23

Why hello there readers. Thanks for tuning in (that is, if someone is actually tuning in...). Whatever your reason for reading... I hope this blog will keep faraway family more up-to-date on my life, inspire my boyfriend to start his own blog (hint, hint!), and provide a few smiles for my wonderful friends. I love you all, and thanks for caring :)

I felt like my 23rd birthday was a compelling enough day (and easy conversation starter) to start this blog. However, my real desire to start blogging came from my recent decision to attend grad school at Washington University in St. Louis - here on out, abbreviated WashU. I will blog more about that later, but for now I will reflect on turning 23 and share with you some goals I have for this year.

I have to say that my year of being 22 was pretty awesome and kind of a big deal, in my small world. Just a few highlights... I graduated college and got my first "real" job, I coached THREE sports at a local middle school/high school in Tuscaloosa, I had my THIRD knee surgery (hmmm I'm starting to see a trend here), I was accepted to grad school, and I visited 10 states. I thoroughly enjoyed being 22. Taking a break from the books and studying was nothing short of glorious. My personality is one that responds quite well to a routine which we all know is nearly non-existent during undergrad. I like the working world schedule and consistency. I was very fortunate to secure what I would consider one of the best gap year jobs possible because it provided a lot of flexibility and didn't keep me stuck in an office all week. The minuscule salary would be the downside. I guess you would call this the young professional stage of life. However, I don't feel very professional considering I still live a life too similar to a college student... yes I still rock the nike tempos, have nothing but lean cuisine and hummus in my fridge, and occasionally go out on a week night. But I guess that's why they call it the young professional. I hope this stage lasts several years because I like it.

I hereby end this blog post with a few goals I have for the upcoming year. Wish me luck!

1. Start a blog (CHECK. I'm off to a fabulous start, aren't I?)
2. Read, read, read... and complete the reading list I created for grad school by... well the start of grad school.
3. Travel abroad.
4. Pray and read the Bible daily (this is a BIG struggle for me).
5. Reach and maintain a healthy weight while following my knee-recovery protocol 100%.

Hellooooo 23!!!