2011. For realz.

So every year since I can remember (which isn't saying toooooo much) I have written some sort of 'end-of-the-year' entry which used to be in handwritten form but thanks to modern advances comes via my highly neglected blog. So here we go, a recap of things I am most grateful for in 2010. In random order...

1)my parents: they will always, always make list but just this week I went through photo albums from my childhood (back when I was much cuter) and I appreciate even more the lengths they went to create a happy, healthy, memorable childhood for me. Their continued devotion to me is overwhelming and I owe everything I am to them. You rock Mr. and Mrs. Schrag.

2)My health: sure I have weird back problems and the occasional sore throat and whatnot but I am cancer and disease free. We really take that for granted in the U.S.! But really, the fact I am average has never been such a blessing.

3)my boyfriends: I use that term loosely because it seems so unfamiliar after Mr. Garner not letting me use it. Ha. Anyway, in 2010 I dated several really nice, good guys. High on potential? Not so much. Hot? Definitely not.... Genius? Not quite. But each of them was a good guy to whom I owe tremendous thanks for treating me well, being loyal, and making me feel worth more than I probably am.

4) my jobs: I know it's cliche but really...some days I walk away from an effing good piano lesson I'VE given or a great choir performance and think wow, these people actually pay me for this. I get paid to do something I love! How many other people can be so excited about their jobs?

5)my Tier 1: There is only one Tier 1. Need I say more? No really, what more can I even say. It's one thing to have a best friend but to be someone's best friend? That's a whole different ball game. One I'm willing to play.

6) Mmm, a kiss: I had one of the best kiss(es) I've ever really had. If only he knew. I'm sure he does. You don't whip out that kind of talent without knowing. Thanks what's your name.

7) Steven: Doesn't he always make the list? When you're such a badass you're bound to I suppose. He never ceases to amaze or inspire me but this year was particularly good. Mostly this recent occasion when out of exasperation with me not knowing my niche he exclaimed "You're a fucking good teacher!!!" I know I'm a decent teacher but someone who's the master of the art telling me I'm good at it. No better compliment.

8)Forgiveness: After tremendous soul searching I found myself willing and able to forgive two particular people who never even offered apologies. Arrogant perhaps but well-intentioned. I can't carry this bitterness around forever nor would even they want me to so I've let it go. Like any potent disease though a few scant pieces remain to be purged out in 2011.

9) Give a little, get a little: This by far was the hardest to adapt to but on multiple occasions I found myself letting someone help me. I don't know why that's so hard or so foreign but it is. On one occasion LL helped me after I'd done something for her and while I was reluctant slowly I realized, huh, that's what it's like to give and get. Who knew.

10) Puppies: I know, I know. Why is this here? Well, because I am not in love, I am childless and because I'm not afraid to admit or go after what will make me happy. And puppies are the damn cutest things ever. Especially Lask and Janelle's two poodles. One day I'll have my own and my life will be complete. I've abandoned unrequited love now that I'm in my 30s since it controlled my 20s so damn men and kids, I just need my own little pooch. One day. You hear that people? My happiness will be complete and then what? :) Bliss.


Welcome 2011, bring on my dma. Did you hear that? DMA. Dr Schrag. This is the moment.