My last post was somewhat of a downer. Hopefully, my next few posts will make up for that. I've always wanted to do New Year Resolutions, but having that blank page in front of me is daunting and I'm really good at making excuses. Really good.
I'm going to try something new this year and answer questions that one of my favorite bloggers, alis grave nil, has been doing for past five years or so. So here's to reflection...
1. What was the single best thing that happened this past year?
Okay, stuck on number 1. Not a good sign. I had some amazing things happen...
I think I have to say surviving this year is the best thing that happened. This year was not easy and the fact I got alive, sane (mostly) and still with family and friends who talk to me is a win worth celebrating.
2. What was the single most challenging thing that happened?
Getting through two of the toughest semesters of my life. With "that one professor" and "that one class" and "all those jobs", I'm glad I finished. period. Icing on the cake is that I still have a GPA worth something and that I didn't cause too much chaos in the Chem Dept.
3. What was an unexpected joy this past year?
Being a Lab TA!! I loved all of my 14 crazy wonderful students. And they all passed!
Also getting a carpool buddy who is now an awesome friend. I'm so grateful for all the adventures we had together.
4. What was an unexpected obstacle?
Having to fight for two of my classes for this semester. I thought being in such a small dept, I wouldn’t have that problem. Turns out there’s such a thing as too small. But on the upside, it will be like one-on-one time with the professor! And no, I’m not being sarcastic. I love small classes. I’m selfish like that.
5. Pick three words to describe this past year.
Anxious. Patience. Surprises.
6. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe your year—don’t ask them; guess based on how you think your spouse sees you. (If you’re not married, have fun guessing the answers from other friends and family, or just skip this question.)
I’m choosing my dear sister.
Busy. School. Work.
7. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe their year—again, without asking.
College. Music. New.
8. What were the best books you read this year?
Re-reading all the Agatha Christies. Best mysteries ever!
Books by Elizabeth Elliot. Intense.
Airborn Series by Matt Cruse
The Enchanted Castle by E. Nesbit
First Light by Rebecca Stead
There’s more, but I’m terrible at writing down titles.
9. With whom were your most valuable relationships?
My sister. She has continually surprised me with her wisdom even if she is younger. ;) She’s growing up and I’m learning to trust her with her decisions.
MGS (the grad student I work with). He is a huge part of why I’m still in school and why research is still by far my favorite class every semester. Smart, funny and a good friend.
MCB (my carpool buddy). She is incredible and I love that we encourage each other and push each other to do better in school and in life.
10. What was your biggest personal change from January to December of this past year?
I’m more confrontational. And that’s a good thing. I’m normally a “good girl”. A straight A student. A total people pleaser. I avoid conflict like it’s my job. But this year didn’t let me do this. I had to confront people. For my education. For my jobs. For my sanity and success. And it felt good most of the time.
11. In what way(s) did you grow emotionally?
I’m learning to deal with anxiety and fear better. I’m learning not to let my emotions control me.
12. In what way(s) did you grow spiritually?
The last one and this one go hand in hand. I’ve learned that if I ask, I will receive. I’ve received peace and relief from fear seconds after I ask. I’ve been given opportunities to share what I believe. And I’ve found a group of people I feel safe with to be a little more real.
13. In what way(s) did you grow physically?
Eh, not so much in this area.
14. In what way(s) did you grow in your relationships with others?
Getting to know people better. Intentionally pursuing that too, has been a theme throughout the year. It’s been good. I’m a lot more comfortable with my people now. Not to mention, I have people!
15. What was the most enjoyable part of your work (both professionally and at home)?
Research hands down. Obviously. And teaching lab. Those moments when everything clicks, whether it’s me or someone else, are literally the best .
16. What was the most challenging part of your work (both professionally and at home)?
Motivation. Procrastination was at the top of it’s game this year. Wanting to do well.
17. What was your single biggest time waster in your life this past year?
Worrying. Especially about things I can’t control or can’t do anything about. It’s so silly.
18. What was the best way you used your time this past year?
Getting to know people. Putting people first this year has really taught me that grades and all that don’t matter as much if you don’t have anyone to celebrate with you when you’re done.
19. What was biggest thing you learned this past year?
If God wants it done, it will be done. And no worrying about it will help.
20. Create a phrase or statement that describes this past year for you.
This isn’t mine, but’s it is very descriptive of my year.
“Life’s hard. God is good. Let’s dance”
(My next post will be about this year! 2014!! This is going to be a great year!)
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