Dear 2011,
I understand that you are new to this, 2011. I get that you're only five days old and still getting your feet wet and figuring out this whole thing. But so far, you've delivered quite a blow and I kinda wish you wouuld quit while your ahead.
I also get that what you dished out to me is not as terrible as it could be. I am wise in my 29 years and know that the new year can do a lot of horrible things to many, many people. In fact, 2010 didn't open so smoothly for my family either and in the end, he gave me a new job. So I'm crossing my fingers, 2011, that after this bumpy patch in the road you'll bring some good things my way.
Because I have to be honest, new year, I wasn't expecting to be 29 and single and mending a broken heart this year. I can recall many conversations about you that included happy things like travels, new apartments, graduations and new beginnings. I guess you just didn't hear the other part of the conversation that talked about how I was suppose to be doing it with someone else. So sure, all of those new things will come...you just envisioned me doing them a little differently than I had.
I take your challenge, 2011. I'm a strong woman who knows what she can do and I know that I can handle what comes my way. Sure, I would like a fast-forward button that takes me to the good parts, but I guess that wouldn't be fair to you. You're suppose to get 365 days (thank goodness you're not a leap year. February is dark & hard enough without an extra day) and we should be thankful and embrace what those 365 days will bring.
But just in case you need some help, here are a few things I'd like during the next 12 months:
1. A place of my own to hang my hat.
2. Many, many good nights with friends.
3. Health & happiness for all.
4. To loose enough pounds that I feel better about my body (and look smokin' too).
5. A few good trips: NYC, Portland, the Beach, Europe...you can pick a few locations.
6. A book deal. I know it's a long shot, but why not aim for the stars when life gets ya down?
7. The Democrats to kick ass and get stuff done.
8. A big, new bed all for me.
9. Surrounding my day with love. All sorts of love.
10. A Pittsburgh winning-Super Bowl and/or Stanley Cup Champ
I'm sure you have your own ideas too, 2011, you've already proven that. But why not go a little easy on me and make sure a whole bunch of goodness floats my way too. I'll be here waiting and enjoying your new things as they come along.
All my love,
Shannon
P.S. I just barely made it to my 10 pm goal tonight. But I did. I fought back crocodile tears on the phone earlier in the day and had some great talks with friends. I enjoyed our book discussion (please go pick up The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks) and I felt like myself. Please, let's do it again tomorrow.