2011

1. What did you do in 2011 that you’d never done before?
I Skyped. I became a Lifeguard Instructor Trainer (I teach people to teach Lifeguarding), and a Water Safety Instructor Trainer with the Red Cross. I gave blood on my birthday. My friends blind folded me, kidnapped me, dressed me up in 80s garb, and took me to a surprise birthday dinner. I met my friend at the airport after she spent five months in Ireland and I totally jumped in her arms and we spun around, movie style. We went to Folk Life in Seattle Center. I went to Hoop Fest in Spokane. I went on an epic road trip with Audrey and my best friend. I became the mother of a four-year-old. Justin and I celebrated 6 years of marriage. We surfed for two days straight. I got fired (ask me about it if you want, it's a long story). Modeled for some photo shoots. Realized I have some of the best friends anyone could ask for.

2. Did you keep your new year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year?

Here’s what I wrote last year, with my updates beneath.

Okay, looking ahead to 2011:

• Do more artsy stuff. I miss it. Well, I sort of did this.

• Get in shape. Lose five pounds. Gain muscle. Nope. I didn't do very well at this one.

• Do the splits. I'm getting closer. I tore something in my groin, so I haven't been able to do much in the way of flexibility.

• Nurture Audrey's artistic side. I see it developing! She draws, colors, and paints all the time. It's the only thing she has an attention span for (much like me).

• Grow out my hair. I'm doing well so far...we'll see how long I can stand it. I did! I grew it to my shoulders and then cut it off...

• Really get into the bible. Every day. Well, I did better this year, but still working on it.

• Get a hat trick (three goals in one game) in hockey. Almost.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?

I became an aunt twice this year and my cousin also had a baby. Along with countless others.

4. Did anyone close to you die?

No.

5. What countries did you visit?
None, but we're going to Cabo in a couple of days...I don't think that counts.

6. What would you like to have in 2012 that you lacked in 2011?
Discipline. Direction. Patience. An awesome career now that Audrey will be starting school.

7. What dates from 2011 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?

January 16. Memorial Day weekend. July 4. July 28. October 9.

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?

Let me get back to you on that one.

9. What was your biggest failure?
Well, there are a few.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
I had to get a biopsy on my thyroid. They found abnormal cells which they have to keep an eye on. I also got my first sinus infection, ugh.

11. What was the best thing you bought?
I just got an iPhone. I can't think of anything else right now.

12. Where did most of your money go?
Vacations. Medical bills. College loans...lame.

13. What did you get really excited about?
My friend coming home. Summer. Cabo!

14. What song will always remind you of 2011?
Party Rock Anthem by LMFAO

15. Compared to this time last year, are you:

– happier or sadder? The same.
– thinner or fatter? Fatter.
– richer or poorer? The same. Pretty much.

16. What do you wish you’d done more of?

Swimming. Snowboarding. Seeing my best friends.

17. What do you wish you’d done less of?

Worrying. Getting poked with needles in the neck. Dealing with people who didn't deserve my time.

18. How did you spend Christmas?
We always have three. Christmas Eve with my family, and then with Justin's mom, and Christmas morning with his dad

19. What was your favorite TV program?
Modern Family, Community, Grey's Anatomy.

20. What were your favorite books of the year?
The Hunger Games trilogy.

21. What was your favorite music from this year?

Sara Bareilles, ADELE, Eli Lieb...

22. What were your favorite films of the year?
Black Swan, No Strings Attatched, Colombiana

23. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
I gave blood on my actual birthday. Later that week my friends kidnapped me for a surprise birthday dinner complete with 80s clothing.

24. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
Less "little man" syndrome in those around me...

25. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2010?
Same as always...comfortable.

26. What kept you sane?
My amazing friends.

27. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2011.

If you find people who get you and back you up no matter what, keep them in your life because it's kind of a rare quality these days.