I have always liked these lists/questions, and 2014 was a year of transition. Let’s do this!
- What did you do this year that you have never done before? Became a parent! It’s only been 1 month, today, and it’s been a real roller coaster ride. Ozzie’s birth was a traumatic experience, and I am so grateful that she is safely here, healthy as can be (albeit a bit petite!). I also learned just how much the changes in hormones during the postpartum period can impact perspective. Thank God it was only for a short period – I felt so incredibly unlike myself. My little girl is the sweetest, darlingest, charmingest munchkin I could have ever hoped for. I can’t wait to watch her personality grow over the coming years. It’s also amazing to watch Walter’s journey into fatherhood – he’s simply a fantastic father!
- What one word best sums up and describes your experience last year? Change. Walt finished grad school. We had a child. I started a new job with a sister company, and entirely new peers. We moved to Dallas, away from our family and friends. It’s truly been a transitional year… one that has been rewarding but difficult. It will be interesting to see if we stay in Dallas long-term.
- What are you most happy about completing? My pregnancy. Toward the end, I was seeing a level 2 sonologist twice a week, as well as my OB once a week. It was a stressful time, and I am quite happy it’s over. Not to mention that I can wear my pre-pregnancy wardrobe again!
- What are you most grateful for this past year? The fact that Ozzie was safely delivered via c-section – our little Thanksgiving miracle!
- What was your biggest achievement of the year? In 2014, I started 2 different new jobs, at various times during the year. As I transitioned into both roles, I was challenged to learn the new role and build my network even more. There were times in both roles that I questioned why I left my previous role(s), where I was very comfortable and felt competent. As I’ve gotten further into both jobs, I’ve been really grateful for the opportunities, and proud of the work I have done.
- What were your favorite TV programs? Doctor Who, with the latest regeneration. House of Cards. We recently watched all 7 seasons of Sons of Anarchy. I loved the first 4 seasons… seasons 5-7 were incredibly depressing and sad. After moving to Texas, we started watching Friday Night Lights – it was a nice change, from SoA to this feel-good, family show about High School Football in Texas. As an aside, our town just won the TX State Championship for HS Football. This is a big deal, apparently…
- What were your favorite books? This year, I read approximately 25 books – everything from YA fiction to UnBroken to Recipe Books. I finished what is published of GRRM’s Fire & Ice series in January, which I thoroughly enjoyed. However, I think the best series I read was Patrick Rothfuss’ The KingKiller Chronicle. I am excited for the publication of the final book in the series! I also read GoldFinch. I adored the first 2/3s of the book, but the conclusion left me quite disappointed. The Russian character, Boris, was one of my favorite parts of the book, particularly when he is younger. I find Russians completely fascinating, and have ever since I started reading Russian literature.
- What song will always remind you of this year? As usual, not just one. Sam Smith’s Stay with Me, Lana del Ray’s West Coast, Coldplay’s Magic, and Iggy Azalea’s Fancy.
- What did you wear often in your closet? Maxi Skirts, particularly as my pregnancy moved through the summer months.
- Describe your style of this past year in one word? Maternity Wear. Ugh.
- What events or memories from 2014 will stay with you forever?
- Winter
- NYE Party at Harding Manor
- Tiffany & Riley’s wedding
- Spring
- Puerto Rico Anniversary Trip
- Got pregnant!
- Pig Wizard Trivia
- Walter Graduates
- Summer
- Flatmates with Aaron C Thomas (amongst being a fantastic bartender, he also made me a MEAN chocolate cake! Although food is not his only forte, it’s one of his best…)
- Rhode Island/Mass Trip with Connie Cannon
- Sapphie’s visit to VA
- We’re having a girl!
- Fall
- Our fantastic baby shower in Orlando
- Our new state, city, and house
- Ozzie-Bear arrives!
- Total lack of adequate sleep…
- Winter
Here’s looking forward to 2015. God bless us, everyone!