New year, new beginnings...

[mijan]

Hello, my loves! 

Last Saturday was my 26th birthday.  A year older, a year wiser. As I'm coming down off the second-to-weirdest birthday of my life, it's a good time to go back over the year, both recent events, and overall developments. There's been a lot of change and growth. Lessons learned, rewards earned. Friends made, friends lost. And mostly, choices have been made. It's a good theme, because in the end, it all comes down to the choices we make.  The difference between what is right and what is easy can depend completely on your point of view.  Sometimes, changing course can be the hardest thing in the world, because it's easier to continue along with the track you've already selected.  However, if you can sleep soundly at night, you can know you've made the right one.  Knowing that you can move forward with your life is also a good clue.  The sense of standing on your own two feet, despite pressure to do otherwise... very important.  Feeling surrounded by people who care deeply for you - best proof anyone could ever ask for.  Despite all the bumps in the road, I've had an excellent year.  Here's a peek into where I've been:

In this past year, I've finally begun a true career at a biomedical research firm in Cambridge, MA. I have a phenomenal boss, and some awesome coworkers. I couldn't ask for better. I fell into it partially by chance, but mostly by damn hard work and searching. I've been promised a promotion to full-time salary, with full benefits, starting no later than the end of the year. I even got enough of a raise that I'll be able to afford my own apartment now! In the military, I was promoted to First Lieutenant, and just last week, was offered the position of second-in-command (the Executive Officer) for the battalion headquarters company of my old unit. (Oh shit, I still need to e-mail the commander, don't I? HA! Chalk that up to the to-do list.) And in fandom... I FINALLY finished "Eclipse". I know, you'd all been waiting for that. And I know, I REALLY need to post some new fic. Well... guess what?

I've dug up some of the fics I began but didn't finish, and I intend to really start working on them again. I found my post-Hogwarts, and the post-HBP fic that was intended for the Big Bang. I realized that the plots and themes can merge perfectly, so I think that's what I'm going to do. I also think I might chop the Epilogue off of Eclipse, and write a sequel. I found "Cheque Please?", a smutty little comedy that I left dangling. I'm almost done with "Baseball Slash". From Lumos, I took on the challenge of writing a fic with Harry in Las Vegas, and he randomly picks up Draco's "card" on the street, and decides to purchase services. And on a random request for inspiration, I promised painless_j that I'd do a fic where Draco sucks his own cock. (THAT ought to be entertaining!)

Also this year, I went to Lumos. Yes, I know, I haven't done a Lumos write-up. I've been a bit preoccupied lately. But while I was there, I got to hang out with some of the same awesome people from The Witching Hour, and met some new awesome people. I taught Potions for the Magical Night Classes, attended multiple panels and lectures, assisted in the Horcrux roundtable (because poor Genii had partially lost her voice), and wrote CRACKFIC! Gods above, I love fandom. I love fandom people. I love fandom events. This last one was tainted by clueless, delusional creatures that fancy themselves celebrities worthy of a paperazzi following, but bad blood will out, right?  Oh!  And technically, The Witching Hour happened after my last birthday, so I can count that too!  Ha!  It's been a great year to be in the fandom.  I love it.  And next year... I don't know how I'm going to do it, but somehow, I'm going to make it to all three.  My sister will be in England, so I'll have no excuse not to attend Sectus.  Prophecy is within driving distance (carpool, fellow Bostonians?), so I would be crazy not to go to that one.  And Phoenix Rising?  I have WAY too many friends going to that one for me to not go.  So... looks like I'll have a busy vacation schedule!

So, it's a new year, a new beginning. I'm 26 now. There was a time when I wondered if I'd make it to 26. Actually, that was about a week ago. So, I derailed that train, and changed tracks. Just because someone else's life is a train wreck doesn't mean I have to go down that path, too. This week, I was reminded just how many friends I really have, and I cherish them more than words can say.  You know people are your friends when they go out of their way to do things for you, big things, even when there's nothing they stand to gain in return. To have people come all the way from New Jersey for my birthday was more than I could have hoped.  I had the most wonderful birthday.  Cake, ice cream, picnic dinner, great weather, and mostly, great friends.  I've been gifted with art, fics, and even a tid bit of technology from someone who really shouldn't have splurged on me (but I thank her for the gift, most graciously, of course). It was a marvelous birthday. Thank you to everyone who made it shine.  The same goes to those who wished they could be there. And next year, I'll throw a proper birthday party. I'd like to invite emmagrant01, who shares August 12th with me, and maybe we can make a fandom event out of the double birthday. What do you think?  *nudge-nuzzle* 

The weekend after next, I think I've been asked to come to a fandom get-together in New York.  My internet access has been sketchy lately, and I haven't had quite as much time to poke around, so I've been getting my info via third-party sources.  Either way, if that's how it pans out, I'll be there with bells handcuffs on. *wink*  

