Unbelievable

It is hard to think back at the moment when everything changed.  Instead, there just comes a time when we realize that a change has occurred, but we don't realize that it was gradually happening right before our eyes.  This is something about life that never ceases to amaze me.  It feels like I just woke up today, finding this year to be over.

It is absolutely unbelievable to think that one year ago, I was well underway in my study abroad experience in France.  At the time, I didn't quite realize just how much the experience would shape me.  I also had no idea of the things to come; I almost wish that I could have given myself a warning of sorts.  Now, a year later, I am finishing my student teaching experience that I have been working on for the entire school year.  If you asked me in September if I would make it to graduation in one piece, my answer would have been "NO".  Now, next Friday, I will be considered a competent, qualified teacher...officially.  Scary.

It would be an understatement to say that this past year was full of milestones.  It is even crazier to think that even more milestones remain. The beginning of this chapter to come is definitely the most frightening to anticipate.   I don't know where I will be three months from now, but now that my schooling is coming to an end,  I am beginning to be more excited and enjoy the ride.

So, now all that there is left to do is to finish, appreciate, enjoy, and to look back at the past four years of my life fondly.  It is truly unbelievable to think about changes that occurred within, as well as with the world around me.

2011

In 2011, I did things that I never thought I could do.  I traveled to a foreign country alone and lived there for over 5 months.  I challenged myself everyday.  I learned about who I am, what I want, and the value of life and those who accompany me.  I met people that I will never forget and cannot imagine life without.  I ended a long relationship because I have finally begun to understand myself and what I deserve.  I lost a dear friend, whom I still cannot imagine my life without.  I still, of course, have some of my bad habits, and hopefully my good ones.  I am forever changed by this year for the bad and for the good.  I am still here, and I guess that's all that I can ask for.  Health and happiness to you in 2012 and all of the years ahead for us.