I can’t say that I’m upset that this year is coming to a close. So in honor, below are my lists of 07.

In many, many ways, it has been the year from HELL. It has been the year to move on and start over, which is virtually impossible to do when you can’t make a clean break. So instead of a clean break, it’s been more of a “transition.” Transition sucks. There’s no black and white about it.. It’s all just a muddy gray area.

I would hate to say it’s been a waste of a year; that’s simply not true, but it has been exhausting. I’m physically tired, and emotionally overwhelmed.

Thankfully though, with all the muck I have been through, there have been some positive improvements and gains this year.

So here it is - the Worst & Best of 07, and my hopes for 08

The Bad:

  • Divorce is never fun
  • Trying to explain to a child why even though mommy and daddy still love you, they can’t live together anymore
  • Lawyers
  • Uncertainty
  • Walking away with almost nothing (my choice)
  • One of my best girlfriends passing away from sudden heart failure at age 25
  • Spending more money than I make
  • Job hunting for three months
  • Trying to “learn” how to “date” again
  • Throwing myself into “city life” and trying to adjust to a new set of social rules and norms
  • Trying to share a 4 year old
  • Having your ex tell everyone you pulled the rug out from under him, though the signs of trouble were there from almost day one.
  • I am stressed by a lot of change all at once
  • I live in Washington DC since June and still have not done the tourist thing yet since moving here.

The Good:

  • I’m no longer in an unhealthy relationship
  • I’ve learned a lot more about who I am and what I want
  • I found a great new job with lots of room for growth and potential
  • I make more money than ever
  • I have physically removed myself from several situations in my “old life” that have caused me a great deal of stress for many years.
  • I have learned that listening is important.
  • I have opened up a bit more to new experiences and situations.
  • I have met many new people and have made some really great new friends.
  • I feel free. Not free from responsibility. Free to be myself. Whatever that may be.
  • I volunteered, and want to do it again.
  • I am in love.
  • I started reading again, which is something I’ve always liked to do.
  • I’m hopeful that next year I will continue to more solidly establish myself.
  • I’ve learned that not all people communicate like I do.
  • I’ve learned that my own inner happiness can’t be (mostly) dependent on others.