And finally, for those who have been wondering where I've been, what I've been up to, and whether or not I've gotten some inconveniences sorted out... yes, everything is fine.  It's nice being able to sleep soundly at night, not having to worry about being pressured into committing a felony for a couple of ingrates who have shot themselves in the foot so many times, they can't even realize they're the ones holding the smoking gun.  When I'm all settled in my new place, I'll have a bit of a party.  I don't know how many people my new apartment can comfortably sleep, but it will be at least six (comfortably), and I'm considering getting roll-up futon pads and/or air mattresses.  I want my new apartment to be a place people like to come visit.  Maybe it could be the crash-pad for a group in the area after the Book 7 release party.  Up-all-night reading, with a steady supply of coffee and tea.  Who's in?

Anyhow, must get back to work.  If I want that promotion, it's good to remain on the boss's good side, yes?
Love you all!
*SMOOCH!* 

Comments

[slave4severus.livejournal.com]

First off, Happy Belated Birthday!! Wow you are 26??!! Well you sure don't look like it (not that it looks old or anything, but I was thinking you were 22 or so *shrugs*). It seems that everything is going great for you right now, so I'm sure your next year will be super-fabulous.

There was German chocolate cake and ice cold beer

You know what's really wrong? It is 7:40AM and Vanessa is thinking 'Hmm..sounds really good right now' *shakes head* Yea, I know. The German needs to go home and have a beer.

[inspiredlife.livejournal.com]

I've been meaning to send out a quick email to wish you a happy belated birthday and see how the party went. I'm sorry again I missed it!

I love reviewing my year that thanks for sharing this with us. Also...baseball slash! Yay!

[xingou.livejournal.com]

The next year is going to be a great year for you. It sounds like things are slotting into place.

You are most definitely invited to New York. The details are as follows...
Date: Monday, August 28th
Time: start arriving at 7:15 to be early!
Location: Sambuca on 72nd and Columbus. Subway - 1/2/3
Bring: Cash - to make it easier to split the checks. $25 should do. It's not going to be that much, but just in case! And maybe the cash should be broken up into other amounts so that its easier to split as well. like.. a 10, a 5, and ten ones or something O.o Bah, anyway.

Also, I still fully intend to come and help you decorate your new place. It will be beyond fun. XD Just let me know when are ready.

I had a great time and was happy to be able to spend your birthday with you. Call/email/IM me anytime.

ps. I just have to say one more time that I adore your family. Give Rascal a scratch for me and tell them I said hi.

[waterbird.livejournal.com]

It's great to read such a positive, happy update from you. I'm so glad things are going well and that you had a great birthday. It would be wonderful to see you in London next year. I really hope it works out – along with everything else: your job, new apartment, new writing projects, etc. *big hug*

[augustfai.livejournal.com]

Happy (belated) birthday! =D

[emeraldandazure.livejournal.com]

happy late b-day.....you really don't look 26! :D

[mijan.livejournal.com]

LOL... A kind heart and good friends keep a person young. How old do I look?

[singlewoman.livejournal.com]

*Tackles and snoggles* I am so glad I was able to spend your birthday with you. All in all it was fun. A bit odd, but that is nothing to what you had to put up with for the past few months. I am just so happy you are out of there. But I am not surprised that you have so many friends who rallied around you, both physically and in spirit. You keep saying that you are nothing special, well if you weren't special would we have been there? Don't disparage yourself, you rock our world.

You never finished reading us "Cheque Please?" so you have to finish that. Loved it! And the bit that you read of what was to be the Big Bang fic was really good. Can't imagine what has been happening in your life to keep you from writing.

I love your mother and sister, they are truly great people and so well grounded. And Duncan! Much Duncan love. Hanging out with the girls, listening to good fic, not getting squicked by the wonderful art you did for Emma.

I will certainly come help you move, again, and decorate the new place. And party? You bet!

Be well, the karma is on your side. Give your mother and sister big big hugs from me, and love to Rascal, Roger, Mimi, and yes even Morpheus. (That is a pretty big step for me).

Talk to you soon. *Smooches*

[mijan.livejournal.com]

LOL... excellent! I can't wait to see you, and everyone else, again! It really was a great birthday.

