The Year That Changed Everything or The Year That Everything Changed
There was no way that I could’ve ever anticipated what 2011 would bring. This time last year, I was single, applying to a PhD program abroad and planning to relocate. I was running (actually running!) and losing weight. Life was good, but I was anticipating more. Daniel and I had our first date on February 19th. We had our second date less than 48 hours later. My sister, Brittany, called me on the morning of February 28th. She and her partner, Erik, were having a baby. I was going to be an aunt. My mom was going to be a grandmom and my grandmom was going to be a great grandmom. Just like that. Daniel and I continued dating and by the 6th week, I realized I didn’t have any complaints. Nothing I would change, nothing I couldn’t live with or without. How was that possible? Easter was approaching and I spent it with Brittany and Erik in South Carolina. She was absolutely gorgeous and had the tiniest belly. Before my flight back home, the 3 of us registered for all the necessities for Ella, who we didn’t know was a girl at the time. Within a few hours, I knew what a Bumbo and a Boppy were. I still had no idea how to be an aunt. After breaking my hip (well, that’s what it felt like) in the spring, I somehow managed to complete a 10 mile run, but not without support. By the end of May, I accepted a job offer and put my dream of studying and researching on hold. Daniel asked me to marry him. I said yes. Brittany and Erik made plans to move to the Philadelphia suburbs before having the baby. Towards the end of summer, after many ridiculous setbacks, I completed my first sprint distance triathlon with my partner in training. Daniel subleased his apartment and moved in with me and Shannon, my roommate and best friend. 3 is company! In the fall, we prepared for Ella’s arrival and designed a mural in her nursery. She made me the happiest aunt on October 25th. By the time Thanksgiving rolled around, my niece had softened everybody’s heart. The holidays and family gatherings were filled with positivity. But, of course, you can’t have the good without the bad. When somebody close to you loses a loved one, there’s not much that can be said or done. Grandchildren lost their grandmother, children lost their mother and a husband just lost his wife. He says, “How do I go on without her?” And it’s moments like this, that make you realize how precious life is. So, on this last day of the year, I am thankful for all of the gifts in my life. To go to bed happy every night with your partner by your side, no matter how bad things may be, is the greatest gift of all. Happy New Year! Let 2012 be the best year yet!
