A resolution in review

Almost a year ago, I decided to make New Year’s resolutions fun, instead of using them as an opportunity to be critical of myself.

It’s been an amazing year. I might not have mastered a second language or lost 50 pounds, but I spent some of the best quality time with friends a girl could imagine.

In 2011, I attended over 25 live events. (A full schedule is listed to the right) These ranged from country music concerts to plays, comedians and dancing with my friends at a piano bar. I also threw in a few Panthers games and, of course, some racing pigs. I traveled as far as Roanoke, Virginia for an event. I was lucky enough to have 17 friends to attend events with and two family members.

There are so many things that I have learned from my experiences, most of which are hard to put into words. I learned to relax and have fun. Sometimes, I even let myself dance. I realized that I have a diverse group of friends that are up for almost any kind of event I could throw their way. I came to know the value of a Groupon.

Earlier in the year, I was feeling a little down and alone. A good friend reminded me that is never the case and this year has proven it. Every month, not only have I had an awesome event to look forward to, I’ve had amazing friends with me for every one.

Thank you to everyone who helped make my resolution a success in 2011, from reading my blog to opening your wallets and attending events with me. I’ve got another fun idea for 2012 and I can’t wait to share it with all of you.

Thank you to: Kelly, Misty, Michael (my brother), Gabe, Jean, Mark, Alisa, Frank, Dan, Tasha, Cheryl, Tammy, Elizabeth, Jemi, Micah, Derek, Joey and Mom.

Celebrating the season with a special friend

I think everyone should have a friend like Cheryl. We became friends in 2005 when we worked together at the bank. Cheryl is the type of person that I can always laugh with, no matter what the circumstances. My job at the bank was less than ideal and I usually cried at least once a week. She could always make me laugh.

Cheryl's birthday is December 20. I think it is fitting that she was born so close to Christmas because she is truly a gift to everyone that knows her.

On December 2, we went to the Charlotte Youth Ballet perform the Christmas classic, The Nutcracker to celebrate her birthday and attend my final live event of the year. The Charlotte Youth Ballet cast features local and international professionals paired with talented regional students of ballet. Students of ballet from 3rd through 12th grade are invited to audition.

We headed uptown to the Dale Harton theater at Central Piedmont Community College. I was very pleased to discover it's one of the few venues uptown with free parking. Our seats were great and within minutes of sitting down, we were transported into Clara's magical journey. There is something so soothing and familiar to me about this play. So many things change from year to year, but the story of Clara never changes. It brings me back to my childhood and ignites my imagination.

Of course, throughout the show, Cheryl and I got a case of the giggles and were very lucky not to get kicked out. But that's what friends are for, right?

This is my last scheduled live event for the year, but I have more blogs coming about what this experience has meant to me and what I plan to do next year, so stay tuned!