Gratitude

So long 2011, hello 2012.  I hadn't really thought about it, until someone pointed out to me that this has been a big year in the life of Hilary.  Since then, I've been adding up all the changes and momentous events.

1. changed jobs (February)
2. quit my second job of 12 years (February)
3. moved to the valley (via living with Dad for a month)
4. landed my dream job (July)
5. quit my old job (July)
6. went to a family reunion (Aug)
7. went to my first gay wedding (Sept)
8. changed work locations (Sept)
9. went camping by myself (Oct)
10. changed work locations again (Oct)
11. totally changed my diet (Nov)
12. got in a pretty bad car accident (Nov)
13. bought a car (Dec)
14. lost 15 pounds (and counting)

Hmmm, I hadn't realized there had been so many changes.  Especially funny because I was feeling like I'm in a bit of a rut, and I was looking for a way to make some changes in my life.  (nothing drastic, just something to make like interesting) Maybe I don't need more change, maybe I'm just used to there being a lot of change in my life.  I'm grateful for change. 


I'm grateful for all the good things that came to me in 2011.  It kind of felt like all the things I was trying to accomplish for the last few years came together job-wise.  I'm grateful to have learned that I love the drama of prison, and the adrenaline rush of being in the environment.  I liked meeting people that I would be absolutely terrified of on the streets, but getting to know them for who they are instead.  I know having met the biggest, baddest mo-fo's out there that I can handle anything.  The rest of the job was total shit, but I'm grateful to have learned that about myself.  I'm grateful that I had the opportunity to repair a damaged relationship with a client, it had always bothered me.  I'm grateful that I was lucky enough to get the job I have wanted since college.  I'm grateful that after I got the job, I actually still liked it.  I'm grateful that my extended family has become more connected because of the family reunions.  I'm grateful to have another awesome niece.  I'm grateful she's not a monster.  I'm especially grateful that I didn't die in a car accident.  I'm even happier that the insurance claim worked out and I was able to buy the car I had originally wanted to buy 2 years ago.  I'm grateful that I stumbled upon the raw vegan lifestyle and online community.  It has simplified my life so much and I have never felt so good in all my life.  

Lots to be grateful for!  Hoping that 2012 brings more good things and is kind to you too!