I remembered a 20-question like post from last year and found this one today on in-courage. And just realized it's the same one I used last year. But I do remember that it was incredibly thought-provoking and figured, what the heck? Let's share my 2010 in simple words and memories.
20 Questions for a New Year’s Eve Reflection
1. What was the single best thing that happened this past year?
My husband and I became so much more committed to one another. It was a year of spending a lot of our time together and cherishing that.
2. What was the single most challenging thing that happened?
Dealing with finances.
3. What was an unexpected joy this past year?
Learning that my dear friend Paige and her husband Michael will welcome a new life into the world in 2011. Never being one to know much about children, nor really having mothering instincts, I was so shocked at my excitement for these two people. It's just a real joy.
Another one that comes to mind was the Naked Lady Party aka a clothing and accessory exchange hosted by our dance instructor (and friend) and her daughter. Such a great day of gratitude.
4. What was an unexpected obstacle?
My job changed this year and the transition was a little hectic.
5. Pick three words to describe 2010.
Simplify (2010's one little word), stressful, faith
6. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe your 2010 (don’t ask them; guess based on how you think your spouse sees you).
busy, together, interesting
7. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe their 2010 (again, without asking).
connecting (with family and friends), change, prayer
8. What were the best books you read this year?
Oh, this was an easy one:
This was the best book I read this year. Touching, intensely deep, shocking.
Something I didn't expect to like, but it really stuck with me.
A trilogy I never expected to like, but loved (and the movies were amazing).
9. With whom were your most valuable relationships?
Ah, good question. I'll talk about people besides my husband, because that's obvious.
Definitely with God. After a year of feeling truly forsaken in 2009, this year I felt God's hand in so many ares of my life and truly connected with Him in prayer, reading scripture, and living in faith,
Our friendships have remained true. Paige and Katie and their husbands are just incredible to us. There are few people who you can be bravely bold with and they always allow us to vent, laugh, be us.
My friend Maryann. An incredibly honest and true person.
All our friends, (and our pastor and his wife) in Starting Point (our community group)at our church True North.
Our families who support us and keep us well-fed and connected to each other.
10. What was your biggest personal change from January to December of this past year?
I stopped singing at my church this year and when I say that was a very big deal, I mean it. This Christmas Eve mass was the first one I didn't sing at since I was in third grade. But I have more time to spend with my husband and I no longer have to work on the weekends. I do really miss it, though.
11. In what way(s) did you grow emotionally?
I had a slightly-sad year this year which was completely my fault. I have trouble reaching out to others and sometimes bottle up my emotions. I have learned now to appreciate that others care for me and want me to be happy...that's going to be a part of 2011 for sure.
12. In what way(s) did you grow spiritually?
Incredibly. We found a church that is like home to us, I participated in a couple of Bible Studies and, most importantly, I feel that I actually have a relationship with the Lord, which is huge for me.
13. In what way(s) did you grow physically?
I gained 20 pounds. So I actually grew. Trying to make this less of a big deal than it really is.
14. In what way(s) did you grow in your relationships with others?
Friendships have deepened and they are no longer surfac-y. Much more meaningful conversations. Spending time with those who are lasting friends has been very important to me. And having friends who will support me is a gift that I cherished this year.
15. What was the most enjoyable part of your work (both professionally and at home)?
I was so excited to be invited to New Orleans to present on behalf of my director. That was an honor. And I was crowned princess Kathleen on my Southwest flight. That was a serious highlight of the year.
16. What was the most challenging part of your work (both professionally and at home)?
Again, the position transition.
17. What was your single biggest time waster in your life this past year?
Focused on what others had that I lacked. What a waste!!! And some negativity.
18. What was the best way you used your time this past year?
Women in Communications Awards. Almost didn't go to this, but Paige and I had a freaking blast being in the same room as Oprah, Tina Fey, Barefoot Contessa, Doris Kearns Goodwin, Anna Quindlen, and many other inspirational women. So so so so fun.
Beth Moore's Lifeway event. Connected with my mother-in-law and some of her friends and learned the importance of treasuring.
I've loved the new connections I've made online and love inspiring others and being inspired.
19. What was biggest thing you learned this past year?
Go for it! Don't worry about the little things that won't matter next year(or even tomorrow), don't be stressed about others' perspectives of me, actually live the life I have to enjoy.
20. Create a phrase or statement that describes 2010 for you.
Friends, faith, family, love, commitment.
Once I finished this (I guess it took about an hour) I feel so grateful for the goodness in life, for the blessings of the year, and for friends, family, and a husband who make this life so much more fulfilling.
Happy New Year, all. Thanks for being a part of this blog journey. You've made this year so much brighter (the comments really do make me grin). Love to you all.
