New Beginnings

So far this new year has been full of new beginnings and changes. Last weekend I helped Aaron move into his old house that he is trying to sell. Anyone looking for a historic four-square in Chattanooga?? I had to ask. He's settled in here as much as possible but with hopes that it will be sold by summer's end.
My Christmas and new year was wonderful. My friends and family are so amazing and Ive never been so thankful. This past year would not have ended as it did without them. I really feel that I am moving forward and in the right direction. My heart no longer hurts as it did and Clay is not the first thing I think about when I wake up. Everyone told me that would take a while, nine months was plenty and I'm glad to be thinking of other things when I open my eyes each day. Divorce does incredible things to your body. Personally...I couldn't eat, seriously, I couldn't chew or swallow some days, I lost 30+ pounds, started smoking again, drank my weight in vodka, could sleep no more than a few hours at time and went from happy to crying in a split second. (Oh, and there was a ton of retail therapy happening as well) Each day I had no idea how I felt or even how I wanted to feel. I just got dressed and did what needed to be done. I think that is what saved me. I spent a few days here and there moping around but every day I got up, got dressed, and made myself leave the house and interact. Those interactions with friends and family are truly what helped me overcome the heartbreak. I was able to see just how many people loved me in the way I really wanted to be loved. Those of you who know me well know I am a TALKER ;-) and boy have we talked this divorce to death! but it helped. I loved getting everyone's input and advice.
I kept a video diary the first several months. It's really hard to watch but I know one day I'll look back at it and high five myself for prospering and overcoming such a traumatic blow to my heart.
So on to bigger and brighter. 2011 is my new start. This year is not tainted, nor will I allow it to be. I start spring semester in a few days and that will take up a great deal of my time. I've got some trips to plan, as I've always got to be going and doing ;-) This year I hope to travel with some friends that I've never gotten the opportunity to hit the road with. Heather and I are looking into driving to Montana this summer for our annual road trip. I'm sure Aaron and I will jaunt off a time or two before it's all said and done.
I guess I should share a little about Aaron. We met on eHarmony of all places. During the summer I decided that eHarmony might be a good distraction for me, never thinking I would actually meet someone. I just thought it would be fun to read profiles and email with the occasional match. Well, after only two weeks Aaron appeared. I was straight up from the get go letting him know what I had just been through. We've had some real ups and downs...as you can imagine. But we have a real genuine connection and share a great deal in common and I think 2011 will be the beginning of what I hope is a lastly relationship. He's good people!

My quick movie review: True Grit, great movie but crappy ending. After such an amazing story I just longed for a more impressive ending. I love you Phillip Morris, best movie I saw all of 2010. Hands down a great film in my book.

Currently I am reading Mystery and Manners by Flannery O'Conner, she's and acquired taste I know, but I am enjoying this book so far as she's never disappointed me.

2011 resolutions: eat less chocolate, continue to love as much as I can and show those around me how much they mean to me, walk Pete and Charlie more, buy fewer frivolous items, eat out less, smoke and drink only in social situations when it's most fun ;-)