Hillside Manor 2013

I think I've seen more changes this year than in any other.  First of all, my sister (aka, Mrs. Ginger) got married.  Though I wasn't directly involved, it was a very new experience, and one my whole family enjoyed.  I also wrote another novel for NaNoWriMo, which may prove to be something important later.  But, the rest those changes center around a wonderful lady that you all know as Rose.  

For the first half of the year, things were a bit shaky between us, and we spent a lot of time trying to avoid each other, but it just didn't work.  Eventually, we developed things into a working relationship, and it was good, for the most part.

It wasn't all sunshine and roses though.  We had our share of fights, and even one or two situations that really tested our resolve.  These were the kind of situations that might have broken another couple, which I think proves how much we're meant for each other.

Rose has taught me all kinds of things about myself that I never would have realized otherwise.  She helped me to value myself just for being who I am, which was something I hadn't really done before.  I helped her to feel wanted and showed her that she was beautiful, even when she didn't see it herself.  Rose also helped me to get a lot of general life things done.  The kind of things I would have put off until doomsday, but turned out to be mostly uncomplicated.  

I've learned a lot about communication in the time I've been with Rose.  I think it's helped me to communicate and understand her, and others, better.  I think I'm helping her in certain areas of life as well.  We've both changed and grown a lot as people in the time we've known each other.  

I've had a lot of new life experiences as well.  I've gone on small adventures, and a few big ones, and I've tried a lot of things I might not have tried on my own.  I really love having someone around who is so full of ideas and helps me get excited about life.  She also woke up something inside of me that helped me rediscover the spiritual side of my life, and I think I did the same for her, in some fashion.  It's been something I value very much, and I think it's helped both of us to grow together.

This story isn't over by any means.  Although we have been essentially a couple for just over a year, we're still not quite 'official'.  I'm sure it will be happening any day now though, so I'm happy to wait knowing that this countdown will be over soon.

This leads me to my next thought: while I have a special place in my heart for this blog, I feel that my life has changed so much over the past year that this blog no longer feels like 'home' to me.  I enjoy all the code names for people in my life, but there's a part of me that wants to be more open and honest about everything.  Also, this blog offers only a certain amount of topics I can touch on, and I'd prefer to talk about other, more varied topics, the sort that may not fit here.  I'm not saying this is my last post here.  I'm only considering my options at the moment.  I may continue posting here every now and then, or I may come back in a different form.  In any case, I want you all to know I appreciate every one of your kind words, advice, or even just amusing comments.  It's been a crazy year, and I wish you all the best in the one ahead!  Happy New Year!

Dave