It's Only Going to Get Better

2008 was a year of transition for me. The two or three years prior had been hellish, with my un- and under-employment difficulties, some health crises, and trying to take care of myself and my house while working 60+ hours a week. My social life had all but disappeared. I was finally able to return to my beloved pastime, swing dancing, once I finally quit the part-time job at Red Cross in April.
I love my job with the City Council, and I am finally feeling a sense of security. That is a good thing in these times of economic woes. It would be nice if the salary were higher, but I look forward to going to work each day, have a terrific boss and co-workers, and it's always interesting!
My social life has come to revolve around Fridays: Jitterbugs Night Out dancing at the Eagles Club. It was a very different crowd, many different faces from before. Apart from a little "issue" with recalcitrant leads, and my ensuing facebook "rant" which generated not only nearly 100 comments, but some positive results - it's been terrific. I can't begin to say enough about my new circle of friends; I've come to care about them all very much, whether they want me to, or not :) I never cease to be amazed at the unique personalities, the talent, the camaraderie and dedicated friendships I am discovering. You've made my life so much better. Jillian, Sarah, Ben, Becki, Ben, Eric, Jessica, Lee, Matt and Vivian, Mark, Merinda and Troy - you have made my life richer, and me a better person.
2008 also brought some stand-out "Top 10" *ever* days in my life. The Shakespeare on the Green that got cancelled but became a "lemonade" day - I had just lost my beloved cat Pogo just a few days before, and spending time with my friends that day was healing. You have no idea how much I needed to *not* go home and what it meant for me to be with you all. Sunday, September 14 after Lindy in the Park. The beginning of the legendary "Order of the Shovel" - what a fun day! Dancing, ice cream, playing cards and pool, food and spending time basking in the company of friends. I just don't think it can get any better than that. It wasn't so much, for me, as to *what* we did, as long as it was with the extraordinary friends I was with. My parties: the September BBQ with uncooperative weather, lemon drop martinis and Emmalee the infamous fountain statue. The Order of the Shovel/movie (that never got watched) night last weekend. My birthday jam in October; without doubt, the most leads (guys and girls :) that I have *ever* danced with at any given event, in the space of about 5 minutes. I was honored to feel so cared about!
2008 started a trend in my life; I can see a brighter future ahead, surrounded by wonderful friends and family. 2009 can only be better!