a new year, a new beginning - let's go!
2006 was a hard year, seemingly for a number of people. For me, in both the online and offline environments I was betrayed and also was saddened by the bereavements of several loved ones. Also illnesses...and...well you know - it goes on - no specifics need or will be named, nor names etc, but thankfully it ends - now.
It's time to let go and step away from the shadows that dominated 2006, part of me wants to forget that 2006 even existed - but that is childish and largely impossible....and besides, there are some remarkable memories that I want to hold on to - allow me to share:
Things were dark until April - received confirmation of getting the position, teaching Science, Math and Physics in Japan!
Soon after, in early May - Dad's 60th birthday - OMG - what a blast!!!! Dad's kilt fell down as we chased him with cameras... but the best part was when my uncle, playing bagpipes marched dad in full Scottish clothes to the rest of the family - the clothes all hand made by my aunt!
June was a great month! In the depths of the cold southern winter, a staggering 5 events brought a helluva big smile to my dial!
- I started my growing online Science and Art forum
- I finally finished up in my previous workplace, where I was intensely unhappy
- I saw my gran for the last time, now this may seem sad, but I was able to speak with her and witness my dad wheeling her around the backyard yelling "wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!"
- Had the most unusual family get together - imagine this:
My early 30th birthday party
My cousin's 13th
My niece's 14th
My aunt's 50-somethingth
My grandfather's 82nd
My farewell.... as 4 days later...
- I moved from Australia to Japan!
Japan has been very good to me!
In October, on the occasion of my 30th birthday...
- The school where i work put on a beautiful dinner
- Took me out to a drinking party....tequila + flashing multicolour lights + chocolate cake + impromptu karaoke = WOAH!!!
November I went to the United States for the first time - and was able to meet VanceWxMan and Hamp - 2 online friends!!!
December I went to Malaysia then back to Australia for Christmas - absolutely wonderful.
On the 29th December, mum and dad took me to see Gran's graveside - I was able to say goodbye, as I was in Japan for the funeral. This gave me closure.
On the 30th, I found out that I had received 2 bottles of wine as a gift from a student...
It's easy to get swallowed up by the passed, I almost did - I say almost, because as at writing this - I am believing and feeling this.
Also, if throughout 2006 I hurt anyone inadvertently (as none was intentional) I do apologise and hope that you will also move forward.
A new year, a new start - BRING. IT. ON.