The Long and Short of 2008

There's a lot to reflect on as this year draws to a close. It's been a doozy...actually the past 2 years have been pretty crazy. But I have to say that 2008 has been completely unexpected and life-changing for me.

The shit hit the fan exactly 2 years ago with my Nana passing. My whole life she's the only family member who really got me. She dyed my hair for the first time, taught me to drive, played dress-up countless times, and always reminded me not to take life so seriously. When she passed away after a long bought with Alzheimer's it was really painful for me.

I finished up college, including an internship with a pregnancy education program for low-income mothers. I learned a lot about naivety and lies there. By the time I was done, I had a leadership role and was training college freshmen not to be taken in so easily.

I got my first tattoo in memory of my Nana. It's in her handwriting and it's lyrics from a song she used to sing to me. We also sang that song at her funeral. I can't think of anything else I would rather take with me for the rest of my life, and I love that tattoo.

After college I didn't really know what to do. My college friends all moved away to get "real jobs", mostly in their home towns. I was left in my own crappy home town trying to figure out my next step. I thought about moving to Madison, Wisconsin. I went on several job interviews, but nothing panned out. I did substitute teaching for a while at my old high school. It was alright; I learned a lot and had some fun. Finally a woman at the church I attended with my boyfriend got me an interview at my current job. I got it, and moved to Indy to be closer to work. I moved out on my own for the first time, and living alone did not agree with me.

Last Christmas my grampa had a stroke. He was worn down for taking care of my Nana in her final stages. My uncle found him on the floor of his bathroom. To spare you the details, he's spent the past year in hospitals, rehab facilities, and now a nursing center. He's mentally fine, but he can't move the right side of his body.

Then, after 2 years, my boyfriend left me with little explanation. I knew we weren't quite right for each other, but when I commit to something I don't take it lightly. He said he just didn't love me anymore. It was a really rough few months right after he left. Thankfully though, I've spent some time reflecting on what's important to me, what I enjoy, and the direction I want to go.

I've met some wonderful people here during my first 9 months in Indy. It is invaluable to me to be accepted and included so readily by these new friends. I've also gotten closer to two of my wonderful roommates from college. I crave community, and I am slowly becoming part of one again.

It's been a dark year, but things are finally turning around. I'm excited to see what's next!