mad to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved...

On January 8th I celebrate my One Year Chicagoversary. Kinda hard to believe it’s been one year already.

Overall 2011 turned out to be a huge year. At one point during the year I felt like my life was almost stuck on autopilot. I felt like I wasn’t doing anything new or exciting. A few good friends reminded me that life every day is an adventure. And that in many ways, mine is a greater adventure than most.

Looking back on the year, good and bad, it really was anything but ordinary.

- - -

I took a huge risk and it turned out to be a major win.
I took some other risks and fell on my face.
I faced some fears.
I messed up.
I made some art.
I got buried in Chicago’s 3rd largest snow storm ever.
I met some amazing people that will be with me forever even if some are miles away.
I created challenges for myself and fought with them and overcame some.
I found myself in places I never thought I’d be and with people I never thought I’d be with.
I did a couple of things that are permanent. Can’t go back now. Wouldn’t want to.
I hurt someone.
I said “yes” a lot.
I said “no” when it mattered.
I was told “no” when I tried giving someone a piece of my heart.
I learned more fully that I don’t have to do what others tell me or expect of me. And that I don’t have to do things their way either.
I learned that I don’t need for anyone to understand me.
I fought a mugger like a badass and won.
I read a lot of books.
I spent a lot of quarters on laundry.
I broke a heart and therefore broke a good friendship.
I kept traveling a lot.
I kept in touch. I visited.
I said “goodbye” knowing I may never see him again.
I came to really understand the value of community.
I checked stuff off my bucket list even though I don’t even have a bucket list.
I laughed a lot, cried a little, and hugged people hard.
I said “I love you” and I meant it.

I allowed myself to make mistakes.
I don’t regret anything. 
I had a damn good year.

Bring it on, 2012.