21 things I did while I was 21:

Today is my birthday. 22 years ago, I was born at Glen Oaks Hospital in Glen Ellyn, IL. That first year, my accomplishments including crying, sleeping, giggling, crawling, etc. Funny, I've done all of those things this year too! The year 21 was a year with a lot of celebrations, working ridiculous amounts, growing up, squeals, sadness, brokenness (sometimes literally - like a leg), new friendships, reconciliation, and so much more.

Here are 21 highlights, lowlights, and troking moments from my 21st year:
1. Graduation - I completed my four-year degree at Trinity International University. I majored in English/Communications. I also had the best escort who helped me "walk" at graduation - Jordan Schoffstall!

2. Weddings - I went to one in May with my dear friend Lizzy. I threw up in the car and had to buy a dress. Another one I went to the day after I had broken my leg.
3. I went blond - the day after I had colored, I cried and hated it. I colored it blond two more times than returned to my brunette status.

4. I traveled - and took nearly every form of public transportation in one trip. Trains, planes, automobiles to Mississippi, St. Louis, Chicago, and California.
5. Drank Dr. Pepper - and loved it for the first time!

6. Worked in the corporate communications field - as an intern.
7. Used at least 3 different cell phones - I have dropping/throwing problems.
8. Ended up going downtown Chicago/Indiana - at least two times with my friend, Renee, we drove late at night escaping our problems.
9. Made new friends - at my jobs, the campaign, churches, and through other friends.
10. Joined Twitter - @bekstirsoen
11. Learned to budget my money - Thanks to my sister and the Dave Ramsey plan
12. Renewed old friendships - I seriously don't know what I would do without Lauren and Lylli now that they are in my life

13. First boyfriend and break up - yup spent the first 21 years of my life without dating.
14. 7 Job interviews - including phone and in person interviews for various positions.
15. Puffed a cigar for the first time - this was kind of fun :)
16. Called hundreds if not thousands of people - on the political campaign my last two weeks of work were dedicated to making phone calls. I hated my life during it and ended up having some interesting arguments.
17. Punched a bag - like a punching bag. I discovered how amazing it was to let out anger, frustration, etc by using a punching bag. I wish i still had it nearby but unfortunately I do not have room.
18. Emergency Room visits - I went to the E.R. several times. Sometimes it was for me because I had broken a leg or worried that I had broken my foot. Sometimes it was to be there for and cry with a friend who needed me. Other times just for support.

19. Became deathly ill for exactly 24 hours - and was perfectly fine afterwards. I even went downtown within hours of getting better.
20. Realized through the good and bad times that I have sooo many people who love and care for me. But most importantly that God is my Rock and Fortress. He will never leave nor abandon me.
21. Tasted alcohol for the first time ever. Don't question this fact.

22. Nothing has happened yet but you'll probably hear about it soon. I'm looking ahead to the year of 22.