2 EL (take two): Hello 2015

Today seemed like a good time to write a blog post since it's new beginnings and all. (My last post was almost a year ago!)

I truly love New Years Day. It feels so fresh and clean while having this weird feeling of nostalgia while I analyze the past year's accomplishments and failures. I have plenty of goals for 2015. I made a list of 15 things that I would like to do or change with number 15 being to stop making so many lists.

But I will make one more list that seems worth while. Here is a look back at 10 highlights of 2014!

1. Trip to California
I got to see the Rose Parade, some awesome friends, and figured out that I don't particularly love LA.

Hanging with the Fazakerleys

JM gave me a tour of Universal Studios

My favorite float from the parade

2. Weight Loss Challenge.
Dathan and I started a weight loss challenge. He is winning but there are still 2 months left! I'm pretty sure I'm paying for his trip to Chicago this coming year. We have people rooting for us!

Teams

A little motivation

3. Micaela's Wedding
Micaela is one of the sweetest and most giving friends I have. I miss her like WOAH. I was so glad to be there on her special day and spend time with her on the days leading up to the wedding.

4. Spike Heels
Honest Theatre's first production was "Spike Heels" and I got to be in it! I am so thankful for the opportunity and experience. I played a character that I came to love and worked with my talented friends.

5. 4th of July
You guys!!!! I really love my family, the Black Hills, and the 4th of July. This year I got all 3 in one long, amazing weekend!

4th of July treats

A friendly game of Botchy Ball

Cousins

Mama and Me

6. "Clemente"
I can't even find the words to describe this show. It challenged me as an artist and as a person, I sang in I don't know how long, and I met some truly amazing people! It was just...I can't even....ahhhh! All the feeeeeeeels!!!

7. Pittsburgh
The whole cast traveled to Pittsburgh for Clemente. And it was just, like, the best week ever! We performed on a huge stage for a huge audience that LOVED the story we were telling. It was just a big (and much needed) reminder of why I love acting so much. Plus, spending a relaxing week (while getting paid) with amazing people is pretty neat.

Pirate fans

Love these talented friends

The whole cast!

8. Changing Nanny Families
My darling Evelyn moved away to Michigan with her family (they still visit Chicago sometimes. I got to see them before Christmas). So I started with a new family and baby, Evan! He was a little older than 2 months when I started, and now is 7 months. He is such a little lover and cuddler and smiles all day long! I mean just look at this kid!

Evie and I looking at Christmas lights

9. Becky's Wedding
My Becky, whom I lived with all four years of college, laughed with and cried to, drank too much tequila with, and whom I have prayed that she find a man who is deserving of all her goodness...got married! I made a quick trip to North Dakota for the wedding. She was stunning, the wedding was beautiful, and I really like her husband!

Side not: They had their first date while she was staying with me in Chicago. She came home that night after their date glowing and I thought "Yup, this is it." So, BASICALLY, I'm the reason they are together ;)

10. Christmas
This Christmas the four of us were together for a week! I think I ate more cookies than I thought possible! I also got addicted to the Settlers of Catan. I just enjoyed spending time with my family and relaxing.