Happy New Year!
This time last year I was in complete turmoil. I was working ungodly long hours at work under very stressful circumstances. As a result, I was facing what would become the end of my military career. A blanket of uncertainty and big thunderous cloud of acid rain hovered over me.
In March I left the military and returned home to Pensacola, FL, now without a job and not much of a clue of what would lay ahead. I had very little money, and if it wasn’t for my awesome parents, I would have surely been up the creek without a paddle. I became one of the 20% of 18 to 34 year olds that were returning home after failing, falling, being fired, laid off or terminated.
I spent the first month doing nothing… trying to let everything sink in, and get my bearings. In April I started working on resumes and began the job hunt. At the same time, I rekindled a serious friendship with my life long best friend and partner Victoria. With her, I was able to get a job at a local gas station and as a result started to turn my life around.
Over the last year, reconnecting with Victoria has by far been the best thing that could happen. In her I found a new sense of life and purpose. In her, I have experienced a very special love and in her kids, have found an awesome place to pour some of my love into.
After working at the gas station for a few months, I finally landed a full time aviation job with Aviation Systems of Northwest Florida, building training aids for various customers.
With my new job, and the significant pay raise, I was able to really enjoy the holiday season. I didn’t have to worry about anything. It is a complete 360 from this point last year where I was worrying about everything.
All and all, 2009 was a fantastic year, and I predict that 2010 will be just as great. I’m not too big on resolutions, but I do have some goals for the new year, mostly dealing with money.
I want to reduce my debt. I owe my parents my first born after all the money they have helped me with. Repaying them is one of my highest priorities. They aren’t rich, so I know the money will be helpful. I also have credit card debt, and really need to get rid of that so I can rebuild my credit line. Looking forward into 2011, I want to get a nice place to live on my own, or with Victoria should she want to join me.
Repairing my truck is next on the list after getting my debt under control. I smashed the front end almost two years ago, and still have not gotten it repaired! Once I get my truck fixed, I can start to have fun with it: paint job, accessories, sound, wheels, etc.
All along the way, I plan to stash and save extra cash where and when I can, building up an emergency fund and replenishing and rebuilding my savings.
When everything is under control, and I feel like it won’t hurt me, I want to try to get a new computer. Specifically, a new iMac. I want a custom model so it’s gonna cost me, but if I save and be patient I know I can get it. It may be a Christmas present to myself. Who knows?
Finally, I want to continue to build and grow my various projects, with The Speedzine at the top of the list. I have yet to commit and finish a full racing season with this project. That is my goal this year. I want to have regular content generation and timely news throughout the whole season. I know it will be challenging, but I feel if I dedicate myself to the one project, and tinker with others at minimum, then I know I can do it.
2009 was great, and I have no regrets for the past year. I leave 2009 excited about continuing my good fortunes into 2010. I hope you too are looking forward to a great 2010.
What are your New Year’s Resolutions? Leave the below in the comments section. Thanks for reading and Happy New Year!
