2010 - The Year in Review

Can't believe it's almost time to usher in a New Year already - where did 2010 go? Before I go out and try to finish my Christmas Shopping on a busy Saturday, I thought I'd catch up on blogging and reflect on the year so far.

I got to have some fun times this year, trekking to Walker, MN for concerts by former Guns N' Roses guitarist Slash and his solo band in May and to see popular rock bands Hinder and Saving Abel in September, which made a good beginning to my week-long vacation too. I was also fortunate enough to attend three Twins games at the brand-new Target Field this summer - I'll have to go back for more games next year so I can actually see the Twins win at the new ballpark! My old car gave me plenty of problems last winter, so buying a new one in January helped me get around, especially when I went to see Star Wars in Concert in July at the Xcel Energy Center and round out my concert season for the year at First Avenue in Minneapolis last month to see Sevendust, 10 Years, and My Darkest Days.

I also got to enjoy some quality time with family and friends this year, attending my cousin Jay's wedding in Tofte in August and my high school 20th reunion in Richmond that same month. Those get-togethers are always fun! I also caught up with my godparents in September as I saw them for the first time in 8 years when they drove to Richmond for Jay's family reception. I also got to see some friends and family in concert this year, as my friend Aaron and his band the Slack played at the ol' Side Bar in Cold Spring, and my cousin Libby and her jazz/pop/R&B accompaniment played a private fundraiser in the Legends Club in Target Field last month.

Unfortunately, I also said goodbye to some family and friends this year too - my old classmate Duane who lost a long battle with a brain tumor, my friend Aaron's mom (we were neighbors when I was very little), my great-aunt Liesl in Vienna, my uncle Bill's dad "Red" (who made it to the ripe old age of 103) and my Aunt Helen who bravely fought a tough but swift battle with terminal liver disease.

I've also had a tough time at times this year with a family member's struggle to battle with addiction, and work has been busy and stressful at times this year too. I try to make the best of it, and I think that the good times I've had this year has helped balance out the bad.

Well, that's all I have for now, so take care and happy holidays, everyone!!!