Highlights from 2006

no new year's resolutions for me this year. but, i have been reflecting on 2006. all in all it was a pretty good year.

highlights:

1. I got a real job this year, with a real salary and real responsibilities. I'm program director for the ACCESS project at Hamilton College. I started the job part-time last September, and assumed the position full-time in December. At last a job that serves as an outlet for my intelligence and creativity. So much better than teaching composition and introductory literature classes on a part-time basis.

2. Adopted a big ass dog named Smith. This dog has changed my life, and taught me so many things. I've lost 30 pounds just by walking him about 3 hours a week. So, he had been good for my health. He has also schooled me about patience, responsibility and the need for a care-free attitude.

3. I was awarded a National Endowment of the Humanities fellowship this year. I got to spend one month in Appalchia studying the region and interviewing environment justice activists. I met a lot of interesting people, made some good friends, and finally finished an article based on my research there.

4. Finally got rid of the awful safari wall paper in my bathroom downstairs, as well as the equally awful burnt-orange paint in my kitchen. These monstrosities were courtesy of the previous owner. Both rooms were re-painted in a light and bright green known as "tart apple."

5. I grew a kick-ass, huge (12 x12)vegetable garden in my back yard. We enjoyed red potatoes, brussel sprouts, eggplant, green beans, tomatoes, red peppers, and jalepeno peppers.

6. Enjoyed a nice getaway to Washington D.C. this year. All pleasure and no business. My kind of trip.

7. My mother survived brain surgery and has recuperated nicely. She is back to her old self.

I'm sure there were other highlights I'm not thinking of right now. But 2006 was good. I just hope 2007 is equally good.

jb