mandaloo . com

i saw the following 2008 “review” on ann’s blog and liked it so much that i decided to copy it for mandaloo.com…

HIGH POINT OF THE YEAR?
getting married to the most amazing friend, comedian, and companion in the world.

LOW POINT OF THE YEAR?
seeing someone i love hurt and losing trust in individuals.

LESSON LEARNED THIS YEAR?
many lessons learned this year but the one that was a theme is an oldie: actions speak louder than words.

BEST HOLIDAY?
i always love christmas time and it will probably always win hands down. i was sick but it was still nice to celebrate it in our home this year.

SONG FOR 2008?
“Collide” by Howie Day

BEST MOVIE OF 2008?
the dark knight totally rocked

BEST BOOK OF 2008?
i don’t read. it’s sad and i’m not proud of it, but jeromy and i have been reading the new testament every night for a good while now. does the bible count?

BEST TV SHOW OF 2008?
the shield kept me on the edge of my seat this year. sad that the series ended.

ANY REGRETS?
working too much and not taking a trip this year.

BEST DECISION MADE THIS YEAR?
probably some recent ones involving getting back to church and realigning other important priorities.

BIGGEST CHANGE OF THE YEAR?
many changes this year – settling into a house, getting married, becoming a two dog household…

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR NEXT YEAR?
big picture: improving spiritually, physically, etc. and preparing for a family.

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR NEXT YEAR?
work less. spend more time with my spouse (sitting in the living room working on photo edits/work doesn’t count). spend more time with my family. go on a trip. continue to be active in church and grow spiritually with jeromy. save money. cook more (and get better at it as a result). plan/prepare for a family. increase my knowledge about photography and lighting techniques.

it’s been a good year, but it’s had its share of low points and mistakes. i’m looking forward to 2009 and the exciting things it will bring. i got wrapped up in some things this year that took my eye off from what really matters. and it’s been only in the last month or so that i’ve kinda reclaimed myself. just the baby steps in the past few weeks have resulted in some great improvements and buckets of peace. stoked for 2009? you bet.

happy new year.