Reason #11 - Maybe I'm really getting settled

I have been quite transient when it comes to my work and living arrangements from 18 to 30, and there are a few things I've been hesitant to invest in. One is a couch, and the other is a piano. When I moved into my most recent apartment, I was convinced by an over eager boyfriend to buy a big expensive couch. (Well, expensive by Ikea's standards). I think the couch is now my constant reminder that I don't want to continue my transient lifestyle... since it will take at least 5 very kind, strong men just to get the silly thing back out of my apartment. I've also been convinced by my boss that I have it pretty good where I'm at, so I figure I might as well stay at one job at least long enough to finish school, and who knows, maybe even vest in my 401k...

So, now that I've accepted that it's time to settle down just a bit and I'm stuck with a great job and a good couch, why not go all the way, right? While my brother Dave was in town over Christmas, I decided it was time to buy a keyboard. A piano won't quite fit in my apartment, but I've been thinking about my need to enjoy my ability to play the piano before I lose it. So... I am the proud owner of a brand new Yamaha keyboard, and even though it was a bit painful to throw down the cash for it, I have been wondering every day why I didn't do it sooner. It makes me laugh a little at myself when I think about all the ways I justify spending money, and then how often I hold out the longest for the most important things.

I know that for some people settling in would include buying a house, or at least a dog. For me... a couch and a keyboard makes for a decent start...

Reason #10 - Christmas was a grand adventure

The Family all together at Chili's. That was definitely an adventure in an of itself. Although Libby even kept the waitress entertained with her "stink eye".


Nick graciously played "Two"(Libby's name for Sesame Street)on his iphone to keep Libby entertained. Dave showed her clips of "Two" on his iphone while he and Trish were stuck at the airport with the girls for 3 hours. So all weekend, anytime Libby saw a cell phone she assumed its existence was solely for meeting her Sesame Street needs. Obviously, Nick was deeply entertained.


This picture doesn't quite do it justice, but this is the "stink eye", the one thing Libby is willing to do on command at any given moment. She is quite the performer anyway, but she's not always as excited to do her animal sounds. However, she'll do the stink eye anytime, anywhere. It's awesome.


Me with my SSS girls at the Oasis Cafe the morning of Christmas Eve. We had to meet up for a quick breakfast so we could exchange gifts and have one last moment together before we went our separate ways for the remainder of the holiday. These girls will always be a special part of my life. We shared a great year together!


Christmas morning.