I’m beginning to think that my theme of the year will be transition.

I’d have to say that it started with President Obama. Eight years that have marked some of the worst years in American politics came to an end with the transition from George W. Bush to Barack Hussein Obama as President of the United States. I had worked a bit on the campaign and contributed as much time and money as I could manage — having been an Obama supporter from the very beginning, it meant a lot to me to see his transition into the White House, as I’m sure it did for many Americans.

It still amazes me that we have a man like Obama in the White House. It’s absolutely incredible.

However, more personally, I’m transitioning into a more independent life. I am working on building the means to becoming completely financially independent, and I’m transitioning out of school and into the so-called working world. I know it’s a tough time right now to get into the ‘working world’, but it’s time for me to make that jump. I’m hoping that, by August, I will be living on my own, paying everything on my own, and working in a job that can support me. I’m trying to be optimistic, but I’m not really getting my hopes up — it’s a horrible economy out there, and I’m not necessarily in a field that will allow a solid job.

As for living situation, I’m beginning a transition right now — I’m looking to move out of this apartment, the place I’ve been in for only about eight months, for various reasons. I’ll be leaving my roommate on good terms, but it’s probably best that I leave and find somewhere else to stay.

I’m also looking at other possibilities. I’m thinking about Peace Corps, which probably wouldn’t happen until the beginning of next year if I apply soon. Considering my grandmother’s age and health, I’m a little worried about departing the country for two years, but Peace Corps is still on my mind. On the less intense side, I will be interviewing with Green Corps, which may take me elsewhere, but hopefully I can find something — anything — here in Boulder. If I can’t find something somewhere in Colorado, I’ll be transitioning out of here. Wherever that will be, I don’t know, but I’m trying not to think too much about it until it actually comes time to deal with it.

It will be all about transition this year, and I’m preparing for more to come.