intertext

It was not the best or worst of times for me, although I know that for some of you and for one or two of my closest RL friends, it has been dreadful. Looking back, it feels transitional. I feel myself right now to be at something of a cross-roads; were I twenty something instead of fifty something, I'd be thinking about changing my profession or embarking on a new course of studies. At fifty something, I think it's more a case of consolidating what is important in my life, taking stock, and perhaps making some important changes. ( Read more... )

There are still almost six hours to go before 2009 hits. I'm cautiously optimistic.

2008 was a strange year, tough to go through but worth it in the end, I think. I lost two furry companions: my darling Cholmondeley in January, and dear little Clio-the-cat in September. In the spring, in the aftermath of Cholmondeley's death and some nasty stuff at work, I took my first ever stress-leave, even if only for a week. That was significant as I've never asked for help before and I was quite proud of myself for doing that and getting the help I needed and working through it rather than just ignoring myself and making myself ill. I did some necessary clearing out of "stuff" both physical and mental over the summer, allowed myself to face and name some abuses and horrors from my past, and feel cleaner and stronger and more ready to face the future as a result.

My horoscope for today says that "joyful Jupiter" is entering my house and bringing with him a major shift in my life if I'm ready to accept it. I'm ready. In some ways, I'm happier now than I've ever been. Teaching is good. I'm exploring photography and writing. I gave a conference paper last year and will try for another one next year. I ran a very successful conference at our college. I'm back in the groove at work, doing the things I care about, moving beyond all the nasties of last year. I have a new and delightful furry friend in Tabitha-the-kitten. I think I have lost one human friend, but I feel that other friendships are becoming more solid and comfortable. I hope so.

I don't know what 2009 will bring, but am looking forward to it.

ETA: by the way, I couldn't be more pleased about Terry Pratchett!! Woo hoo :)

It's not over yet, but I plan to put my feet up and watch movies and maybe even go to bed early tonight, so thought I would post a few reflections.

It has been a good year. I found myself still in the process of recovery from grief and getting used to being alone after ten years of intensive care-giving. It's amazing how difficult learning to be happy can be, sometimes. I'm not always successful, but at least I'm learning to get help when I need it.

Friendships have been a delight. I have some lovely new ones, and some old casual friends are becoming much more important friends, and old friends are still there, solid as a rock. I had a vague resolution to be more social this past year, and I think I can say I've succeeded.

I went to Paris!!!!!!

I still have both my dogs, and they are still wonderful, and Cholmondeley is 14 1/2 but remarkably well, if a bit frail.

Clio-the-cat continues to keep me warm at night, relaxed in the evening, and well aware of my inferiority.

I don't do resolutions, really, but I want to lose a few pounds, get a little fitter, read more, write even more than that, and learn to be a little more - balanced - about life. Perhaps writing them here will give those wishes a bit more power.

May 2008 bring all my dear LJ friends every blessing and delight: good books, good movies, good food, good company, solace in nature, laughter, and a new season of Battlestar Galactica!!!!!