And why would Duncan be squicked by slash art? He's straight, but he's the truest example of "straight but not narrow" that I've ever seen. He's been a H/D slasher ever since he read Eclipse... and yeah, I nudged him to read it when I found out he does some writing on his own. He writes well! He ought to do some slash. *evil grin*

So, yes, I promise that I'll finish AND post those fics. On my honour as a Gryffindor. :D

[llynden.livejournal.com]

That's all good news :)
Let the coming year be steadily improving was has been accomlished during the last, and bring some new pleasant surprises :)

[llynden.livejournal.com]

it should have been, of course, "what has been accomplished"

[fiona-fawkes.livejournal.com]

What a great post to wake up to at the top of the f-list. *hugs* I am so glad to hear that you're getting things smoothed out and that you're happy with where things are going. That is just phenomenal. I'm also trying to figure out a way to make it to all three cons. Just too many awesome fan friends out there to even think about missing a single one. Sectus (two weeks) then Prophecy (two weeks) and THEN a combo birthday party for two of my favorite gals? Oh my. If only I never had to actually go to work. Happy Birthday again. 26 is a great age if I do say so myself. Make it a good year.

[crikkita.livejournal.com]

The same goes to those who wished they could be there.

*CUDDLES* I know we don't know each other well, but I really, really wish I could have been. I'm glad to hear the party went as well as you'd hoped. *g*

Maybe it could be the crash-pad for a group in the area after the Book 7 release party. Up-all-night reading, with a steady supply of coffee and tea. Who's in?

ME!!! Unless I decide to disappear into my cave and read it slowly over a week, to make it last. But I'm always up for a party ...

Congrats on all the good stuff at work, too!! Very happy to hear that all is going so well for you. ♥

[voldiebeth.livejournal.com]

Happy (late) Birthday!! *tackles* Ohhh 2 HP conventions in 1 year? An awesome job? A new apartment? Fanfic?! What more could you ask for in a year? I hope I have the same year you just had:)
Now let's look at what's coming up.... 3 HP cons! OotP movie! Book 7!!!! Full time salary! You're going to have a great year! *hugs*

[skarlettfever.livejournal.com]

Warmest Wishes for the Coming Year!
Congrats on the pending promotion at work, and well done for your promotion in the services.

Looking especially forward to reading the baseball card fic-

Stay well :)

[ackonrad.livejournal.com]

What a beautiful, impressive, and, most importantly, optimistic post. You're the living example that our life can change for the better if we're strong enough to make that change come true, my dear.

HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY, Michelle! So happy to hear you had a great one! ♥

[quidditchmaster.livejournal.com]

GG, Michelle. *licks*

Hum. I'm glad the move went well. Any SNAFUs? Did it happen according to plan? I'm sure it did; you're a MILITARY WOMAN; you people are good with planning escort missions and whatnot... ;D

Um. *fondles* My mind isn't here, so I will refrain from, uh, rambling.

*bows*

[awaywithpixie.livejournal.com]

Glad everything went well, and that things are finally where you want them to be... 26, eh? You're still a baby (and that makes you exactly one year and one day younger than my baby brother, oh child of the 80's) - some of us were just about to start high school when you were born!

If the next HP film opens in very late July next year, I *might* be stateside, and then it could be a triple birthday, but we'll see on that count. On any count, I'll definitely stateside with hubby in 2008 for our 40th birthdays (his birthday is the 17th), and we'll be there to avoid his family, who like to play unpleasant pranks on special birthdays)

[dumbys-baby.livejournal.com]

That was the most amazingly positive post to wake up to first thing in the morning! I do not pretend to know what has happened in your life over the past year, but you must be an incredible woman to get through it all and to come out of the other side of it looking forward to the future, not dwelling on the past. Congratulations on the wonderful job, potential promotion for said job and the promotion from the military. Good luck with looking for a new flat, too.
I'm so glad you had a fantastic birthday and I can't wait to read your new(-ish!) fics!

[emmagrant01.livejournal.com]

I don't know if you remember this, but one night when we were drunk (surprise, surprise) at TWH, you told me in all seriousness that you didn't think you would live to be 26. I told you you were just being paranoid, but you said you didn't know how or why, but you really thought you wouldn't live another year. And without philosophizing on recent events too much, I think I can in all honesty say that you may indeed have just dodged a metaphorical bullet.

And sweetie, I am so, so proud of you. You are a wonderful, smart, strong woman, and you have many people who love and support you. Always remember that!

*hugs*

[mijan.livejournal.com]

No, I was completely serious when I said that. And I hadn't forgotten that, either. I can remember thinking that, even years ago. For some reason, I could never "picture" myself at 26. Every other age up to then, yes. It was like this dark curtain that cut off the vague glimpse forward that I could usually get if I concentrated. I think I really did dodge a bullet of sorts, because it really did come down to the wire that week. I'm feeling so much better now, though. My appetite is coming back, I'm sleeping better, and I know I've got some of the best friends a person could want.

*hugs tightly* Thanks for being there when I needed it most.

[greenwitch.livejournal.com]

The weekend after next, I think I've been asked to come to a fandom get-together in New York.

Oooohhhhh... what's going on? :)

Happy Birthday!

