New year, time to reflect

My blogging wasn't as frequent as 2009 came to a close. I think this is because I was using Facebook for more plithy views, the ones in my pre-Facebook days I used to elaborate upon in my blog. Anyway, with the new year comes an easy way to recommit to my blogging and remind myself of how much I really enjoy it.

To start this new year, I thought I'd compile a Good/Bad/Ugly (and a bit more) list for 2009...

Good: This year's must-see viewing in the TV medium was Breaking Bad. A very close second was In Treatment. Although these shows are about completely different topics, both deal with the human condition of struggling between right and wrong, and both include A+ acting.

Bad: I tried to respect the fine history of British TV and watch Auf Wiedersehen Pet. Unfortunately I found it dated, full of poor acting, and quite boring. Alas.

Ugly: The release of MP's expense claims has been shocking, even months after the first ones were released. Shameful!

Good: The opening of the Nottingham Contemporary art venue. In a time when almost anyone could justify fiscal trimmings, this new space pushed through to open and offer the beautiful haven of art.

Very good: I saw Hamlet staring Jude Law this summer, just in case there is anyone left in the sphere who doesn't know. Thank you, Donmar!

Bad and good: Dreamy Simon Armitage did not become our Poet Laureate (bad) but we did get the first woman PL in Carol Ann Duffy (good).

Ugly: I'm still bummed I wasn't chosen to participate in One & Other! It's not all ugly though because I think the idea and implementation of it was fine indeed.

More ugly: Weight gain, mine. It's been a rather yo-yo year with the pounds but 2010 shall offer me the time I need to resolve it (I've called this year my Oprah-esque struggle, although I don't watch or read her, everyone knows of her battle).

Very good: Starting the year with the trip to DC. I've already blogged about it but it still is a highlight of my earthly experiences.

Bad: Snow and ice in December was left to Mother Nature to control, sans the use of gritters. Although our council swears they were on the task, local sidewalks were more like ice skating rinks over the holiday season.

Good: Ending the year with the family gathered at our house. Bailey had her grandparents around her and she was in grandchild bliss. I took loads of pics (check out my Shutterfly album for some) and we have anecdotes and memories to last for many Christmases to come.

RIP: Uncle Allen

Bring on 2010... I'm counting the days until I turn 40, not because I'm particularly thrilled with the milestone but because I'll be celebrating it in Paris. We'll be housed at the Hôtel Jeanne d'Arc, and I can't wait (if you want to join in on the fun, you know where to find us).