cheers, 2011.

it's so crazy to think that tomorrow is the last day of the year 2011. 

how does it go so fast?!  

as i reflect on the year, here are some personal highlights:

--i completed my first real clinical rotational (and then another one!). 

--i completed my 3rd half marathon--the Columbus cap city.

--i got the amazing opportunity to attend a new church and get really involved.  i met some of the most amazing people in the process.

--i went on my first 17 day vacation with a family who is not my own.  fun....yet challenging.

--i went through the grieving process {and still am} with a family i love more than anything.  all because of a decision made with good intentions. i had to feel how the heart can literally ache in the absence of those you love (missing my sweet aidan, rory and aubrey). 

--i got to be a 'returning' CA, and a small group leader.  this position has blessed me so much the last two years.  my small group was amazing, and it's the best one i've had yet.  we all connected so well and i felt like we could share anything.  what a blessing true friendships are.

--i turned 21 years old.  helllllo accomplishment!

--i ran, and completed, my first Warrior Dash with 9 of my closest friends.  great life choice.

--while i got to be a big part of my now 'home church', i also found an amazing church back at school, Parkside.  i got to experience what it is like to not want to go home, because you love your church at school, too.  while VGF is my home, Parkside is a great 'second' home!

--i started part-time nannying for an amazing family with a set of twin boys (born 9-12-11). they have brought so much sunshine to a challenging semester--not to mention, their parents have been awesome too!

--i went on my first date EVER with a guy.  this was one thing i wanted so badly this year (not only to date, but to make that big step in my commitment phobia).  i actually had two '1st dates' with two different people {gabe and mike} and then got asked by alex but couldn't.  holy year of getting asked on dates {for my record!}

--i also went on my 'first' 2nd date with a guy.

--i survived the first half of my junior year.  i officially have more completed school than there is to finish.  what a great feeling!

and throughout the year, the Lord has been teaching me so much.  i have learned about my arrogance, humility, insecurities and many other things.  He has been refining me and i know He is doing amazing things through all the challenges that have come about.  while this year has been so challenging--with all the learning, and then the almost failing nursing--it has amazed me to look back and see that the Lord was with me every step of the way.  He has never left my side.  what an amazing feeling of comfort and love that has been. without my Savior, my life wouldn't be the same. 

i get to bring in the new year tomorrow with some amazing women. 

looking forward to the celebrations of the new year, and all that 2012 will bring.  

2011 has been a good year...and i hope 2012 is even better :)