24

I turn 24 tomorrow, January 14, 2009.

I think that this qualifies me as being in my *gulp*: mid-twenties. Deep breaths.

I recognize that this is a little late-seeming for resolutions, reflections or what-have-you, but since my *birthday* comes only two weeks after the new year, I usually save my resolving and reflecting for the second week of January. Seems as good a time as any to have a review of 2008...

Goodbyes are important. The first phone call I received in 2008 was from my parents, informing me that my grandfather had passed away unexpectedly. I was in New York, my whole family was in Texas, and I did not come back for the funeral because I didn't feel entitled to ask for the time off. I regret it.

The first half of my year was spent living on the Upper West Side of Manhattan; the second half in the suburbs of Dallas, Texas. To use the phrase "worlds apart" would be an understatement. I fell in love with New York City, got settled into a life there, I even heard it compared once to falling for a really hot and amazing guy but just knowing somewhere deep down that it isn't meant to be. I didn't want to admit it. I decided that it was time for me to leave the city and I ended up back under my parents' roof, giving new meaning to the adage "you can take the girl out of Texas, but you can't take the Texas out of the girl."

I determined that the longest minute of my day is the one following the button I press for my morning cup of coffee. I practically have a staring contest with the digital screen that lights up with brewing animation.

I learned that the sweetest thing in the world is dozing in a hammock in the shade on a summer day, and being awakened by a cutie with big brown eyes wanting to join you. This cutie was three; the son of my cousin. Surprised, I helped him into the hammock and he curled up next to me, still sopping wet from swimming, with his head on my shoulder. I've always thought I wanted kids in the abstract sense, but in that moment I actually felt and understood the desire to be a mother.

I remembered why I love to read so much, and was pleased to find that I still want to learn without the confines of a classroom or syllabus.

After an unfortunate incident involving grocery store sushi a few years ago, I tried it again this year at a posh restaurant. Still don't like it.

I discovered the unrivaled combination of sunroof, seat-warmers, coffee and an ever-changing playlist for my drive to work.

I am still in no hurry to get married. I want to eventually, definitely when it is the right person (see above regarding motherhood). My parents got married when they were my age (24 ring any bells?), which will almost certainly not be the case with me, unless we're talking about a shotgun wedding or a secret elopement, in which case we ARE talking about me. Joking. About a month ago I was freaking out a bit, deducing that all of my roommates of one year or longer from college (six girls total) are all either married or engaged, with the exception of me. Just call me Old Maid.

I remain clueless when it comes to guys and dating. I DID learn that I'm not interested in dating guys who are 35 or guys who already have girlfriends. Common sense? You would think so.

Intuition is important.

Know when you need to apologize.

Don't be a coward!

Speak up sometimes.

Be honest with people but most importantly with yourself.

2009 looks promising. If 2008 is any indication, then I truly have no idea what it will hold. I'm looking forward to it.

"Not all who wander are lost."
-J.R.R. Tolkien