Loss

When we lose somebody in our lives, it's easy to dwell on it because it can seem like we've lost that person completely. But I've found that there is another way to think about it, which means this isn't entirely true. I was watching Goodnight Mr. Tom earlier today and there's a quote near the end of the film where one of the main characters is talking about loss, which resonated with me. He says:

"Except I didn't lose them you see, not really, because they are still here, inside here *points at head* and always will be... and everything little thing you'll ever remember about (them) and that's something nobody can ever take away from you."

Although a person may no longer be in your life physically anymore, due to what ever reason, you still have a version of them with you: the things you did together, what they were like and the conversations you had. I still believe that everyone you meet and interact with has the ability to change you in some way and that change can't be taken away. The impact that they made on you still remains even when they're gone. Perhaps that's the best thing to take away from losing somebody, along with the fact that you had the opportunity to know them and be part of who they were too.

Laura.

Song: All You Had to do Was Stay by Taylor Swift

Aims of 2015

Every year I compile a list of aims that I want to accomplish during the year, rather than just having one resolution that is soon forgotten about. But first, I thought I would review last year's aims and see how many I managed to complete.
I wanted to get at least a 2.1 for my first year of university and I did do this, I ended up getting a first (amazingly). Other things on last year's list included: making the most of time I have with my family and friends from home, and to also stay in touch with them. Although time can fly past at uni and things can get busy around deadline time, I did make a conscious effort to ring/text/message family members and friends, as well as arranging to see people when I was home. So I think I can tick those off. The last one I did complete was to travel somewhere I hadn't been before. In the summer I visited a small town in Cornwall called Mousehole and it has since become one of my favourite places alongside St Ives. 
'Drive on the motorway' and 'Post at least twice a month on my blog' weren't entirely successful, but I will be adding these again to this year's list. So without any more rambling, here's my list for 2015:

- Be more confident
- Try not to let opportunities pass me by 
- Drive on the motorway
- Post at least twice a month on my blog
- Achieve a 2.1 or higher for my second year of university 
- Say what I think and feel and stop being overly cautious
- Road trip / Travel somewhere with friends
- Stay in touch with my family & friends
- Get work experience at a publishing company

I may add to this list throughout the year if I think of other things.
Best of luck to any of you who have got aims or resolutions for the coming year.

Laura.

Song: Bad Blood by Taylor Swift