Looking Back

Dear 2012,

I'm looking forward to what you bring. I look forward to getting my Master's Degree before the year's up. I also look forward to being much smarter than last year.

While I'm mentioning last year, I'd like to say that I hope you treat me better than that stinkin ole 2011. I think the fact that 2011 was odd, it had a bit of a grudge on its shoulder, and it showed. Albeit, 2010 was hellish, and I'd like to never repeat it, I think 2011 was only a tad better.

While driving today, I was thinking back on people who have affected my life, realizing that they all have defined who I am today. I know it sounds like a cliche, but now I know why people say it, because it's true. I've had wonderful relationships. I've also had crummy relationships, and even those relationships have helped shape me into who I am. I've learned from every situation. I may make the same mistakes, but I learn something new each time.

Thankfully, I didn't lose anyone in 2011. (I don't mean lose as in I can't find them, I mean they've gone on to that magical carpet ride in the sky.) However, others in my family have. So, 2012, I'd like to plead to you in that we don't lose anyone this year. I'd like to cherish the time I have with my loved ones, so please allow me (us) that time.

I know a lot of people make promises to you, Even Steven 2012, but I have to say, that's not me. I have no resolutions. Wait, I take that back. I resolve to finish a book I've been working on since summer! There, take that 2012, I'm going to finish a book! I love making resolutions I know I can keep. ;) Even though I don't make new year's resolutions, I do have desires, goals, dreams, so hopefully some of those come to fruition.

As I sit here, thinking, isn't it funny how things change from year to year, moment to moment? I look back and think how naive I've been at times. When you're young, you think differently, and boy did I. I bet I'll look back in 10 years and think the same thing about my 33 year old self.

Anyway, to 2012, I say again, I look forward to what you bring. I'm excited for the adventures ahead and I hope they are all filled with cupcakes and sprinkles. But only good cuppie cakes. Who wants a year filled with ugly, dry, crumbly cupcakes? Surely not me.

And don't call me Shirley.