Ode to 2011

It's hard to believe that the end of 2011 is but hours away. It seems like only yesterday I was here, preparing for guests to arrive, making food, arranging everything just so...I suppose things haven't changed all that much, aside from the guests part. That's right, I've decided to ring in the new year solo. I had the chance to spend it with loved ones, hunkered down in a hunting cabin, lounging in a sauna, sharing stories, and drinking more than I should, but it all seemed too much this year. I wanted to savor my remaining days of freedom doing exactly what I want - which at the moment is nothing. I spent the entire day yesterday lounging in bed, rousing myself only to find food and occasionally stretch my legs. It was perfect. But back to the point of this post...2011. All in all, it was a great year. There seems to be a running theme for me - one good year, one bad year, alternating back and forth. Odd years seem to turn out the best. Perhaps it's because of my penchant for odd numbers and things...


2011 started off wonderfully. I rang in the new year with my amazing girlfriend at my side, surrounded by my favorite people in the world. Classes soon started up again, and I ended up having one of the best semesters of my post-secondary career. I found a summer job, worked as little as possible, and spent most of my time outside. I watched breath-taking sunsets, swam until I was sure I would grow gills, roasted marshmallows like it was my duty, and traveled every back road I could find (when I could get a car). In September I started my Masters, made some terrific friends, and started to figure out what I wanted to do with my life. My holidays were low-key with few presents (exactly what I had hoped for), too many turkey dinners, and enough love to make your heart explode. 


I'm going to try not to get too sappy and sentimental, but I am so thankful for everyone and everything that has happened to me in the past year. It wasn't all positive, of course. In August, I lost a dear friend and mentor to suicide, which rocked me to my core. Things haven't been the same without him, but I feel lucky that I had the chance to learn from him and befriend him. Bob, you were one helluva good man. The world needs more people like you in it. 


Looking ahead to 2012, I hope that the predictions are wrong about the apocalypse...or at least it makes for a good show. As cynical as I can be, I'd prefer to see where life will take me - I have a feeling it could be interesting...