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!