After living through the 00's + another 5 years, I like to think that I've learned a few things. I re-read last year's New Years entry, and wow, do I wanna reach over there and give that poor kid one sappy hug. The girl that was so afraid of change has changed; and like it or not, has learned to accept it. Because in the end--and believe it or not--all you really have is time. And no matter how many memories, people or emotions you dig up and try to anchor or tie it down with, it won't wait up for you. It's just how life goes. So be stealth and dodge alla those tricky sike-nah's, remember that despite everything, there is a reason that your past is past, appreciate the impact of those who have come and left, cherish the now, and keep calm. Keep calm. Keep calm and carry on.

I'm feeling very reflective and good about 2009, and I'm pretty sure it's more than just a spoke in my menstrual cycle. A few other lyf lessons and field notes-to-self this year:

• Sarcasm gets tiring after a while and at one point, you have to learn to trust other people to listen to what is really inside your heart.
• Never rule out the chance of disappointment, especially in things important to you. The higher you hope, the more painful the crash down will be.
• Do not let someone else be your priority if you are only their choice.
• In the end, every member of the human race wants one thing: the comfort found in the knowledge that they are not alone. It's up to you to let them know.
• Nostalgia and reminiscing is all fine and dandy, but avoid getting so caught up missing one person that you miss the ones that have been right in front of you. You'll end up missing them instead.
• We are given second chances every second of every living day.
• Your best friends are reflections of not only the best parts of you, but also the worst; and that's why you can choose the people you like, but not the people you love.
• Whatever happens, always keep in mind that the heart of life is good.

So, with that in mind, here's to a new decade of laughs and tears. But mostly laughs.

Hopefully, maybe