to realize that, My cell phone is: way too important to me.
12. I’ve come to realize that, When I wake up in the morning: I should get out of bed instead of hitting the snooze button fourteen million times.
13. I’ve come to realize that, Before I go to sleep at night: I’m better off picking out my clothes and getting the coffee set up.
14. I’ve come to realize that, Right now I am thinking about: how I need to go take a shower and get ready for the wild party tonight. (Grandmommy’s turning 85 Wednesday. )
15. I’ve come to realize that, Babies are: great. I’m glad I don’t have one of my own right now, though.
16. I’ve come to realize that, today I: haven’t been very productive.
17. I’ve come to realize that, tonight I will: be partying it up with the grandma and maybe meeting up with my bffs afterwards.
18. I’ve come to realize that, tomorrow I will: go to school and teach like it’s going out of style.
19. I’ve come to realize that, I really want to: have a robot to clean my house everyday.