Nevertheless, life still offers surprises. And I would like to highlight mine because 1) I saw Michelle Lehnardt do it on her blog a few years back and 2) It's my blog and I'll do what I want to.
2018 Surprises
Non-Book Club
Early this year, I reached out to a handful of female friends and began a book club. But we don't read books. So, we are a Non-Book Club. Clearly. What began as a hope and dream that intellectual women could come together to discuss ideas, hardships, faith and doubt, self-improvement, became a reality. It worked, and women who never knew each other before now text on a regular basis. Our faith has grown, our sisterhood fortified, and nothing can stop us now. This has been, hands down, the highlight of my year.
Break-Up
I've never been in a relationship before; therefore, I've never broken up with anyone before. And though I understand it happens, I'd rather not experience it again, thank you very much. Man, nothing like a break up to teach you how amazing you are while also shoving in your face all of the things you need to improve on.
Music
One of my favorite, most-played songs this year was One Sweet Little Baby, recorded by BYU Singers last year. I just love it and surprisingly, it never got old. Another good one, is Jukebox the Ghost's version of I Love You Always, Forever.
Piano
Due to unforeseen incidents in the greater McKay household, I was able to purchase a new piano this year. And in true Jenny fashion, I couldn't very well go halfway. So I bought a 1960 Steinway Baby Grand. Albert Einsteinway and I have become very close. And there are very few things that bring me greater joy than telling people he's all mine, and spending quality time with him. I'd be happy to introduce you.
Appraising
After finishing up the school year teaching at BYU, I found a job as an assistant to a commercial real estate appraiser, thanks to the recommendation of some good friends. I love my job. As I was looking for opportunities to grow, my boss suggested that I look into becoming an appraiser. I did a little research and figured, why the heck not? So, I'm in the middle of some online classes to become an appraiser trainee and have already started learning from my boss. I love using the non-music side of my brain and love the office I work in. And having a non-musical job has really freed up creativity, and now I have so many ideas floating around that I can hardly keep my feet on the ground. Don't worry. I still have a small teaching studio, and sing regularly with Lux Singers and the Utah Opera Chorus as well as plan to do many recitals and other performances via Singing with Jenny.
Gym/Personal Health
This year, I fully committed to eating intuitively and healing my relationship with food. I got a new gym membership and told myself I was going to the gym just to move, not for results or anything else. And guess what.... I've never felt better in my life. I am in tune with what my body needs. I don't feel guilty when I eat a treat or when I skip out on the gym, but I crave veggies and fruit and exercise more than ever before. Turns out, that when you give yourself unconditional permission to eat and move as you please, it takes the obligation and guilt out of it and frees you to listen to your body. AND MY BODY LIKES TO MOVE AND EAT FOOD! So, I listen.
Kayak
My love for the water couldn't be greater. We, water and I, have a magical bond. When I was out boating with my family last summer, I asked myself, how can I spend more time with my beloved water? And I realized, I needed a Kayak. So, after much deliberation, I purchased a VERY nice kayak to use on rivers and lakes. We had time for three outings before it was too cold, and it was everything I dreamed it to be. The best part (and bonus surprise) was Chelsea coming to visit and kayaking with me! This next year is going to be remarkable, because me and my kayak are GOING PLACES. Name TBD. I'm thinking Sookie, or Lorelai, or... any ideas?
Purple Hair
I've never really dyed my hair much. I hadn't had much desire. I dyed it dark for the first time two summers ago. And absolutely loved it. But, this year, all of a sudden, I decided I needed purple hair. So, my dear friend, Abby, died the bottom layers of my hair purple. I feel spunky and sassy and don't regret it one bit.
This year has been full of immense growth and risk-taking, and the results couldn't have been more rewarding. I am grateful, overwhelmed, and excited to see what surprises await me next year.
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