What a year it's been. At the beginning of this year, I was on furlough from work, had no idea when I was coming back, running only on my savings, feeling so much stress that I was having physical symptoms like GERD and muscle spasms, and feeling completely alone. Now, a year later, so many things have changed.

First, I started work again, got a promotion, and a sizable raise. It's still not a living wage, but it's nice not to have to rely on savings EVERY month. While work itself is stressful, it's the kind of stress that I can manage much easier.

The reduction of stress has caused great physical improvements as well. I've started to lose weight again, my GERD and muscle spasms are completely gone, and I no longer suffer from random panic attacks. Overall, I'd say that is a win for sure.

The biggest change though has been in my social life. I FINALLY came out at work, which probably shocked a few people when I walked back in as a woman. More than a few didn't recognize me at all, which was quite affirming. Being able to live as my authentic self full time has been a blessing beyond anything I could have imagined. In addition to that, I started my gofundme ( https://gofund.me/f345777b ) to help with my transition and have raised 5% of what I need, which feels like such a blessing in so many ways. I also came out to my brother and his wife, and both of them were supportive and wonderful. Even if my parents don't support me, I know I'll always have family.

And the biggest change, I've found love. Just over 6 months ago, I met my amazing girlfriend  zmeydros who quickly moved into my heart. I can't say how much she means to me and her constant love and support has only helped my stress go down even further. Then, about a month ago, my best friend and I, who have known each other for over a year, finally stopped tiptoeing around each other and confessed how we felt. With the support and love of  zmeydros, I gained another girlfriend in  auryon. Then, about 3 weeks later, they both became girlfriends as well. I love my little lesbian polycule and both these girls have brought amazing things into my life. Now, going into 2022, I feel more complete, loved, and optimistic than I ever have in my entire life.

I would like to finish out this journal by saying thank you to all my watchers. Knowing that you enjoy the art that I've purchased, that you enjoy my characters and the stories I put under the art, gives me so much joy. With  zmeydros helping, I've already started to write some more stories, so hopefully you will be able to see more things from me, both visual and written, in the coming year. Here's to 2022.