The last year has been full of ups and downs.
A year ago today, I was sitting on an airplane on my way back home to Calgary.
That may have been one of the hardest days of my life, but also, one of the best decisions I could have ever made for myself. Although at the time I wasn't sure of my choice, I knew that I was no longer the person I wanted to be, nor was I surrounding myself with the right people.
I have learned some hard lessons;
That people may not always be as they appear,
People take advantage of kindness
and that love isn't as easy as most people think.
This year, I was fortunate enough to bring in the New Year with some of the most amazing people I have ever met. On a whim I had decided to go back to my home away from home, Kelowna. Not knowing what would come of this adventure I tried to keep an open mind and open heart. Nevertheless, I can't deny that I was a little worried that things weren't going to feel right, that perhaps, old friends had changed, moved on, and I would be left feeling just as alone and confused as I was a year ago. To my surprise I was welcomed with open arms and the most love I have felt in a long time.
An amazing friend of mine introduced me to so many incredible people, people that I will never forget and that I will always hold close to my heart. Every single person I met was so accepting of who I am and made me feel so welcome and at home. I realized, that it is these type of people I want to spend my time with...furthermore, it gave me so much hope knowing that there really are great people in this world.
I always loved the fact that I grew up in a big city, nevertheless I am often surprised when I meet new people that are so laid back and easy to get to know. I'll never forget the huggeee skating rink in RJ's back yard with a fire going and the game playing inside- it just felt like a huge family of unreal people coming together and having a fab time. It was even nicer to all sit down together, eat a ridiculously delicious dinner and getting the chance to know everyone a bit better.
To all the wonderful new faces and new friends- you're some the kindest, funniest and care free people I have ever met. Although I only got to spend a couple days with you they were, most likely, some of the best times I've had in a long time. Whether we were playing hilarious balloon games, dancing until uncalled for hours of the night, watching volleyball, or hockey, going on fudgesicle excursions or just lazing around we always managed to have some pretty good laughs. You were all so awesome and I feel truly blessed to have had the chance to meet all of you. Thank you for being so kind and warm and for letting me be a part of your lives.
I was also lucky enough to see some old faces; Cody- your such a huge inspiration to me, thanks for letting me "move your limbs" and next time I'll be sure to bring some cake! Shaun- You're such an unreal friend and so much fun to be around. I don't think I've ever met someone who loves Dane Cook just as much as me! Jame and Cass- You're my girls and I love you so much! Jame: "So Hannah met a boy, I think she's in love!" Cass: "YESSS!!!! She's moving back for sure!" Rich- You're one of the strongest and most amazing people I know. Thank you for really listening.
Whatever challenges, adventures and changes await me in the next year I feel confident saying that I am now in place where I'm surrounded by a group of incredibly supportive and loving people. Furthermore, I have grown in ways I would have never imagined for myself. Where my life takes me is within my control, and my control alone. I have every opportunity to succeed, and more importantly, every opportunity to support those around me. I never believed this to be true but I can now vouch that it is- In order to take care of others, and to surround yourself with people that will love and care for you as much as you do them, you must learn to love and take care of yourself first. Become the person that you wish to be, stay true to yourself and only happiness will follow.
"All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us."
There are some people that I will never understand,
