Bring on the new year

As another year is peeking around the corner I have decided to take a moment to pause and reflect on 2008. I would like to think that it has been a year of personal growth. I have loved but have learned how to let go. I have come to realize that not everything good is good for us and is not always needed. I have attempted to right wrongs of my past by eating the whole damn humble pie....lol....I've attempted to see myself as I am not as I was or what I thought I was in the past. I have accepted my flaws. I have embraced my weaknesses. I have learned to fight for what I believe is best for me. I have attempted to listen more than I speak. I've tried to give my time more freely. I've taken moments to just sit back and enjoy what is around me instead of focusing on what is missing. If I had to attempt to sum up this year in one word it would without a doubt be CHANGE. LOL Ironic right......thinking OBAMA.....that is the most obvious....I have gained faith that people are willing to open their minds and hearts even if it is for purely selfish reasons (moving on from my A.D.D.moment lol) My personal journey however involves change for much different reasons.....I have switched jobs....went after the money instead of the passion (hasn't worked out mentally for me but has taught me a very important lesson and my pocket book has loved it).....physically I have gone through a massive transformation losing @ 70 lbs and still counting.........spiritually have learned that I've been missing out on a lot by not allowing the big man (or woman) upstairs to play a bigger role in my life and have changed my habits to allow that enlightenment in.......I quit smoking......I have changed my mentality to embrace my growth as a person......(I'm far from 18 it was time to mature in the areas I had been lacking).....

Although I know each and every year personal growth and develop will and should occur it is wonderful to feel a sense of accomplishment reflecting back on 2008. It has been a great many years since I have felt a sorrow of letting time pass. Normally I would be sitting here thanking god for the opportunity for a new year and a possible new beginning. This year I am saying thank you for a wonderful year I cannot wait to see what surprises 2009 has in store for me. I hope that each and every one of you has a safe and happy holiday. Hold those you love a little tighter, be thankful for what you have, and please try and look back on what you have accomplished instead of your failures.

Until next time
Live Laugh Love
Ashley