2: Through The Years

For many people, New Years is a time of looking back through the years, reflecting on that which is coming to a close. For me, New Years generally involves a whirlwind tour through the United States, visiting as many dear friends as possible. As such, the retrospective introspection is usually postponed until late January.

As this is an election year, the question of the great Saint Ron also come back to me right about now. In the lead-up to the 1980 election, he asked: "Are you better off now than you were four years ago?" Well, let's see about that.

It is the end of January 2012. Where am I now compared to the past four years:

• Compared to January 2011, I have a better car. By "better", I mean that it is newer and more reliable. Also better fuel efficiency.
  
  
• Compared to January 2010, I have a better flat. By "better", I mean that it is significantly larger (~33%), which has allowed it to be set up into something feeling much more like home. Also costs about the same as my previous flat.
  
  
• Compared to January 2009, I have better relationships. By "better", I mean that my partners are sane and stable, making it possible to form stronger, healthier, more lasting, and more nurturing connections. Also I have some partners, like my beloved cheshcat, who are as the same now as they were then -- as wonderful as ever.
  
  
• Compared to January 2008, I have a better job. By "better", I mean that I work on a more interesting experiment in a research group where I feel valued and appreciated. Also the pay is significantly higher (~30%).

Am I better off now than I was four years ago? Sure seems like it! Several important components of my life -- work, partners, domestic comfort -- have improved in taht time. Huzzah! How about you, gentle readers? What is better now for you than it was four years ago?

Life is good! Here's to the next four years, with all the joy and adventures that they will bring...