As I come upon my 23rd bday tomorrow, I have realized how much things have changed over this past year. How much growing up and maturing I have done. How much I have learned to deal with the ups and downs of the real world. I have noticed that life is so much better with friends - rather old ones or new ones. I am so happy that I have friends here in springfield. I have no idea what I would do without my roommate and another friend from work. The three of us have been through a lot. We have helped each other in the darkest parts of life and have shared in the happy moments of life. I have a wonderful guy in my life. I owe him so much. I have no idea what I would do without him. He has given me so much. He has shown that I am important and valuable. He has cared for me so much. My family has been there too. I have realized how blessed I am this past year. Sometimes, I just do not realize it. When depressed and angry, one does not realize how placed he is.