I could not have a better or worse start for a year. Figuratively speaking, I have for my opening hand in Life's poker table a few good and bad cards. And they are pretty bad. Still, though I'm more stressed than I ever have been in my entire life, I'm happy.

So yes, I can't afford a home, or even an apartment yet, the job market is dismal, and the government hasn't been particularly helpful, but I'm free. And I can't tell you how beautiful it is to be free after 20 years of being where I've been.

So here's to an unsteady, but hopeful 2009... and at least a few uploaded Deviations already! (Seriously, I'm going to at least manage ONE this year if life allows!)