Ten/Ten

The older we get, the quicker birthdays seem to come. Obviously the number 2-4 doesn’t appeal to me as much as, say, 2-1 did. So naturally, I begin to reflect on the year that was:

• Am I on the “right track” as far as career, relationship, finances, etc.?
• What have I accomplished that I’m proud of?
• Do I have any regrets?
• How do I feel about my job?
• Is age really JUST a number?

Okay, so I was only semi-serious about the last one. But thankfully, the answers to the rest of the questions are mostly positive:

• Career/Relationship/Finances: Check. Check. Struggling occasionally, but still in check.
• Accomplishments: Trying everyday to make the most out of my life is high up there.
• Regrets: Not spending enough time with family.
• Job: What can I say? I heart the kiddos.

All in all, I’m pleased with the verdict. And although aging feels bittersweet, I’m making up my mind to embrace another year of fresh experiences, new adventures, and happy, healthy living. Now, the only question left to ask is:

Sweet unrelenting gods, could next year’s birthday arrive just a tad bit slower??

25 Things

1. When I was young, my family nicknamed me Kitty, as in Hello Kitty. This probably explains my aversion to all things Sanrio.

2. I’ve been asked on countless occasions if I was an architect because of my handwriting.

3. However, I actually make my living as a teacher. Most days, I love my job.

4. Many of my students weigh more than me. I teach 5th grade.

5. Five [5] is my favorite number.

6. I had braces installed earlier this year. I’m 23. Late bloomer, I know.

7. I often feel lucky to have the boyfriend that I have. He is driven, successful, and overall wonderful. Seven years and counting…

8. The first time I went to the mainland was to go to San Antonio for my brother’s wedding when I was 22. Late bloomer, I KNOW.

9. Since Texas, I’ve been making up for lost time in Vegas [twice], Seattle, Portland, Philadelphia, Washington DC, and my fave: New York City.

10. On my destination wish list for 2010: California, Grand Canyon, and Australia, mate!

11. I’ve been practicing yoga for almost two years. Namaste.

12. My favorite part of any ice-cream cone is the cone itself.

13. I keep road rage to a minimum by pretending every driver on the road is a parent of one of my students. It helps.

14. I prefer fresh fruit for dessert versus cake with frosting.

15. I watch anything and everything with subtitles. Not because I can’t hear, but because I love to read.

16. If I really enjoy a DVD, I will re-watch it again with director’s commentary - and subtitles - turned on.

17. As a true Libra, I really do believe in living a balanced life. Symmetry is key.

18. I collect coins from foreign countries.

19. I plan on learning Italian or French and, one day, speaking it in its country of origin.

20. In middle school, I attempted to learn French through self-help books and tapes. This resulted in a single memorized phrase: “trois cafés et quatre bières s'il vous plait” meaning “three coffees and four beers please”. I haven’t forgotten it since.

21. I am an extremely competitive board game player. Must. Win. Every. Game.

22. I love to snorkel, but I wish I was a better swimmer.

23. How I eat a Reese’s peanut butter cup: scrape off the excess edge and top layer of chocolate. Discard. Eat peanut butter center with thin bottom layer of chocolate. Sigh in enjoyment.

24. In my world, the cup is always half-full.

25. I have never skinny-dipped.

Head First

Everyone has a voice [and a blog]. This is mine.