2009 proved to be a very interesting year. It began much the same as other years, but certainly did not end like other years.
I vowed to get back in shape. (as I do every year!) So I began working out again and taking care of myself. I was working 2 jobs and had very little free time. I was a little stressed about not being able to see Brian or my friends as much as I wanted to. Working out too hard too quickly got the best of me and I severely strained both of my hands due to weird yoga positions. I'm a bit of an over achiever and tried to do what the other people in the class were doing...bad idea! Only recently have my hands completely recovered. That really put a damper on my getting back in shape idea.
In February, I turned the big 3-0!! I had long been dreading turning 30, but I managed to celebrate it in a big way! From celebrating with my cousin Andy, to the fiesta my family through me, to my beach party, it was a great time. I was still a little sad about leaving my 20's, but was reminded by everyone around me that I was still young. Although I had my doubts, I put on my game face and continued on...
The next few months consisted of working, hanging with friends, and going to Brian's on the weekends. Still no takers on the house. I began to wonder if it would ever sell. Here I was, with my boyfriend for almost three years wondering when we will be able to move on with our lives. Although Brian asked me to move in several times, I always declined. It is not that I don't want to live with him--I do. I just cannot live in that house. Period. Great house, great guy, but too much associated with it.
Summer came. It started off great as all summers due. Went to Hiram for Alumni Weekend, went to various parties. And then, IT happened. The moment I will never forget. Waking up to paramedics standing over me telling me I had a seizure. Riding in an ambulance to the hospital. Seeing my parents rush in making sure I was ok. Finally being released the next day wondering what the hell happened! The next few weeks I practically lived in the doctor's office. After several tests, they diagnosed me with Seizure Disorder, Aka, Epilepsy. I couldn't believe that at age 30, I was an epileptic. Yikes.
The months that followed were very difficult. I spent many days sitting around feeling sorry for myself. I was given medication--two at first, but after six weeks, was down to one. I had on energy, no motivation. I couldn't drink alcohol, or caffeine. I couldn't drive for three months. The medical bills were piling up. I had to rely on my familly, friends, or boyfriend to take me places. I was useless at work. Lucky for me, I have so many people that were there for me and helped me through all of it. It it wasn't for all of the special people in my life, I never would have gotten through it.
In September, our beloved dog, Lacey passed away after almost 17 years with us. I will never forget her and how happy she made us. She was a part of our family that can never be replaced. I hope to one day meet her again.
My mom and I started line dancing classes. I couldn't believe how much I loved it! We tried out our new dances at the annual Western Party. I caught up with some cousins there and they all came up to me and hugged me and asked how I was doing. It was really nice to know that they cared that much for me. By the end of September, I was feeling much better and was looking forward to the end of the year.
Once I was able to drive again in October, my mood began to improve, although I was still torn up about losing our Lacey. I was happier and tried to continue on with my life like nothing had ever happened. I quit my second job so I could take better care of myself. I went out with friends, slowly started drinking caffeine and some alcohol again, and tried to be the old Amy I was before my seizure.
At Thanksgiving, Jenny and Justin were able to come home. It was nice to see her and hang out with her for a few days. Sadly, we haven't seen her since, but hope to soon!
On December 4th, I received a text in the morning from dad. It said that Grandpa Robinson had passed away. I was shocked! I called him right away and could tell how upset he was. As parents usually do, he said that he was ok and didn't need me to take off work. I was hesitant, but let him know if he changed his mind, I would be with him in a second! As I was pulling in to work, he called me and asked me if I could go with him to get Grandpa's belongings. Of course I said yes and left work immediately. The funeral was nice and they did the 21 gun salute in the cemetery. Dad received the flag, and it was one of those moments you know you will never forget. We all ate dinner after the funeral and then went for a beer in honor of Grandpa. "Have a beer bud", as Grandpa always said.
Christmas and New Year's were nice. The only person missing was Jenny, but due to unfortunate circumstances, she was unable to come home. I was surrounded by lots of family and friends. I enjoyed spending extra time with Brian and hoped that maybe in 2010, his house would sell and we could get a place of our own.
As the year came to an end, I thought about all of the things that had happened in 2009. My dad had told me that although we all had a tough year, somehow it brought us closer. He was right. Sometimes it takes something bad to happen to realize all the good things you have in your life. I am very fortnate that I do have so many wonderful people in my life that truly care for me. I have a job. I have a roof over my head. It could be worse. I could have nothing. And then where would I be?
Let's hope 2010 proves to have some positive things happen---to all of us!!!
