2012: A LOOK BACK
Words:
SPOILERS! (Click to view)
2012 wasn't amazing or out of this world as a whole. Some pretty big 'firsts' and 'moments' happened this year, but mostly it was boring and meaningless. At least, from a day by day viewpoint. It started in a hot tub in Iowa. I had a short time left in Texas and moved to Denver for the rest of the year. Sure, Germany didn't happen and that whole scene caused a lot of heartbreak (and still does) but at least this is another place to add to the growing list. I still miss Alaska, though.
I saw Boston again. Got to visit my brother. I saw Reekie quite a bit considering how far apart we are and her finishing her Graphic Design Degree. Earlier in the year I became friends with my first hockey player outside of the USHL. After that I just kept meeting more and more. I also ______ __ with a ___ _____ ______ for the first time. It happened more than once. On top of that I ______ ___ an __-___ ______. The highlights of my year and I can't share them. At least, not here. I can share them and I have before but this is too public here.
I didn't learn much, but I did learn the extent of my strength. Or, at least, I dug deeper.... I may never know how strong I truly am. I dealt with a lot of depression this year. So much heartbreak, so much patience, so much verbal abuse. So long waiting to leave this place.
I fell down the Doctor Who rabbit hole. I tripled my alcohol tolerance. I broke out of my shell quite often. Going out alone, flirting with people I found attractive, just.... stepping out of my comfort zone really. Even if it was just my toes testing the waters. I bought my VERY OWN Christmas tree. My old one was the tree my family has had since I was little. This one is mine. All mine. I got to camp with Reekie one last time. I went to my first Avs game. Of course I moved to Denver and a lockout happens. But I still saw plenty of hockey. I lived in a hotel. I had Alaskan Smoked Porter for the first time since I left that wonderful state. I had a dog named Henrik. I sprained my ankle.... twice. I made new friends. I turned 24.
I think my favorite part of 2012 was every single time that Bryzly would willingly sleep next to me. Her snout tucked under my chin. I could hear every breath. Every inhale, every exhale. Her breath was warm and she just melted as she sleep. I could kiss the top of her soft, furry little head while she slept and she didn't mind. There was no moment that made me feel so loved, so needed. Each cuddle was better than the last.
Pictures:
There you have it. My 2012 in review, reflection, a look back.
I'm ready for 2013 and I'm ready to make this year better than the last. But no matter what, I still have my memories, my accomplishments, my mistakes, my lessons.
Have a fun and safe night, SG, and I wish nothing but the best for you in the brand new year.
xoxox Aly 
