2017 Wrap Up

So, here we are- almost at 2018’s start. I’ve had new years on the brain lately but realized I can’t very well write about what’s new before I take a look back into the past 12 months. This task seems daunting, as that’s quite a time period to review, so I’ll break it down a little at a time. I’m sure I’ll miss some things but here we go…

The year started off pretty chill- in the typical work/home/sleep/work routine, not much change happening. I eventually had to shake things up for myself and after a long night of recording a podcast and just talking about anything and everything til (literally) dawn, I booked a solo trip to Orlando. Not only was it my first solo trip, it was my first time flying anywhere. I am so thankful that I stepped out of my box and took this leap. I did something new, I saw a world beyond Chattanooga and, well, I likened the trip to the Moana song “How Far I’ll Go” (about going towards something you keep being pulled toward). I’d never officially been “boxed in”, but I’d never really taken a big step into more of the world that’s out there- you could say I’m typically kind of a chicken. Those day in March changed the rest of my year. I got to spend time with one of my best friends and was given the gift of adventure, wisdom and life changing moments.

When I returned home, things made more sense, I worried less about what others thought and I spoke my mind more; I came out as an ally to the LGBTQ+ community.  It took a minute to process it all, but I got it on paper and I’m very happy to have done so and be living my truth in so many areas today.

Spring led to Summer and a few trips: the Nashville Pride Festival, Orlando a second time and St. Augustine with the family. Going to the beach for the first time in years and seeing Loss enjoy the waves so much was a first trip to the coast for our relationship and so much fun. When we traveled to Orlando from the beach, it was fantastic to spend time with many different friends and share my love for the area with Loss as well. Plus, a week away to just play and relax was a really nice opportunity.

The Fall and Winter has put Loss and I further along the path we’ve been traveling- job hunting for me and school for him. I will be starting a new job in January that is super and exactly what I went to grad school for. Loss has one more semester and he’ll have completed the Health Information Management program. We’re finally reaching that point we’ve been working toward for the two years of our marriage. Things will be evening out a little more soon and things should be a little less stressful. I’m so happy to be reaching this point where we can truly see our successes in front of us.

There you have it, my 2017 in a super duper, crazy condensed nutshell. Personally, I stepped outside of my box and figured out where I really stand on so many things. My self confidence also grew and I realized I can do so much more than I give myself credit for. As a couple, Loss and I have been making strides and are ready to meet what’s ahead.

Now that we’ve tackled the past, let’s see what lies ahead- there are some goal setting and looks ahead coming soon to the blog. I hope you have also had a fantastic year and even if it’s not been the best, I hope your 2018 is even better yet!