2009

It was rough.


But it's when things get weird and rough that we learn a lot about ourself. I want to be able to look back on a past year and feel proud, like I did something and touched people. But I don't feel like that. I had some blissfully happy moments in 2009 but I think for the most part I let myself crash and burn. I also let other people crash and burn where it would have been so easy for me to reach out and prevent that from happening. But that's why we mark the new year, isn't it? To remember that now is a chance for us to start over. Lessons learned this year? From mistakes and and victories:

♥ When you start something, see it through to the end. It will make you feel so much better.
♥ Making playlists relevant to your current mood/source of sadness is incredibly therapeutic.
♥ Have a separate journal of sorts for your saddest moments. Write like mad until the tears stop and only go back to it when you need some vent space.
♥ Romantic relationships work best when you've established a long-standing friendship first. But if said relationship has to come to an end, do so cleanly and don't look back. That way, when the hearts are healed, the friendship can start again.
♥ Retail therapy is brilliant. But only when you can afford it.
♥ Sometimes in social situations, you don't have to talk. Just listen and watch.
♥ Grey is probably the greatest neutral in the entire world.
♥ Scarves make every outfit look a little more chic.
♥ Your family will always be there. Hold on to them.
♥ Eat bad food, feel gross. Eat good food, feel wonderful and healthy.
♥ There is no such thing as a dumb question. And you always learn something from the answers.
♥ It's better to have a few high-quality shoes than tons of cheap-o ones.
♥ A selection of black dresses will get you through just about anything.
♥ It's okay to say no. Don't agree to take on tasks that you can't follow through on.


All of the above in mind, I feel pretty well-equipped to walk onward into 2010. I remember when I was in elementary school I would draw these big resolution posters in crayon. They'd usually say the same thing every year, which was very indicative of the fact that I didn't take them all too seriously after their completion. But starting now, I think resolutions and goals will be good for me. I ought to stick to them. Here are some of mine:

♥ Straight A's, baby. Last semester was my worst yet and I have got to get out of this rut.
♥ Focus more on strengthening friendships and less on blossoming romance.
♥ Cook more, grocery shop with my budget and long-term needs in mind. More fruit!
♥ Shop more for wardrobe staples, not just occasion clothing. This last year, I'd go shopping when I needed a dress for a party. Which is why I have a ton of darling frocks, but nothing else. And sparkly dresses and tulle-y black minis hardly translate to everyday wear.
♥ Bring this blog back to its original glory. It used to be such a source of joy for me and I've been neglecting it so much lately. I feel like a return to its attention will do tons for my overall attitude.
♥ Become a bit of a neat freak. Dishes always done, room always clean. A tidy space always makes me work harder.
♥ Less procrastinating. Though I can't imagine ever being able to abolish it entirely.


What about all of you? How are you planning on ringing in the new year? What are you goals? Dish, darlings.

all images via we heart it.