LeliaThomas.Com

January 2007: It’s a new year.

Is the first month of 2007 really over already?

January opened my eyes to certain truths about myself and others. I have learned good things and struggled to accept the facts in other cases. I have laughed and reveled in my joy and successes, and I have cried at the unfairness found in a part of my past. Yet no joy or challenge has led me to compromise who I am, and I am glad I can say that at the end of the day. I figure if you can come out of the metaphorical fire with yourself whole, you’ve done well.

I found freedom in rising above that rather ugly part of my past, severing the final ties that bound my ankles to it. It is good to know when you are personally free of something, no matter how great or small the situation. What I dealt with I never thought I would have to deal with–so goes all thinking, I suppose. It was not easy to be assertive where I had to be or to be crisply kind in the face of utter disrespect and malice. It takes a lot of maturity, and the willingness to let go of your anger. Some people do not learn that even after many years on this earth. That’s okay. I’m only in charge of my behavior.

While a lot of my time has been spent in the silence of my apartment this month, I feel that has been a good thing ultimately. Since I never did hear back from the three design studios I sent my resume to–too bad, maybe I’ll hear something from them later–I’ve worked on a lot creatively, by myself. I’ve begun daily (okay, sometimes every-other-daily, if I’m busy!) sketching and writing, and it’s been rewarding. 2007, despite a few inklings of bad things, has been quite positive, and I expect it to continue that way.

In the middle of this month, Pal and Ina’s friends, Espen and Torra, arrived for their visit to Melbourne, which will last until the 18th of February. They’re great guys, and it’s been a pleasure to be around them. I hope I haven’t annoyed them too much by needing them to speak English for me! (I swear I can’t help it!) For pictures of Espen and Torra–yes, more Norwegians–see here and here. Really flattering photos by Ina, right? I gotta keep away from these people when they have cameras…

Saw half of the Australian Open finals at Federation Square; pictures of that are below. There are times when I don’t like the city, where I want to walk to a lake or in a wooded area or simply walk on the grass barefoot. But then there are some moments, like the one below, where I enjoy city life a lot. There is a heart, a thrumming of vitality to cities that cannot be emulated in mere towns. I think I’ll always be torn between the peaceful freedom of the country and the active convenience of the city. (I will forever refuse to settle on Suburbia, though.)

*Better versions of the above photos will be uploaded later.

I am so sorry that the Chilean, Gonzalez, didn’t win. He had very pretty eyes, and yes, that has something to do with tennis. It does now, anyway.

Next month? Time will tell, but it’ll be good.

Comments ordered from oldest to newest.

kav p

Ho ho, bet that tennis guy was speedy.

I’m asking to be shot, here.

Lelia

Am I going to have to use my heat-ray gun on you? :|

Edrei

Well, I’ll be in Melbourne from the 2nd till the 7th. Why don’t we meet up. I’m sure you know some places where we can have some good food. :)

Lelia

Sounds good. You up for chocolate? I’ve not been to Max Brenner’s in over a month…I’m due some chocolate. XD

Edrei

You’re talking my food for the mind. :)

Justin Ruckman

I’ve found more creative juice this year as well, maybe it was the restful winter break, or some crazy shit going on with the planets.

Brian

This is the best picture in that whole gallery. I’m happy to hear you are having a good start too a new year.

Lelia

Justin, creativity is goood. Maybe it’s a sign that the Year of the Pig is going to be awesome. 8)

Brian: that one is great, yes! :)

LorriM

Truths, about ourselves and others, are the substance of our lives.

Oooooh, chocolate!