Smell Ya Later, 2013

2013 was a year of significant changes and challenges, but it also had its joys and its firsts.  These things combined, it was a year of considerable growth for me.  To celebrate the end of this year, here are some highlights of some of the adventures I've posted about (and a few I haven't)!

I got Invisalign - an exercise in humility (but the end is near!)

I attempted to grow some things and bought some house plants - a disastrous undertaking, as they are more or less all dead

I redecorated my living room a bunch of times - an exercise in problem solving

One of my dearest friends came to live with me - a time of sisterhood and fellowship (and motivation for getting the guest room done)

I learned to shoot a gun with an alarming degree of accuracy (apparently) - a time of being awesome

I started doing Spinning and CrossFit - a literal exercise in surprise for everyone, none more than me

I ran/walked my first 5k - an exercise in an ugly sweater

I bought a banjo and started taking lessons - an exercise in patience for me AND for my roommate, L

I had my first audition for an opera company - an exercise in running in heels and then singing one of the hardest coloratura arias ever

I prepared and performed a recital for the first time in more than a decade - an exercise in artistic growth and rebirth

I sang in a performance of Handel's "Messiah" for the first time in many years - which was a time of sweet, classical worship, and the highlight of my Christmas season

There were also a lot of performances here and there, some weddings, L's engagement (just a few days ago!), some travel, a lot of reflection and rest, a LOT of busy periods at work.  Phew!

Thanks for following my adventures in 2013, my friends and readers!  2014 promises to be an exciting year, and I'm looking forward to a fresh start.