Somebody Lurks In The Shadow

Man oh man. It's been a long winter of hibernation in terms of a lot of things. Travelled a bit so I was away from Austin a lot of the time. After having the most awesome Christmas dinner with my intermediate family rather than extended (so great!), I took off on a 10 day sailing trip through the British Virgin Islands. It was the most relaxing thing imaginable - no joke. Visited about 6-7 different islands, drank Pain Killers like a mad man, night ocean swims, sleeping on the tramp just about every opportunity I had, and just - relaxed. My favorite part of the trip was our extended 2 night stay in Anegada island. Most secluded beach I've ever been to and the bars/restaurants were to die for.

So with that said - I get back to Austin in early January, and what do you know? All perspectives have changed. That trip is going to be known as a pivotal point in my life. I came back thinking differently - about a lot of things. Tired of being sad or mad (thanks 2009 great depression!). Just freshly promoted at work, so clearly working like a dog. After duking it out with The Devil Wears JC Penney, I finally got the promotion I deserved (and out of cycle, mind you). It's really refreshing to finally be appreciated at work for all of the efforts I put in, it just took time AND patience. Perhaps it's a little sad, but the promotion is also something that uplifted my moods. I'm here on this earth to succeed, keep moving, and have a blast - so it just works out so very nicely.

It's been so cold in Austin, and I've basically been lurking in the shadows in terms of not really going out as much (or at all) during the week and just laying low with weekend plans. I'm not planning any huge travelling so far in the foreseeable future (next few weeks, ha!), so learning that I don't always have to go out and be extremely social has been a wonderful thing. I like showcasing my secret single behavior while at home with a glass (ok a few glasses) of red, red wine. I like one on one activites with friends. I like talking, listening, and learning. Soon the sun will be out to play again, SXSW will happen, and bam! HEAT! ENERGY! BARTON SPRINGS! MARGARITAS! GREEN BELT! JET SKIING! All that makes Austin so magically delicious.

I've been attempting the whole dating thing, even after a huge fiasco in the Fall (uh don't remind me!). Disappointment times a million. I haven't found what I'm looking for and apparently what I'm looking for is a whole lot to ask, so I think I need to just sit still in that department and only take opportunities as they come rather than look. I realized I kind of really like myself. I like my flow, I like how I do things, and I'm beginning to realize I don't really want someone coming into my life to mess that up just yet. I know that sounds a little negative/selfish, but it's just truth. I like me right now.

For now I sit here - pondering if my couch or a night on Red River is more appealing. Time to get out of the shadows? Only time will tell.