Year End Reflections

As we close in on the final few hours of 2010, I'm in a rather contemplative mood. It's been a big year- for almost everyone I know, too. As I look back on the past 12 months, I can definitely say that this year will probably mart the biggest turning point in my life: I started a career and got married. Pretty hard to top, huh?

Though in my reflections, I've come to realize that while I am extremely thankful for the amazing job that I have, it's not quite what I want to do. Part of me says "go after what you want!", while the logical more rational side says "you have a good job, you wont be able to support the family without it, etc". The golden handcuffs as a wise cousin of mine once said. But I guess that's all part of growing up.

As I look forward into 2011, I'm pretty optimistic. We're moving closer to our hometown and also closer to friends that we left behind 3 years ago when we moved. Most of the reason I'm excited to move is because of how small this place is. Don't get me wrong, I love being 4 houses down from the beach, but when the IHOP closes at 9pm, you know it's too small.

So here's to 2011, may it bring good times with great friends. :)

Adventures in the Wild

I am a self-proclaimed neat freak. I don't like to get dirty, I love the comfort of home and I keep my french manicure looking nice. I blame Dearest for making me this way. The man has pampered me way too much. Not that I'm complaining... ;) Anyway...

So how does backpacking fit in? Not only do I have to lug all my gear out there, but I have to sleep in an uncomfortable little tent with mosquitoes, no running water and a pit for a toilet. Sounds like paradise, eh? Surprisingly, I rather enjoy backpacking. There's a small sense of accomplishment on the trek and it's great to get away from the hussle and bussle of life. Even if just for a weekend trip, it's relaxing.

This time we had some company for the day. Mr. & Ms. Army came with us for a killer day hike. We went up 1000 ft and got some amazing views. :)For a little perspective... Do you see the little strip of beach above Dearest's head where the trees sort of make a wide v? That's where we started. We went even further and yes, we had to walk all. the. way. down.

Whoa, What Just Happened?

That's how I feel about everything right now! Today was my one year anniversary of working at the bank. It's crazy how fast that year went by! I'm completely happy with my quick promotion to my position, but I'm a little afraid to see where I'll be in another year... Branch manager, anyone? ;)

Dearest's BFF is back from serving our country overseas! In a way it feels like he wasn't gone that long, but then I remember how many times I thought, "Man, I really miss him." All in all, we're both so glad he's back. After all, he's the closest I've got to a brother-in-law. :)
My new month, new me has been going.... not so great. The first few days started off nicely, then I got super busy. Between celebrating another close friend's birthday, celebrating D's BFF's homecoming and just adjusting to my new work load (while still carrying my old one), it's been one busy week. I'm getting things back on track and my life back in order, so hopefully my workouts will find their rightful place and time.

Happy Birthday, J!

August 30DS Challenge

At this moment, I've got the major things in my life in order- I have a great job, I just got married to the most wonderful man and I am amazingly happy. But the one thing that's bugging me is that I haven't reached my target weight goal. After the wedding, our exercising routine went down the drain, but it's time to get back on the bandwagon. So... new month, new me.

With my new hours, I suddenly have an extra 30 minutes in the morning before work- the perfect time to fit in some 30 day shred. If you haven't heard of it, it's a 30 minute work out created by Jillian Michaels, a previous biggest loser contestant. It's a fun quick workout that can really kick your butt. The three levels are supposed to be completed within 30 days, so that's my goal- once a day for 30 days with my weigh-in on August 31st.

I'm really excited about this!

Stats: 10 lbs to go. 30 days left.

It's On!

No, not like Donkey Kong... like Mickey Mouse! Two of my favorite die-hard Disney fans and I are taking a little road trip down to LA to compete in the first Disney sponsored scavenger hunt! The hunt spans both parks (Disneyland and California Adventure) and Downtown Disney. It's a race to collect as many points as possible before time runs out. We're pumped up and ready to kick some butt. It's gonna be awesome! :D

Did I Really Just Say That?

"I love my job." Yes, I really just said that. Considering that my line of work is the exact opposite from what I thought I'd be doing, it's seems so surreal to me. My promotion landed me in management, a far cry from the "grunt" work I was doing before. My detail oriented side is thriving and enjoying everything. For once I'm actually excited to go to work! :)

When it Rains, it Pours

The Morton salt girl is very wise. When life changes, it REALLY changes. This past month has made me realize how far I've come in life and how much I'm growing up. First getting married, then moving up at work. Not to say this is my first promotion (oh, Century, how I miss you!), but this is my first real career-advancing promotion. I feel like I actually have something to look forward to, something that'll be substantial and lasting. The job I'm moving into is great- it's an operations based management position, which is perfect for me. Plus, I get a desk and the pay is pretty awesome. :) So here's to growing up!