After this, I might spend the rest of the week writing detailed recaps of certain events. I apologize in advance, but I want to have my memories in writing. If you already know what I've been doing (or never wanted to know in the first place), I suggest waiting until next week before you read my blog.
So, without any further ado, here is a brief recap of the last year of my life:
- I got my master's degree in sports journalism from Indiana University's National Sports Journalism Center. Although it hasn't paid any dividends yet (in terms of finding a job), I learned a lot, grew as a journalistic writer, had some pretty awesome opportunities, and met some incredible people. All that being said, I'm glad it's done. Here come the loan payments.
- While in school, I got to cover the NCAA Men's Basketball Midwest Regional in Indianapolis (in other words, the Sweet 16 and Elite 8). I watched Louisville beat Oregon, 77-69, and Duke defeat Michigan State, 71-61. Then, the next night, I watched in horror as Kevin Ware shattered his leg before his teammates trounced Duke, 85-63. I also got to cover the Indianapolis 500, an event I never thought I'd like in a million years, but really loved.
- My brother was deployed on the U.S.S. Boxer (the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit). He comes back in April and I'm already counting down the days.
- My sister graduated from Miami and I couldn't be more proud of her.
- I met the guy of my dreams, the one I've been waiting for and crying over for years. He was worth every second of the wait.
- I interned at USA Football, the sport's governing body. I wrote feature stories for the website (some of which were also run by official NFL team websites), created media releases, and did other odds and ends around the office. Through the internship, I also worked the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium.
- Jenn moved in with her boyfriend, some of my very best friends got engaged (CJ, Eric, TJ, Tasha, Sarah, Corbin), some of my friends had babies (Katie, Brad, Matt), and some of my friends/family got married (Sam, Tabitha, Matt). We're growing up, guys.
- I lost 26 pounds without really trying. Apparently, walking to class every day and being too lazy to cook for myself had its perks. Now that I'm unemployed and out of school, I'm forcing myself to work out, but it's tough. Encourage me.
- The Bengals lost the AFC Wild Card playoff game to the Houston Texans. Not even J.J. Watt's smile served as consolation. After winning the first two games, the Reds were defeated in the NLDS by the San Francisco Giants, 3-2. I blamed everyone. The Penguins were swept by the Boston Bruins in the Eastern Conference Finals and my boyfriend finally saw my true colors.
- I took awesome trips to Gatlinburg, Baltimore, Memphis, San Diego, and Las Vegas. Recaps to come.
- I experienced many memorable firsts, including my first UFC fight, MLS game, locker room interview, Indianapolis Indians game, viewing of Hoosiers, Butler basketball game, deep-fried Oreo, and Orioles game.
As you can see, it's been a busy year. I'm still kicking myself for not blogging about it all.
...and that's what you've missed on BLET.
HAHAHAHA. I love that you recapped an entire year. Ummmm, you really did a lot since you last blogged. That is a whole bunch of stuff and it's all pretty awesome. I FEEL CHEATED OUT OF READING ABOUT IT.
ReplyDeleteAgain, so glad you're back. Speaking of...will you be around here any time soon?
I've missed you. I spent all last night reading every single one of your posts that is available to read. I'm not joking. I don't have plans to be home in the next week. I'm really busy getting ready to move into my new apartment and Eric and CJ are getting married next weekend! BUT, hopefully after that, I'll come home. I MISS YOU.
Delete"Hi, I'm Paul!" ..... "Hello, motherf*cker."
ReplyDelete