Another Year in the Books

In stereotypical fashion, I will now reflect on the past year.  As I always say, 2010 was a doozy.  I learned a lot about myself, people and the world this year.  I became a news junkie, a social media enthusiast, a thrift shopper, a networker and a non-profit activist.  Most of what happened in 2010 was not planned.  At all. 

I've met some amazing people that will inspire me for the rest of my life.  I've realized that my gut feelings about things are almost always right.  I made up with my best friend after an 8 month hiatus (the emptiest 8 months of my life).  I fell in love with Broadway, again.  I also realized that I am way too much of a klutz and my body hates me. 

I've challenged myself in different ways and now it's time to start all over again. 

I would love to say I know what 2011 will bring me, but that's the best thing about the unknown.  I have no fucking clue.  So, hold on to your New Year Party Hats and stay tuned to this blog for all the updates.  I will be fashioning a new look in the new year, if you catch my drift. 

OH!  I also got engaged! 

Here are my New Year's Resolutions for 2011.  Most of 2010 still apply, however, some of these are necessary and some are shallow.  Either way, I'm doing it. 

1.  Read.  I have about 4 books on my shelf that have yet to be read. 
2.  No shopping.  Yes, really.  I will allow myself a new piece every season, and only buy necessities.  I have a full closet.  There should be no need for an outstanding credit card bill.
3. Blog more.  I've neglected you the past few months.  This year my posts will be more regular.
4. Have patience.  Each day it wears thinner and thinner. 
5. Save money.  On my list every year, however, now I really have to.  I have a wedding to plan!
6. Pay off all debt.  One of my greatest triumphs last year was finally paying off all of my CC debt.  It has now added up again, and I am back to square one. 
7. Practice yoga again.  It's just necessary.
8. Cook.  I always say I don't have time, but this year, I will make it a point to craft some things in the kitchen.
9. Take time for me.  There are just times when you need to be alone.
10. Give myself manicure's.  Another way to save money, and it's therapeutic. 

Birthday Blues

I was so on a roll.  I was so ready to be happy that it was my birthday this year, to not complain about the pressure amounted with the Christmas season.  I was ready to celebrate getting another year older with people that I love. 

Until today.  Christmas Eve.  The eve before I turn 27.  I was fine until, as usual, the season takes a turn for the worse.  This year and last, family wise, has been far from easy.  And I'll be damned if I can find a family that doesn't have drama around this time of year.  It just so happens that all of the drama seems to commence on my birthday.  Oh joy.  At Thanksgiving, the Holiday season looked promising.  And until about 24 hours ago, it still did. 

As I've said many a time before, I'm a brat on my birthday.  And this year, I was very ready to go with the flow.  To fly by the seat of my pants, and just enjoy the Holiday/Birthday and relax for once.  It's still possible if I just brush it off.  But some things are getting too serious to just forget about. 

That's the other thing...I've been brushing off things, people etc lately.  I've had this "No More Drama" schtict in my life for some time and in turn it has caused me to have a nonchalant attitude towards many situations.  I'm all about cleaning out unnecessary clutter and drama.  Cutting off the weak links and just enjoying life.  However, although it has made me more carefree, I've noticed a severe lack in communication going on between people who may need a helping hand still. 

As this all comes to light on the eve of my birthday, I will try to light the way like a Christmas star and hope that some people forgive me for my emotional absence. 

Because having everyone Happy around me, truly is the meaning of a great Birthday.

Dear Santa

Dear Christmas,

I actually don't hate you this year.  

Love sometimes, 

Allie

I actually don't hate Christmas this year.  Which is a first in a very, very long time.  For once, I am actually looking forward to spending the day with my family and friends.  I can't wait for people to open the gifts I got them and I could care less what I get this year.

I almost feel like a little kid again.  I couldn't wait to put up our Christmas tree.  I mapped out presents for my fam and friends before Thanksgiving and have them all in place...mostly.  I even treated myself to some new shoes at 50% off, Happy Birthday to me! 

I spent the day in the NYC on Sunday with my boy and some friends.  We took in a Knicks game and just wandered around, looking at all of the decorations, the windows and eventually making it to The Noodle Bar*.  We walked through FAO and Rockefeller and just had a great time.

As some of you may remember, Christmas day is my birthday.  I have long hated (nay loathed) the day that Santa slid down my chimney.  However, something changed in me this year.  Maybe it's my old age (I'm going to be 27, EEEK!).  Or, it could be realizing that I have an amazing family, friends and boyfriend and I have everything I need.  Well, minus that stellar career.  Fingers crossed for a lucrative 2011.

In the words of N'Sync "Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays." 

*This little restaurant was found randomly by my boy and I last year during the Christmas season.  While driving to NYC, he expressed that he wanted noodles.  He didn't specify Italian, Thai, Chinese, Japanese he just wanted noodles.  As we exited the Lincoln Tunnel and into the greatest city ever, we drove around aimlessly until we randomly passed a hole in the wall called The Noodle Bar.  His wish was granted and I ate the best Shrimp Won Ton of my life.