So I usually reflect on the past year and write something literary and meaningful but this year I think I'll count down my 11 most memorable moments and add 1 wish for the new year. So here we go:
11. Spending every single day @ the high school where I conducted interviews for my thesis even though I didn't need to be there everyday. For me, being there everyday provided extra insight. I was a researcher not just a grad student. I observed any and every thing I could. I knew the that high school in and out and that's all I needed in order to feel like this was 'research.'
10. My 30th birthday. Some part of me wanted to celebrate 30 in such a way that would be "larger than life," instead I spent a low key night out with friends. I spent my 30th with some of the most important people in my life since moving to SA. I wouldn't change any of it.
9. Being hired with the Autism Treatment Center. Although it has been a rough ride and I do need a change of pace now, having the chance to work in the home as a caregiver for 7 children with Autism has given me a new appreciation for life.
8. Maintaining a 4.0 GPA as a graduate student. Although it doesn't really mean anything in the grand scheme of things, my GPA says something about my devotion and/or commitment to doing something I love. I wish I could use it to land my ideal job!
7. Speaking of jobs...working with TLMP was as incredible learning experience, opportunity, and joy! Not only did it open doors for me, but I met so many wonderful people along the way. I am forever grateful for the time spent @ UTSA with the Read Malawi! team.
6. Spending the first three weeks of 2011 in Africa with people I respect and learn from daily. Africa is absolutely mind blowing. Although I haven't seen the entire continent, the locations that I have been lucky enough to visit have changed me. I have yet to see more beautiful sunsets, eat more wonderful food, and/or experience more humanity and genuine concern for another human than when I've been to Malawi.
5. My trip to El Paso in August. My friend base from EPT is unlike any other and I would be someone else if not for them. I'm glad to have been able to gather friends and enjoy company for dinner. I'm happy that dad and I had some time together, time that can't be shared with just anyone - and I'm tickled that dad didn't just let me shoot the AR-30, but that he wanted me to.
4. Completing, defending, and submitting my thesis. Although my defense was less 'traditional' than usual, it was still an unreal experience that I almost don't even remember. I know that I felt like I was sitting outside of myself and watching it all happen rather than experiencing it first hand. I remember that my committee gave me a hug, a kiss, and a high five. I remember thinking that I'd never felt the way I did that morning. Mostly, I remember crying when I wrote my dedication and acknowledgment page and as I walked away from the Graduate School the morning I turned in the hard copies.
3. Making time to see my friends at least once a month regardless of how busy or chaotic things are. Having monthly girl's nights have been imperative to my survival in San Antonio. There's nothing like spending a few hours talking, venting, laughing, and of course, drinking with your favorite people. When I feel off balance, I know I can call my friends and I'll be ok again. I hope they feel the same.
2. Bringing home my kitten, Strauss. I don't know what it was that made me decide to get a pet but I'm happy I did. She has been a source of entertainment, joy, comfort, and love. Sometimes she's a brat and I'm convinced she's more feral than domesticated but I wouldn't give her up for anything.
1. Commencement. Not only the ceremony, which in itself was a defining moment for me, but also that I had so much support and love on my side. My family and friends came from all over to celebrate with me and it was probably the most memorable weekend of the entire year. I can't thank everyone enough and I'm not even sure 'thank you' is enough but just know that I felt incredibly special. Thank You!
My wish for 2012: To start the next book, chapter, piece of this amazing life. I know I will continue finding the pieces that make me feel whole but I think I'll stop looking so hard. It seems I find the pieces when I least expect. Happy New Year to you and may it be wonderful.
Until Next Time,
Courtney Chivon
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