Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Moving into the Mid-20s

I will no longer be in my early 20s as of April. And as Dearest has so kindly pointed out, I'll have to update my blog info. After 21, birthdays weren't a big deal anymore. There was nothing to look forward to, like being able to vote or (legally) drinking. But with 25 rounding the next corner, it's made me think about how much life has changed.

-My "just out of college" job has become my career. Truthfully, I didn't expect to stay with the bank this long, though I can't really say I had a different plan. I'm enjoying where the job has taken me and I can see myself staying with them, at least for the next 2 years.

-My taxes have become more complicated, yet I have less W-2s. I've had years where I've had 2 or even 3 different jobs, yet with Turbo Tax, this year's taxes are more confusing and complicated. I'm sure it only gets worse with kids and a mortgage.

-Speaking of mortgages, Dearest and I have had serious discussions about buying vs. renting. When I say serious, I'm talking graphs and spreadsheets and calculations. (Yes, apparently that's what happens when you marry an engineer.) If you asked me what a mortgage was in high school, I probably wouldn't have had a clue what you were talking about.

Another big thing that's changed is... the end is in sight. The end of Dearest's time at University and the completion of his degree, that is. It is so much in sight that when I bought a planner for work, his final day was on it! (And yes, I squealed for joy, even if the planner is 2 years and his last day is on the last page. Technicalities.) Just being able to see that day reminds me of the awesome future that is soon to come.

Now, onto planning our trip to Italy after Dearest's graduation.... :)

Monday, January 2, 2012

Another Year

I love New Years. Not quite as much as Christmas, no holiday could ever top Christmas for me. But New Years is pretty phenomenal. The parties are top notch, dressing up is a must, and everyone is just happy and excited. The fun times aren't what really make me love New Years though.

To me, New Years is a time of reflection. It makes me look back on the year and think about what I've learned and how I've grown- as a person, not height wise obviously. :) Last year, I was reflecting on the major life changes- marriage and a big promotion at work. This year, it's been all about growing as a person. I pushed myself both mentally and physically and I've come pretty far. From being a stronger leader at work to upping my self confidence and to being more comfortable in my skin, it's been a big year for me.

I've discovered I'm capable of things I thought weren't possible, like running a half marathon. I'm excited to say that running has become a huge (and enjoyable) part of my life. Dearest and I are going to make it a new tradition to run at least one event a year. We're planning for the Disneyland 1/2 again in September, hopefully setting a new personal best.

This past year has also held a lot of change for me and Dearest. After he transferred to the 4-yr University, there was a shift in our life. The talks became more serious (though we still get in some good tickle sessions). There's less fantasizing about what we'll do when he's done with school and more serious planning about where we want to live and when and how many kids we want. It's crazy to think that we just spent our 5th Christmas together!

In true New Years fashion, I'll throw out some resolutions for 2012.
~I will be more healthy and exercise to make it to my ideal body. Setting a specific weight goal never works.
~I will dedicate more time to my hobbies, like photography.
~I will be a more adventurous cook.

So as sad it may be that another year comes to a close, I feel rejuvenated and excited to embark on another year!