Five things I want to do in my life

Someone probably built this house by hand. (Skaftafell Park, Iceland)

I used to have a “30 things to do before I’m 30” list. While I didn’t accomplish everything on it, I gave it a try (25/30). I figure I got the big things done: Before 30 I managed to save up some money (which is allowing me to have an extended unemployment as I find something I really want to do, rather than just jumping back into an unfulfilling role), I established a career, I traveled a lot (celebrating the big 3-0 solo in Japan last year), I fell in love with a man with whom I’d like to explore the rest of my life, and I think I have a better grasp on who I am then I ever did in my 20s.

So instead of having a short-term deadline like last time, I’m looking big picture.

The year in (200) photos

2011.

How about we recap the year in point form?
If it was down to one word, it would be “happy”.

Places I went:
Mexico: Barra de Potosi & Zihuatanejo
Vancouver Island: Victoria, Nanaimo & Tofino
Alberta: Canmore, Calgary & Edmonton
BC: Lower Mainland, Whistler, Sunshine Coast, Mayne Island, Harrison Hot Springs & Predator Ridge
Japan: Tokyo & Kyoto
US: Skykomish & Leavenworth, WA & Portland, OR

Life events:
Ended relationship
Started amazing relationship with Lefty the Australian
Won a broadcasting award
Turned 30
Moved from my Oak Street apartment
Moved in with Lefty the Australian
Got rid of my car
Changed role at radio station – now a reporter again

Seriously, it’s been an amazing year. Some hard decisions were made, but I couldn’t be happier with the results.

Lefty is the most wonderful man I’ve ever known and his presence has changed my life.

Can’t wait to see what 2012 has in store. 🙂

269: Happy Australian birthday, my darling.

Not my finest wrapping job. (iPhone 4 - September 26th)

His birthday in T-minus one hour. 🙂

Tomorrow night is a joint birthday dinner for just the two of us, as I was in Japan for the big 3-0.  Still wishing I had something to celebrate entering into adulthood.  Wondering if it is cheesy to host one’s own 30th + one month birthday party….

Another day, another photo. Andrea Woo too.

251: Domo Arigato

Leaving on a jet plane. (iPhone 4 - Sept. 8)

Tomorrow I leave for Japan. I’m there for 10 days. I’ve never been to Asia before.

I can’t tell if I’m excited or nervous right now, I figure the two are canceling each other out, leaving me in a slightly catatonic state. I also move two days after returning, so there’s no room for relaxation.

I’m sure Japan will be an adventure, and one I’ll remember fondly for years.  I’m sure I’ll feel the ground move, just a little (or maybe a lot). I’m sure I will eat a lot and I won’t exactly know what they are.

I turn 30 in Kyoto.

I didn’t finish everything I said I would by 30, but in many respects, I’m in a great place. I can’t wait to see where I’ll be, or where I’ll be going, at 31.

The photo throwdown with Andrea Woo returns September 20th. But I can assure you, pictures will be taken every day I’m gone.