Today marks the official start to the last week of my 20's. I've been having a little bit of a hard time with it. I'm usually A-OK with change, but for some reason the idea of not being a 20-something has gotten to me.
I have so much to look forward to in this next decade, but man, my 20's were something to remember, both good and bad.
I attended the best university in the world, had a boat load of fun and managed to get a degree.
I moved away from home only to last 2 1/2 years because, well, Cincinnati kind of sucks (sorry Nasty Nattier's, but you don't make it easy or fun for outsiders). I learned a lot about myself during that time. Plus, even though I worked in Health Education, it's still kind of fun to say I worked for a sex toy company.
I welcomed my first of hopefully many nephews (I'll take nieces too) into this world.
I lost my 3 grandparents. Nothing to say there except, "I miss you."
I have gotten to see my amazing, little brother grow into an intelligent, kind and loving young man who has adopted my love of Captain Morgan. He is going to be so successful, and I can't wait to be there to see it.
I've watched in awe as my big sister went back to school for her masters and teaching license while working full time, being a coach and pregnant for her first child. I have absolutely no idea how she did it, but she is an inspiration every day.
I've seen my parents go through the ups and downs of working in public education. They are generous and kind people that give back to the community we grew up in. They are loving and giving, and I'm so proud to be their daughter.
I've watched my best friend of 25 years have two gorgeous daughters. I knew something was up when we met for sushi and she passed on the Sapporo! She NEVER passes on Sapporo.
I moved back to Indiana to work a job that I was afraid of losing every day. But, I met people that will be a part of my life forever, and for that, I'm forever grateful.
I met the most amazing man. I will never forget sitting across from him at an outside table at Scotty's Brewhouse downtown, looking over, and him giving me this look he still gives me today. I was hooked, instantly. He is thoughtful, loyal and makes me laugh. He is my rock. Plus, I think it's a good sign that he reminds me of my dad (both good and bad :) ). He also comes with an incredible family. His parents and sisters are so special to me, and he has a huge extended family which is awesome. They have made me feel like one of them from day one.
I've made new friends and lost old ones.
I got to fulfill two dreams of mine- being on the radio and on television. I thank Fox59 and WZPL for giving me such great opportunities. I made some life-long friends in both places.
I moved to Chicago. When my job was eliminated, I had a difficult decision to make. Apply for a different one at the same place, try to find a new job in Indy, or take the leap. Who says you can't go home? So I did it. I packed up my one bedroom apartment in Carmel and followed the Uhaul all the way to Wrigleyville.
I found a new job with an amazing company.
My 20's were good to me, and even though I'm sad to see them go, there are things to look forward to in my 30's.
Making Chicago my home.
Tying the knot and starting a family of my own (God willing).
Welcoming more nieces and nephews.
Traveling more.
Removing my first tattoo.
Celebrating my parents retirement.
Learning a second language.
Painting more.
Paying off debt.
Owning a home (albeit a tiny one in the city).
Avoiding ever moving to the burbs.
Watching as my friends continue to get married and have more kids.
Making new friends and spending time with old ones.
Getting a bulldog.
Taking my first dog back from my parents (OK that probably won't happen)
Establishing my career.
Taking cooking classes.
Owning one set of dishes that all match.
Volunteering and donating more.
I'm sure there will be lots of highs and lows, but such is life. I'm going to enjoy the last week of my 20's. I figure I have a week to do stupid stuff and still be able to say, "yeah it was dumb, but what do you expect? I was in my 20's."










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