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Know what I realized today? 

I realized that over the last year (maybe 14 months), I've grown up a lot. And not even on purpose...

Let's start at the beginning: I was coming out of a breakup and didn't know if I was on foot or on horseback (thank you, Dad, for the expression). I was just focusing on getting through the day with no major breakdowns. The summer came and I started dating here and there and building up a bit more confidence. Fall came and I went on an amazing vacation with my parents where I spent a lot of time on my own, thinking and reflecting (and sunning). 

I joined a dating website and met a few great people, and though none were meant to be "the one", I enjoyed a lot of new adventures with them. In November I reconnected with an old friend named Lindsey who I have a blast with, and who introduced me to a lot of new, fun, amazing, kind people.

 I spent another magical Christmas with my family where my nephew started talking and saying things like, "Oh yeah!" after everything. I got through a New Years without thinking I had to get dressed up and drunk and make fancy resolutions. I spent it with one of my best friends, Betsy, watching a movie. 

In March I joined a gym and started taking a little better care of myself. Because I wanted to - not because I thought a guy would like me better if I said I was a gym-goer. Now I go 3 times a week and love it more than I ever though I could.

In May I spent my birthday in my favorite place with some of my favorite people.

My other best friend, Lacy, just moved back to St. Louis from New York, and we get to plan a wedding for her, and later this summer, Betsy will welcome a beautiful baby boy into the world. 

Don't worry, I know more than anyone that once you start to realize how good things are going, something terrible will ultimately happen... so I'm going to stay cautiously yet immensely grateful for the past year of growth. 

  On wards and upwards loves...

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