2013 was a year for success, failure, and adventures

This past year was a rough one filled with lots of challenges -- personal and professional.

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I started out the year jobless, landed a temporary job that was supposed to last six months and only lasted three and went into unemployment for several more weeks before securing another temporary job, which only lasted four months.  But that was by my choice.  I'm now in a permanent job.  It's different from anything I ever thought I'd do, but I'm learning a lot, and I'm excited about the opportunities.

I went on about a dozen first dates.  Some were good and some were meh.

I cut ties with some people who were impacting my life negatively.

I finished writing my fourth novel (it's currently in editing stages) and started on my fifth.

Through it all, I learned so much about myself.  I think it's safe to say you learned about me here on this blog too.  Here were some of the most popular posts of the past year (listed in order of newest to oldest):

Everything happens for a reason -- Part II
I went to a dating event and got a lecture
That time I bought a drink for a guy
When good deeds and bold moves go unrewarded
21st birthday buzzkill
My little staycation
Who I become when I'm running
That time I talked about my faith
Cleo takes over the blog
My dating disaster (link-up)
A few words about office etiquette
Job searching is a lot like dating

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Every year, I set five goals and also list three new things I want to try/do.  Let's see how I did this year.

2013 GOALS

1.  Do 24 random acts of kindness. - FAIL
I did about ten.  Sigh. 

 
2.  Read 35 books, including at least five non-fiction selections. - CHECK!!

I actually ended up reading 38, which surpasses my goal.  Let's also note that I finished writing one novel and started writing another as well.  And changed jobs three times. 

 
3. Improve communication with friends. - CHECK
I tried to reach out to friends more than just through facebook and twitter.  I know I can do better, but I do feel like I made great strides.

4.  Take a class. - FAIL

Lame.  Pretty disappointed I didn't get around to this one.

5.  Reach my goal weight. - FAIL

Changes and stress in my life actually put me further from my goal weight, but I'm OK with that.  I changed my focus anyway.  I'm no longer striving toward a number on the scale.  I'm working toward a fitter, stronger me. 

2013 NEW THINGS

1. Buy a drink for a cute guy. - CHECK!

Remember that story?  If not, click here to read about my small moment of feeling awesome.

2. Take care of a child overnight. - FAIL

I still haven't done this.  I suppose someday.

3. Go to an Iowa State football road game. - FAIL

I was poorer than I thought I'd be and fall was crazy busy. I didn't even tailgate for a single home game.  So lame.


Come back tomorrow to see what my goals and new things are for the year ahead!