Buh-Bye 2008!

I figure since it's the last day of 2008 I better post something, right?

This time of year is all about the "Best of List's". While 2008 was an incredible year of ups and downs for me, I look back on it with such admiration. To think where my life has taken me in just 12 months is remarkable. So what better time to share with you some of my personal 'highs' of 2008:

1) The first one isn't just one moment, it's a compliation of many. One to the best things about 2008 is being told by my best friends that "I am Back". It feels to good to be back to my 'old' self and enjoying life again.

2) What a great year spent with my family. The ups and downs in my personal life this year has only brought my family closer (and for good reason, there isn't someone in the picture trying to rip us apart). I can't thank them enough for all their undying love and support this year. The quiet moments we spent, the loud and obnoxious ones at the lake; all are just as important and just as memorable.

3) One of the best parts of this year is allowing myself to just "live in the moment". I have tried so hard to relinquish my natural state of stress and figuring out what I need to do "next" and just live in the here and now. Many of times over the past couple months when I start feeling overwhelmed about everything I need to do, I draw myself back and remember that the most important thing is Layla and I being taken care of "at this moment". That's all that matters and reminding myself of that has been so liberating.

4) Dating again. This is a bright spot in 2008. If you've read any of previous posts you know I have been back in the dating scene for about 2 months. What fun it's been, albeit completely exhausting, it's really quite fun. Rediscovering the 'butterflies' and "first kisses" has been amazing. I look forward to what 2009 has to give me in this department.

5) Reconnecting with my faith. This is really what has kept me going strong and the most important aspect in my personal journey this year. I have had the help of many dear friends and for that I am eternally grateful. My spirtual journey has taken many twists and turns in my lifetime and I finally feel likes it's on the right path for me. Can't wait for where this path takes me next.

6) Layla. What an amazing child this is. This year she has completely transformed from a baby to a little girl. It's been thrilling watching her develop this unique little personality. She's truly been the one constant in my life this year. When the day hadn't gone right, all I had to do was sit on the floor and play with her and remember how blessed I am. I remember a distinct moment soon after Farhad and I seperated. It was right before bedtime and we had just finished reading a book in her room. I decided to hold her and rock her a few minutes before 'nigh nigh time'. I just remember her cozying up to me and staring at me. It was in the moment I realized just how precious and important being her Mom was. No matter what happened in our life, she would always have me and likewise, I would always have her.

There are so many more moments that defined this year...too many to talk about here, but the above are few of the best and most memorable. I am reminded in this time of reflection just how wonderful my 'new' life is. I am so truly happy and thankful for all the blessings in my life.

And with that, I wish you all a fabulous end to 2008 and here's the hoping 2009 is only 'bigger and better'.

Cheers! Christian