So long 2009!

Today is the last day of 2009... and the first day of the rest of my life!

I know it's a bit cliche, but I can't believe 2009 (and the last decade) are truly coming to an end. This year flew by like all the rest, and I can't believe it's over!

This year was a year full of changes. So many changes that I can't even list half of them--I probably couldn't even tell you about them. I just -feel- like so much has changed, even though I can't put it into words.

2009 is the year I:

* had surgery
* lost 105 lbs in 4 1/2 months
* moved back home/left Madison for good
* considered a new path for the rest of my life
* finished being involved with InterVarsity after 6 years
* rediscovered my love for reading
* ...and so much more!

2010 will be the year I:

* student teach
* graduate
* decide if I am physically able to teach or not
* either start graduate school or look for my first full time job
* complete a challenge to read 100 books in 2010
* ...and so much more!

I am excited about where God is taking me. I'm currently looking into two schools for grad school: USD and SDSU. I'm a bit nervous to even consider SDSU since they were so quick to tell me "You can't do this--you have to change your major" before. I have to keep reminding myself that this would be different people and a different college completely. I am waiting to hear back from the schools.

I am excited for student teaching, though I am scared out of my mind. That's normal, so I'm thankful. I am so ready but feel so unprepared. Sounds like that's not possible, but trust me--it is.

I got $150 gift card for clothes for student teaching from the Lee's for Christmas. Yesterday I got a $350 voucher from Voc Rehab for clothes! So between the two I have $500 to spend--I am excited. I've never spent that much on clothes before. I'll be looking good when I teach! =)

My friend Holly is back from China for Christmas. She's having a New Years Eve party tonight at her house. She throws a little get together every time she comes home. It's really the only time I see her and all my old CCF friends, so it's a good time. Each time I go, there are more people that I don't know, because I don't hang with this group of friends anymore. Still, it's a lot of fun to reconnect and hang out. I am still undecided on if I'm going or not--it totally depends on my pain level. I have quite a bit of pain today, but it feels better than yesterday at least. That is a good thing.

I want to wish everyone out there a Happy New Year. I hope 2010 is filled with family, friends, love, and joy for all of you!