Lessons

2010 has been a big year for me. I moved probably 5 or 6 times in 2010. I opened up 2 new shops on Etsy. I learned how to do many new things. But I think the biggest things I learned were about myself. I learned who I am. How to be independent, and what I really want in life. 2010 was full of ups and downs. Let me tell you, some of those downs were truly downs. Some days were full of tears and being lonely. Some were full of happiness and being alone. Life is all about progress and lessons. Trials make a person stronger and I am truly thankful for the trials from 2010, because they will equal the blessings in 2011.

I have learned some wonderful lessons, since it is almost the new year I would love to share them with you. I hope more than anything to help people who are also struggling with getting out of a relationship, or dealing with depression, or loneliness.

Lessons Learned:

Love is not a bank statement.
Money is not success.
Leave the ones who don't treat you right.
Love the ones who do.
Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
Make peace with your past so it won't mess up the future.
Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
Don't get attached to too many material processions. They truly don't matter.
Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
There is no such thing as the perfect timing.
If you wait for the perfect moment, you will miss many small moments.
Forgive everyone every time, but remember, forgiveness and trust are two different things.
Believe in miracles.
Go outside every day. 
Look at the tree.
No matter how you feel, get up, get dressed and do something.
Pebbles and acorns make beautiful gifts.
Don't be afraid to love again and again.
Happiness really is a choice. Choose it.
Take deep breaths.
Laugh often, even if you have to laugh at yourself.
The heart is a muscle, when a muscle is torn it grows back stronger.
Create daily, even if it's just cooking a meal.
If you love someone, tell them often. You can never say you love someone too much.
If you don't love someone, don't say it. There is nothing worse than false hope.
Drive slowly, take the back roads. Stop and take pictures.
Go on adventures.
Take silly pictures of yourself.
Don't take yourself too seriously.
Alone doesn't mean lonely.
You don't have to be alone to be lonely.
Forgive the way a dog does. Grudges are bad for your heart.
Believe in magic.
Take risks, be brave.
If you ever have to question if you love someone still... you already have your answer.
Don't live with regrets.
Guilt and fear will only hold you back.
Be yourself, there is no one like you.
Being nice is not a weakness. Nice people are the bravest strongest people there are.
Life isn't wrapped in a pretty bow, but it is still a gift.

My heart is filled with joy as I reflect on this past year. I am sitting in the living room at my parents house, texting new years plans with a friend and sipping tea. Mowgli is snuggling with me on one side, Fungus on the other. The world is a beautiful place if you just open your eyes wide enough.