[mijan.livejournal.com]

*giggles* Fiendling is moving to New York. I think it's a welcome party. :D

[mijan.livejournal.com]

Don't worry, I've got that one planned. It's right there on my project list. I need to finish some fics that have been sitting there half-done though. Once I've finished those, I'll get right on the Vegas fic. :)

[frogman1286.livejournal.com]

sqeeee! 7th book release party! I wanna be there if it goes down!

[mijan.livejournal.com]

Absolutely! We'll need our token straight guy! And... you're just mad-cool anyway. *grins*
*pets the brillo*

[m-jadis.livejournal.com]

Thanks for posting! Glad to hear from you. Sounds like things are back on track.

::hugs:: and Happy Belated!!

[timelady.livejournal.com]

Sorry to intrude, but since the e-mail I sent didn't get a response (granted, it didn't need a response, but I wasn't 100% sure that the address I sent it to was still in use), figured I might as well post here just to be certain.

*Quidditch uniform...I'm still promising. I was just wondering if you want the original uniform or the POA uniform. I need to research the POA uniform anyway since I'm planning to make one for myself. I personally prefer making the original since it's more eye-catching. And, yes, I know I didn't take a wand. I prefer taking payment after I've delivered. Main point is, I still need measurements! I need shoulder to shoulder, shoulder to wrist, around chest, and from shoulder to floor. oh, you are going to Phoenix Rising, right? I'll probably try to send them to you long before that, like as soon as I finish.

*How was Cirque de Solei? Sorry I didn't return your call. I had like 12 messages on my voice mail and it took me until after I had gotten home to work my way through all of them.

*Feel free to go through my pics in my photobucket (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v512/timelady/lumos/) (click the links at the top that say Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday). I have quite a few pics of you in the bunch. Be advised that I'm still in the process of uploading, so there will be more folders added. If you want a hard copy of everything, let me know. Not only do I have the raw files of my own pics, but I also have the raw files of Crystina's, Michelle-Snape's, and Kayla's since I had them all copy to my computer so I could burn CDs before we left Vegas.

*And you know that it's ultimately cool that your B-day was on the 12th! (Because mine coincidentally was on the 11th...though I'm not sharing the horror of just how old I turned).

[mijan.livejournal.com]

Aaaah, almost forgot in the insanity that ensued after Lumos! You see, I ended up abandoning the "Malfoy" clan after a bit too much excessive rudeness, general malice, and... Did you send me your e-mail address before? My in-box is so bogged down I can't find it. Give me your e-mail address again, and I'll tell you the whole story if you want it. This is something more for "Ripley's Believe It Or Not" than Livejournal.

Cirque du Soleil was AWESOME. And... hot. Very hot. *grins* Sadly, no cameras allowed, but the mental images I took away... okay, I mustn't think of those things at work. Whew!

I can definitely get you my measurements this weekend. I'll ask my sister to measure me. And you need to tell me your measurements and specifications for the wand! :)

Anyhow, I'll check out the pictures later. Do you mind if I save/copy them?
*hugs*

[snottygrrl.livejournal.com]

can i tell you how happy i am that life is taking an upswing for you right now? and how impressed i am that you were able to take the steps needed and still be able to look at all the positive things despite the difficult issues you've been dealing with? [*squeezes you tightly*]

you are a v. v. beautiful and generous spirit, and i feel quite lucky to have met you. i hope to see you at one or more of the events next yr too (speaking of events and your bday, you realise that prophecy is 2 - 5 aug? which is not the 12th, but rather close just the same).

[*sends heaps of love and cuddles to you*]

[mijan.livejournal.com]

Ooh, squee! Yes, close to the birthday, it is! Birthday party, we must have! Drunk, I shall get! Talk like Yoda when exhausted, I do!

*thud*

No, seriously, thank you. *hugs back tightly* And you'll be at Prophecy too, I hope? :)

happy belated birthday

[patch254.livejournal.com]

Im sorry i missed your birthday and didnt even get a chance to send you an e-card or anything. I dont think I ever knew that your birthday was just over a week before mine and I dont remember my being older than you ;-) I turn 27 on monday...we'll see how that goes.
Well, Im glad everything ironed out for you. You deserve to have a nice relaxing time to enjoy the things you've worked your butt off for.
Happy belated birthday, friend. ;-)

Re: happy belated birthday

[mijan.livejournal.com]

Happy birthday to you, too! Sorry I didn't reply right away. I've had sketchy internet access at best over the past week. My sister's studio apartment, where I've been staying while waiting for my new place to be ready, only has wireless, and I didn't have the hardware/software for that. I'll be all set soon though.

Any chance you'll be up in the area anytime soon? I'd love to see you again. :)

[nyx-of-darkness.livejournal.com]

*hug* i am glad you are safely out of that house. and that after book release crash with reading all night sounds like it would be fun.