I'm currently watching "The Fog of War", the excellent documentary about Robert S. McNamara, the US Secretary of Defense during the Kennedy and Johnson administrations. I usually put it in just to listen to the Phillip Glass soundtrack, but I always end up paying attention to the film itself. "The Hours" is also played for the same reason, and usually ends with the same result: me sitting on my couch watching when I should be more active.
Despite its tardiness, here's my 2004:
What did you do in 2004 that you'd never done before?
Several things:
1. Start a blog.
2. Go to a therapist.
3. Volunteer at the Bands of America Summer Symposium. This was part of my Journey to Normal.
4. Take a class while working full-time.
Did anyone close to you die?
The director of our department died this year after a long battle with cancer. He was my first boss after being hired full-time out of college, and was an absolutely delightful person to work with. Certainly, one of the most understanding and kind people you could ever meet.
What would you like to have in 2005 that you lacked in 2004?
More money! But then again, who wouldn't say that?!! Also, more motivation to be active.
What date from 2004 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
I don't think any particular date stands out.
What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Hmmm. I suppose the progress I've made in therapy. From the outside, it probably appears to be more than I give myself credit for, but I still feel like I'm digging a tunnel out of prison using a teaspoon.
What was your biggest failure?
Communication breakdowns. Several come to mind, but the top ones are the interactions with my parents, and the total lack of communication after the C incident at Oil Cans.
What was the best thing you bought in 2004?
I made no major purchases this year. However, there were several small things:
1. The Complete Blue Note and Pacific Jazz Recordings of Clifford Brown
2. A much needed upgrade in wardrobe this year: new polo shirts, new jeans, new shorts, New Balance shoes
3. The new shelves from the Container Store
Where did most of your money go?
Food, bills, loan payments (car, student loans).
What song will always remind you of 2004?
There really isn't one.
Compared to this time last year, are you:
Happier or sadder?
On the whole, happier, but not without a lengthy path of sadness to go with it.
Older or wiser?
Wiser.
Thinner or fatter?
The same.
Richer or poorer?
Financially: poorer. Mentally: richer. Emotionally: the same. Spiritually: richer. Physically: the same.
What do you wish you'd done more of?
Exercise. And save money.
What do you wish you'd done less of?
Eating out.
What was your favorite TV program?
1. The Daily Show with John Stewart
2. The Amazing Race
Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?
I've rediscovered some hatred for certain family members that negatively impacted my youth more than they were entitled.
What was your greatest musical discovery?
Any trumpet recording by Clifford Brown.
Top 3 Music releases in 2004 in your opinion?
Didn't keep up with music this year.
What was your favorite film of this year?
I now realize I didn't see many films in 2004. Most looked awful. However, great films I saw this year include "Super Size Me" and "Sideways". Other excellent films that opened in 2003, but are mentioned now, include "Latter Days" and "My Architect". Not a great film, but one I laughed at was "Team America: World Police".
What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
Having my parents act responsibly. For a change.
How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2004?
Polo shirts with jeans or shorts. New Balances. I took a small upgrade in clothing, but in 2005, there will be a large upgrade in my appearance, and that includes fashion.
What kept you sane?
My therapist, my job change and my friends.
Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
There are so many. Matt Damon, Mark Walhberg, Tiki and Ronde Barber, Cooper Anderson, News8 meteorologist Burton Fitzsimmons, plus countless others. However, this list is really no different from any other year.
What political issue stirred you the most?
Both the re-election of this "president" and the pushing of the Federal Marriage Amendment were enormous disappointments this year.
Who did you miss?
Chase. My parents' dog Keila.
Tell of a valuable life lesson learned in 2004:
Look out for yourself. Take care of yourself. No one else will do it for you.
Awww, you miss me! =) I like this post...very inspiring! YAY
Posted by: chase at January 8, 2005 05:11 PM