out with the old, in with the new

it's strange to think about where i was in my life when this decade began (both literally, because i was at an nsync concert for new years even 2000, and figuratively, for every other reason).  things are so different now.  first of all, i was still in high school, with no idea where i'd even go to college, let alone that i'd end up in law school.  the thought of living for a few months in ireland or new zealand were dreams i had but never thought i'd actually get to do.  i probably had some vague expectation that i'd be married (or at least engaged), and have children by  now.  and i pretty much thought my life would be a straight shot from here to retirement.

i was, of course, wrong.

but the decade has been a busy one.  i graduated from high school, left hawaii, moved to washington, studied abroad in ireland and new zealand, met N. and fell in love for the first time, graduated from college, traveled around asia, moved to the bay area, began and ended law school, and had a mini-quarter life crisis.

let no one say i've been lazy.

and i have a lot to show for it, obviously.  i've had a good -- albeit, sometimes very tough -- decade, which seems to mirror 2009 as well.  this was the year to end probably the second hardest (if not hardest) three years of my life.  and on the heels of that came an equally difficult life re-evaluation.  but, as i sit at home in hawaii with my family around me and so much to be grateful for, i realize that the rewards of the decade and the year have been worth it.

so i'm going to close the first decade of the twenty-first century on an up note.  i am here, i am healthy, and i am happy.  the possibilities for my life abound and the foundation i have to lean on for support is stronger than i deserve.  i have a wonderful family, beautiful friends, and hope for my future.

what the world would be like if everyone were as lucky.

so here's hoping that you find yourself in a similar state this new year's eve.  thank you all for continuing to read about me and my life, and for your comments (which mean the world to me) and your support (which has been invaluable).  if, however, you find yourself reflecting back on years that have been more trying than you often thought you could bear, i truly hope 2010 brings you much-needed change, relaxation, and whatever else you may need.


happy new year's, friends!