looking back and looking forward

The past year has flown by and no doubt the next one will too. The next one is full of big changes for me- primarily getting married and *hopefully* looking at a move abroad with my new husband. I am jumping in arms and eyes wide open and am thrilled to see what the year holds. In the meantime, I want to reminisce a bit on the one just concluded.

Chili cook off 2011 was a good time as always. Got the ball rolling on wedding plans... spent a couple of weekends down in the keys checking out venues, trying food, meeting with the photographer, and even spending Valentine's night in the hotel next door to our spot. .Went to Vegas for Baz's birthday..saw my girls and had some wild times... champagne by the pool, fab hotel, gambling and actually winning, 7 dollar water, visits to the old hood with Alex, Went back down to the Keys for Memorial day for a great boating day with friends followed by an endless night....Mom came to visit in June and we picked out my wedding dress -- definitely a highlight of the year. Went to the beach less and less and worked more and more...fall brought a couple of big cases and the months simply slipped away...Rascall Flatlts concert in August was a great time with friends, as was camping in late December. Thanksgiving was spent in my hometown with my soon-to-be in laws and my parents -- actually a fabulous time. Dust came to visit in October with his mom, and then I went to Seattle for my first "work" conference -- what fun. My life seems to be defined and remembered by trips, but I know there is so much more in between that happens every day that I just can't remember. Fell more in love with my honey each day and closer to our big moment and our lives together. Was rejected from my scholarship app/ticket to Australia. Got to know KF a lot better and found a good and crazy fun friend and mentor. Picked out bridesmaids dresses that I hope my girls love. Spent a weekend in April having a mini bachelorette with two friends from grade school -- what a special experience. Haven't been to SF in way too long -- need to get out there. Went to Alaska with my mom and dad in August -- went on a dog sled ride, tried amazing small-brewery beer, got some cool jewelry and native type stuff, relaxed and enjoyed my parents. Fourth of July was low key this year -- I think we went on the boat with BBQ or something. Oh yeah, bought a condo! that was kind of a big deal, closed in June. Dealt with months of remodeling and a temporary roommate due to displacing our 'tenant.' We came through that stronger and with a new opinion about following city and condo rules. Went to Saturday morning classes at LA Fitness with KF and had great memories of that and meeting new friends. started doing pilates quite regularly in August after developing consistent knee pain. Knee has been better but I have found a new love. Maybe thinking about certification in 2012. Took Honey to visit my grandparents in July and had fun at Kennywood and hanging out with my uncles.

It has been a fabulous year. Here's to many more.