So many changes

Wow. It's been almost two years since I've posted on my blog. Even though  I'm probably the only one that reads it, I feel kind of bad. I wanted to wait to post again until I felt inspired, and like I wanted to write out of my own accord, not because I felt like I had to. Lately, I've been reading a lot more blogs than normal, and keep thinking "Why aren't I doing that?" And with that--and the new year--I've decided to give blogging another go (cliche I know).

Let's see: two years. In two years, so much--and yet so little at the same time--has happened. I've switched jobs. I went through a period of unemployment that taught me a lot about myself and has made me grateful for the wonderful job I have now. It wasn't all bad though. In the midst of it, my boyfriend (Mat) and I got a puppy! A beautiful and sweet Boston Terrier named Ella:

We've had her for a little over a year now (we got her right before Christmas in 2011) and she is definitely the life of the party! Always up to something, she makes even the worst day brighter. It's amazing how an animal can influence your moods and make you happy even when you really aren't. :)

I'm also living on my own now...well, with roommates, but my mom is letting us live in her/our house, because she moved out to live with her boyfriend. It's been over a year since that happened, and I've gotten to experience some great roommates and some not so great ones. Quite the experience, let me tell you. The nice thing though about feeling like my mom's house is, in essence, mine, is that I've been doing a lot of little renovations and decorating around the house. I'm in the process of painting my room (more details to come when that's finished) and want to continue to do little updates as time and budget allow. It's actually been really fun, and it's almost like I'm a pseudo home owner! I can't wait for better weather and when I can get outside and start gardening. My head is brimming with ideas about what I want to accomplish both inside and out.

I guess that's it in terms of "newness" in my life. I'm off to enjoy the sun (a rarity in February in Seattle), so with that, enjoy your weekend! I'l be back soon to detail new endeavors, recipes, and doggy adventures!