Happiest New Year

When 2006 began, I knew it would be different than the recent years before it.  I had made up my mind that things were going to change- and they did. I am very proud of the last year.

In 2006, I made the decision to leave a man who did not appreciate what he had and chose to mistreat something so precious for far too long.

In 2006, I met myself and for the first time, in a long time, became more of who I really am, and not who I was expected to be.

In 2006, I met the man of my dreams, who I never took the time to appreciate and realize had been there for so long.

In 2006, I learned that people who don't take care of themselves by their own choice, really have no respect for themselves.

In 2006, I learned that I can take care of myself, and that my dependency on others was my own choice.

In 2006, I learned that if I really believe the end is worth the struggle, I can deal with any conflict that comes my way.

In 2006, I realized that my siblings needed me less than I thought they did. The world didn't stop turning when I couldn't help one of them. They've grown up.

In 2006, something happened that even doctors said would not. I found out that I am going ot be a mother for the first time.

So, here I am. Day 2 of 2007 and I can honestly say I am happy. More happy than I can ever recall being.

I have a wonderful man who really loves me for who I am and he knows me better than anyone ever has. He tells me every day and he SHOWS me. I am blessed to spend every day with him and look forward to every morning to open my eyes and see his face. I don't have plans for the next few weeks or months or even years. We have plans for the rest of our lives. That's amazing to me. I never used to make plans because every time I did I felt I would be disappointed when they didn't turn out. All that is different now. I look forward to days with our child and the love that s/he will know from both parents who already adore him/her. I know who my true friends are. The ones that care about me even when I'm gone and let me know they do. Those friends that share in my happiness and sympathize when I'm sad. I have an awesome job thta I enjoy going to every day. I have the best co-workers and boss that I could possibly ask for. I have a comfortable couch to snuggle with Duane on and watch movies. My refrigerator is full of healthy foods. My cats are healthy, safe, and warm and indoors where they are loved and well taken care of. My dog is loved even when he can't be with me.

Not all of 2006 was grand - there were people who tried to make my life more difficult for whatever reasons they might have had. I'm grateful for even that - because it only reinforced in me the knowledge that some people are truly not good and I do the best I can everyday to not be like them, not just when it suits my purpose. All of the petty problems they try to cause for me and the people that I love, I can happily say, don't effect me in the least.

So. For 2007, I don't have any resolutions.

I've got big plans.