Reflections on 2011

One of the sites I follow, posted these 20 Questions for a New Year’s Eve Reflection. We'll, I'm going to take advantage of some down time and answer these now. I thought it made a great topic to post on. :)

1. What was the single best thing that happened this past year?

--I started a successful accountability relationship. She has become my best friend.

2. What was the single most challenging thing that happened?

--My cousin (the only one on my dad's side I was even remotely close to at the time) being arrested, tried, and convicted of murder.

3. What was an unexpected joy this past year?

--Making some great friends in the blogging world. I would have probably never met some of them had it not been for this space to share my heart.

4. What was an unexpected obstacle?

--The loss of a "friendship" with someone I had thought was sent to help me with my walk.

5. Pick three words to describe 2011.

--Glad it's over

6. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe your 2011 (don’t ask them; guess based on how you think your spouse sees you).

--Drama Drama Drama (mostly outside of course)

7. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe their 2011 (again, without asking).

--Just another year

8. What were the best books you read this year?

--Grace for the Good Girl (not completely done, but definitely the best)

9. With whom were your most valuable relationships?

--My husband, My sister, my parents, Kelsey (my accountability partner), Jackie (my mentor)

10. What was your biggest personal change from January to December of this past year?

--Believing I am valuable enough to stand up for what I believe is right without fearing what the outcome may be.

11. In what way(s) did you grow emotionally?

--My fears don't have as much control over me as they once did.

12. In what way(s) did you grow spiritually?

--I have consistently read through the bible, had a successful accountability relationship, and have began to learn exactly what trusting God looks like in my life.

13. In what way(s) did you grow physically?

--I started to (and enjoyed) working out...that is until my gym closed unexpectedly last month.

14. In what way(s) did you grow in your relationships with others?

--I have began to recognize those who deserve my trust and respect and those who don't before getting too attached. (This my sound like a step backwards but for me it's a step forward)

15. What was the most enjoyable part of your work (both professionally and at home)?

--I found a job that I truly enjoy and find rewarding. I learn to love it more each day, even on the bad days.

16. What was the most challenging part of your work (both professionally and at home)?

--Learning how to best diffuse the behaviors before the clients are in a full blown out behavior

17. What was your single biggest time waster in your life this past year?

--It's a tie...facebook and pinterest

18. What was the best way you used your time this past year?

--Spending time with my dad, sister and husband

19. What was biggest thing you learned this past year?

--How to not get overwhelmed with the everyday facts that I cannot control.

20. Create a phrase or statement that describes 2011 for you.

--The hardest year of my life thus far, yet the most personal growth I've had to date as well.

I'd love to hear about your inputs on 2011.