2008: My Year in Review

During the last few days of every year, reflection is inevitable. As I look back throughout the year, I must admit, I am pretty blessed. Similar to most years, my 365 days were spent mainly around friends and family. I have such a strong group of friends and a very close family that any rainy day I may be having goes away pretty quickly. I could write about the tough time I have had finding a job after Graduate school or the fact that at 28, I am living at home (which isn't such a bad thing); but instead I want to reflect on the positive things that have happened to me in 2008. Here they are in no particular order:

Uncle Ari

At around 6 PM on November 24th, I became an Uncle. Jules Lendvay Ratner was born a healthy 6 lbs. 3 oz. While I have always been good with kids, it's so much different when it is your blood. I am awed by everything he does and just last night, spent my first night with him. While I only slept for 3 hours, changed 4 dirty diapers and fed him twice, it was an unbelievable experience. I am very excited to watch him grow and be the Uncle that he deserves...it's just too bad he can't grow up an Ohio State or NY Giant fan.



VCU Brandcenter Graduation

On May 15th, I graduated from The VCU Brandcenter. It was quite an accomplishment for me considering the lack of interest I had in going back to school. Honestly, until I heard about the Brandcenter program, I never thought about the possibility of working toward a second degree. After two years though, this was the best career decision I have ever made. The Brandcenter gave me the confidence and skills to have a successful career. Whether it be marketing, product management, brand management, product marketing or any other business path, the core skills learned at the Brandcenter have set me up to contribute positively for the companies I am employed by. I believe I am more creative, strategic, analytic and able to work well with others because of this experience. It truly changed the way I think.

Four Years with Shirin

April 21st is a special day for me. Four years ago, Shirin and I went on our first date to see Man on Fire. Many dates later as well as numerous movies, we are still going strong; actually, much stronger. While it hasn't been easy - what relationship is? - I have become a better man because of her. I have learned that compromise is necessary and that thinking of how my actions affect others makes me a kinder person. I can only hope that I will continue to celebrate April 21st and share many more memories with Shirin.

My 28th Birthday

I have always referred to my birthday as the middle of the year. Considering there are 365 days in a normal year, we all know that's not possible. But considering my birthday is June 16th, it's close enough. I usually don't do anything big and try not to make it a big deal. But for the last few years, I have done the same thing; invite my friends and close ones to my parents house for a BBQ. The only thing I ask is that my mom make my favorite salad and my parents get my favorite ribbon cake from Randolph's [This is not the actual cake, but it does look good, doesn't it?]. Anyway, this year was special because Shirin's parents were able to spend time with all of my friends and that doesn't happen too often.

Shirin's MAC Employment

It has not been all doom and gloom on the employment front. 2008 has brought Shirin (which makes me VERY happy) the job of her dreams...and she just graduated college. Working as make-up artist is the best job for her. It allows for her to use the skills she gained while at VCU with the interest she has in making others look great. They are working her quite a bit but I think this will be great for her career. I cannot wait to watch as she continues to blossom as a professional and I know big things are waiting for her in the upcoming years.


Weddings & Engagements

Last but certainly not least, I have attended a couple of close friend's weddings as well as watched as a cousin of mine and best friend each got engaged. I attended a close family friend's wedding in Seattle earlier this year and it was such a great wedding. It helped me realize what I love about weddings, the uniqueness of each one. This one was a small gathering but what a great time. The other wedding I attended was my best friend from college. I have known him and his wife for over 5 years know but it seems like I have known them my entire life. This wedding was huge and was just as fun, in its own right. One thing, which I loved, was the photo booth it had. Here are some pictures of Shirin and I:


I hope that you had a great 2008 as well. I know I look forward to 2009 as I am anticipating an even better year. Thank you very much for following along via my blog and I hope that it has been somewhat interesting to you. Have a happy and healthy New Year and see you in 2009!