Out with the Old - In with the New (Year)

     I hate to start this post on a sad note, but I got some terrible news yesterday.  A classmate of mine and his girlfriend were involved in a tragic car accident with a presumed drunk driver.  Both of them passed away. Please keep the Bush and Scott families in your prayers.  These two individuals had everything to look forward to, and they both were good, kind people.  As we start a new year tonight, take time to be thankful for the people in your life and say an extra "I love you."

     To say 2010 had its ups and downs would be a drastic understatement.  My dad is was a small business owner.  After struggling through the current economy conditions, my dad had to file bankruptcy.  My family like so many others has endured financial hardship this year.  I finished my first year of law school with some success.  I can't remember a time when I didn't want to go to law school.  It is so rewarding to actually see this dream come true.  My best friend from college decided to leave the Southeast and move back to her hometown of Dallas, TX.  I have missed seeing her as often as I used to.  My entire family has an almost clean bill of health.  My Gamecocks have had an outstanding year on the field!  Finally, I broke up with my boyfriend of two & half years.  This in itself was an up and down.  It was a down in realizing that the person I loved so much and had thought I was going to be with the rest of my life was really not the "one" for me.  However, my life post-break-up has been enjoyable, entertaining, and lively to say the least.  I can't wait to see want 2011 will bring.  This will be my attitude toward the new year.... (I apologize for the language; check out Bits of Truth for more amazing quotes)

     On to my NYE celebration!  Usually, I don't do anything big for New Year's.  Typically, I spend it with a close group of friends or family.  An oyster roast is on the menu and a bonfire is the centerpiece of the occasion.  These nights are special because I am with the people that mean the most to me.  This year, however, I am doing something BIG! (well big to me)  I am going to the Snyder's Ball at the South Carolina Aquarium.  I don't have any expectations for the night other than to have a fabulous time with great friends.  Kaley and Drew and well as another couple from Columbia that I am good friends with are coming down.  Close friends from high school and law school will be there as well.  And, I am bound to run into other friends that I don't know will be there.  I am excited to dance the night away and ring in 2011.

     I wish each of you a Happy New Year! Please be safe tonight and rock what little time we have left of 2010!

Soulfully,

Ashton