A crazy year. Much learned:

:: I started with a trip to NYC with my best friend, at which point I decided I would absolutely "someday" live in the city. Now I do. // I learned to act upon my desires.

:: I'm healthy. // I learned I’m a strong person.

:: I went to Barcelona and Italy for a bit of work, a bit of play. // I learned that I could go through the Vatican 100 times over and still not see everything. // I learned to shut my eyes and trust traffic would stop when crossing streets. // I learned that my Spanish sounds like Portuguese. // I learned the Spanish word for "raincoat" (gabardena).

:: I went to my sister's wedding as her maid of honor. // I learned I should prep for MOH speeches ahead of time. // I learned a stash upstairs usually works just fine. :)

:: I moved into my own apartment after my roommate decided to implement "no talking" rules after 7pm. // I learned that roommates are not always the best plan.

:: My parents came to visit with my niece for a week. // I learned that a 5 year old has infinite amounts of energy when you want them to sit still, and none when you need them to be on the move.

:: I made a big job decision; stayed with my company and asked for a move to NYC. // I learned to weigh my options carefully and that sometimes the best option is NOT to move on, but just to move away.

:: I went to the UK for a college roommate's wedding. // I learned that I'll always be a klutz, and to be careful of drains when wearing heels. // I learned to clarify work expectations before heading to different time zones. // I learned that age can be irrelevant.

:: I took a tour of the country (primarily for work) and moved to NYC. // I learned that I should think hard before making another big move. Its not easy, financially, emotionally, or organizationally!

:: I ignored my gut, and realized in the end my gut was right on. // I learned not to settle for “almost good enough”. // I learned to trust my instincts.

:: I sublet an apartment for a few months while finding a place of my own in NYC. // I learned to take pictures of the way you find a place, or you could end up arguing for your deposit.

:: I moved in with 2 roommates in the city, which has been an extremely trying experience (only with one roommate). // I am re-learning that roommates are not always the best plan. (Maybe I'll get it one of these days)

:: My best friend came to visit and introduced me to a boy. // I learned I love that my best friend knows not only what I like, but what is good for me too.

:: I flew to St. Louis for a first date. // I learned sometimes you just have to be a little crazy and go for it. // I learned that there are people in the US that believe humping speakers equates to dancing. // I learned long distances make the conversations interesting.

:: I won a bet for a balloon ride. // Someone still owes me that!

:: I went on a 2nd date in California, a 4th in Vermont, and a 6th in Albuquerque. // I learned I can miss a person a lot when it just feels right to be around them. // I learned that Alpine Slides are waaay fun. // I learned how romantic hot air balloons and starry nights can be with the right person.

:: I asked for what was mine. // I learned that I shake ridiculous amounts when I’m really nervous. // I learned that my Dad can hear nerves in my voice. // I learned it feels good to stand up for yourself, even when its hard to do.

:: I introduce a guy to my parents and meet his family as well. // I learned I find this a bit nerve-wracking when you like the guy, and especially when its not on neutral turf.

:: My sister grew up. // I learned my sister learns things the hard way. // I learned I can feel fiercely protective of her, but need to let her figure herself out.

:: I came in 1st in my division and 3rd after the playoffs in my fantasy football league. // I learned that I love to win, even when its virtual games. // I learned to be a great delegator, but to trust my own calls as well.

:: I ended the year in the Bahamas by the water with the boy, random strangers, fireworks, champagne, and big grin. // I learned I can be braggy (something to work on). // I learned its hard to stay frustrated with someone when you care. // I learned there are girls that think I’m cute enough to kiss.