Better Late Than Never...

Jumping on the bandwagon (a few days late):

1. What did you do in 2010 that you’d never done before?

Started a blog. Ran an 8k. Took up photography.

2. Did you keep your new year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year?

I wanted to be healthier both mentally and physically in 2010. I think I've improved a lot mentally, but physically, I'm still a work in progress. I also wanted to work on trying new things, which I've done better at, but I know I need to continue challenging myself in 2011.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?

Yes! Ibby, Karly and Jill all gave birth to beautiful baby girls. Maybe there are some boys in store for 2011?

4. Did anyone close to you die?

Fortunately, no.

5. What countries did you visit?

Mexico in January and Grand Cayman in December.

6. What would you like to have in 2011 that you lacked in 2010?

A Master's Degree!

7. What dates from 2010 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?

* June 27, when Mrs. Foot and I met for brunch to celebrate her birthday, and she surprised me with the cutest Cooper-inspired stationary. It wasn't as much about the gift (which I loved), but just a moment that stands out and always reminds me that I'm surrounding by the most thoughtful and loving friends I could ever ask for. Thank you!

* July 4, when Emily invited me to spend the day at the pool and going to a Nationals game. It was the hottest.day.ever but we had fun, and it was a very Washingtonian way to spend Independence Day!

* September 25, when Sarah and Travis tied the knot in Richmond, Virginia. So much love :)

* October 31, a day I spent with JB, cheering her sister on at the USMC Marathon. I had so much fun that day, and was really moved by the love and support JB showed for her sister, and all the hard work the runners put into their fundraising and training efforts. I think that's the day I told myself that I have to get back into the running saddle. So inspiring!

* December 23, when Ashley and I went to the Capitals v. Penguins game at Verizon Center. It was hands down the best sporting event I've ever been to, and even though the Caps ended up losing in a shootout, it was a fabulous night spent with one of my favorites. A new tradition, for sure!

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Running my first 8k, and making the responsible (albeit tough) decision to move home and work on finishing grad school.

9. What was your biggest failure?
Probably financially. I've definitely improved, but there are just so many pretty things out there I want to buy! I wish I had taken more advantage of living at home and paid off more student loans, build up savings, etc.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
Nothing major. And actually, I think 2010 was one of my healthiest years in terms of not coming down with any really bad colds, etc. Vitamins are working! I did get a tibia stress fracture after running the 8k, but with a few weeks of rest, that healed itself pretty well.

11. What was the best thing you bought?
A dSLR camera and a Kindle.

12. Where did most of your money go?
Paying off some of my student loans, and lots of consumer debt. Again, I like pretty things...

13. What did you get really excited about?
As cheesy at it sounds, life. I think I began to understand the whole "work to live" mentality versus always being concerned with climbing the corporate ladder and that being my biggest drive in life. I feel much more balanced now, and I'm happier.

14. What song will always remind you of 2010?
"Intro" by The Xx. It's the song from Apolo Ohno's AT&T commercial that played during the 2010 Vancover Olympics. Ya'll know how I get about the Olympics ;-)

15. Compared to this time last year, are you:
– happier or sadder? Happier, by far.
– thinner or fatter? About the same.
– richer or poorer? A little less poor?

16. What do you wish you’d done more of?
Photography. I need all the practice I can get! And putting myself out there more. I really need help in that area...

17. What do you wish you’d done less of?
Worrying about the small stuff, and being insecure about things I can't control.

18. How did you spend Christmas?
A low-key day with the family.

19. What was your favorite TV program?
Modern Family. Makes me laugh out loud like an idiot, and it reminds me not to take life too seriously.

20. What were your favorite books of the year?
The Help and The Hunger Games trilogy.

21. What was your favorite music from this year?
Eminem and anything Lil Wayne.  Both get me moving.

 22. What were your favorite films of the year?
Harry Potter, 7 Pt. 1.

23. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
I spent my 27th birthday in Grand Cayman with the family.

24. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
Maybe to have been in a serious relationship, but I guess that can cut both ways.

25. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2010?
As much as it pains me to say it... simple and comfy. I didn't have the best year in terms of loving the way I look, so I stuck to the basics.

26. What kept you sane?
My friends, Cooper, and working out. Oh, and Venti Soy Lattes.
 
27. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2010.
Leave negativity behind at the end of the day, and treat each morning as a fresh start.