Two Major Changes
I definitely didn't expect to be engaged to my best friend or be living in our own beautiful house. I knew it was coming, but didn't think it would happen so soon. I'm so excited to become Mrs. Smith. Only 3 more months! The wedding planning has been fun. Can't wait to start all the activities like showers!
Living on my own with my fiancé has been equally wonderful and challenging. I love being able to see him everyday now. I have enjoyed making new memories with him. We managed to fit each other's furniture and belongings in the house. The house is simply perfect for us. I have been learning how to cook and manage my/our laundry. My parents come by a lot of course...LOL! Although not all things have been picture perfect. I have had several moments of frustration and doubt. Moving out for the first time is always nerve racking. Especially when you are a disabled individual. For me, the hardest part is wanting to do everything independently but always needing help. I am grateful to have such a helpful fiancé and two great personal aides. I just wish I could do more by myself. I have always found a way to improve so I'm not giving up.
Zero Doubt
So I graduated and received my bachelor's degree in English in May. I have been working on my craft and looking for a part time job since then. I have had no luck with finding a fitting job. However, I have been able to focus on my passion. I love being creative and being able to inspire people with my writings. I recently went to a writers conference, the CLMP Conference in New York with my mom. I learned so much and feel more confident in continuing to work towards becoming a published author. I wasn't ready to pitch my novel to the literary agents but I have zero doubt that I will be ready to present my novel next December.
One Heartbreaking Loss
Losing my uncle Justin Settoon was the most devastating thing I experienced this year. He was more than my uncle. He was the big brother I ever had. I grew up with him. Realizing that he wouldn't be continuing growing up with me has been more difficult than I imagined. I miss him every day. The holidays weren't the same. Though I have to say I don't have to been completely sad about him missing out on my wedding and other major life events. My future mother-in-law, Kathy, received his cornea. Also, I received a necklace with some of his ashes inside from his mom Cathy. I plan to wrap the necklace around my boquet as I roll down the aisle. I could hear him saying "I ain't really gone. I will always be there."
Seven Blessings from Heaven
So many great things happen this year. I'm most grateful for:
1. Getting to be the ambassador of Very Special Miss Louisiana. Being able to inspire young disabled girls and women, especially in Louisiana, has been amazing. I have met such incredible families. Thanks Mrs Robin Abrams for choosing me. If anyone wants to know information about the pageant, here is the link: http://tarc-hammond.com/very-special-miss-louisiana-pageant.html
The pageant is January 20th! Please sign up!
2. Finally received my college degree after five long, challenging years. The best part was having my big loving family and supportive friends celebrating with me afterwards. It was awesome.
3. Being the first in my dad's family to graduate from college.
4. Getting the most surprising proposal ever. I love the fact that my family was able to keep it a secret and the fact that my aunt Christine captured the whole thing.
5. .Having my talented stepdad designed a perfect house for Brandon and I to live in.
6. Getting to see my dad's family grow stronger and closer.
7. Getting to go New York with my mom, Aunt Shelly, and grandmother Lisa. It was a fun and productive trip!
