"Last Year"

The phrase, "last year...." once referred to 2005, a year of many experiences. I lived in Calgary, working for Haworth as a showroom designer, spending obscene amounts of time and energy at my job to accomplish the demanding job. I travelled to the Dominican Republic, Chicago, Boston, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Dallas, Toronto, Denver, and Holland, Michigan all by the end of September. I felt successful, empowered, and proud (for the most part) of the life I had there. I spent weekends hiking and recuperating from my busy schedule with friends. I loved having my sister, Leslie, move and live in Calgary. It stopped feeling lonely when she arrived.

However, now "last year..." refers to 2006. In 2006, I moved and continue to live in Edmonton, with a very different life than the previous year. I looked forward to long weekends, not to do more work, but to leave this northern city. I no longer dream of my next North American showroom, with corporate visits, but instead the idea of being a poor student burdened me. Travel seems far from my life right now. The year of 2006 is described very differently....kayaking, waterfalls, University after-degree, and part-time designer.

I don't know which was or is better. I still miss 2005. I miss the people, my job and the knowledge of my place in this big world. Maybe, that is why in referring to "last year..." I wish it could stay 2005 forever. I never want to forget or let go of it. It was a good year to be proud of.