Top 5 of 2008

It's New Year's Eve and 2008 is coming to an end. It's been a good year; I definitely can't complain about anything. I'm grateful to have my health, my family and my job. In this economy, what else can you ask for? I thought I'd come up with a Top 5 list of things that have happened the past year. It's been a relatively quiet year.

1. My baby girl turned 3! She's really growing into herself and her personality. We've had some trying times as she attempts to assert her independence and test her boundaries, but overall she's a really good kid. I'm afraid she's taking after me with a few traits, though. Be prepared for another mouthy, hot-tempered know-it-all. She'll be on the loose before you know it!

2. I got a promotion and raise at work (and a fabulous new boss that I adore)! It's been a long time coming, but it finally happened. All it took was a change in management (for the better for once). I've been a disgruntled employee for so long now, it feels weird to actually be happy about my job.

3. We went to Disney World! It was a huge family trip back in March and the first time for me, Donald and Ella. We loved it! I definitely understand the magic of Disney now, which I didn't fully get before our trip. I can't wait to go back again.

4. Twilight! Yeah, I have fiction young adult books on my list, what are you gonna do about it? These books are awesome and I read all 4 of them in less than a week. I don't think I can say that about any other series. That was months ago and I still dream about Forks, WA and the Cullen clan. They've definitely left an imprint on me.

5. Pearl Jam! I don't consider myself a huge Pearl Jam fan (though Ten is one of my all-time favorite albums ever), but it's hard not to like these guys. And since I grew up in the grunge era, a lot of my adolescent memories are played in my mind with a Pearl Jam soundtrack. When I saw that they were coming to Columbia I jumped at the chance to get tickets. Bonus points for Kings of Leon as the opening band. Those guys are awesome!

Time will only tell what 2009 has in store for us. I can only hope for more good fortune or at least minimal waves rocking the boat. Happy New Year!