Taken as a series of individual events, my 2004 had some really low points. I won't go into them (any more than I already have throughout the year), but I will say that I'm rather relieved to have the chance to start a fresh, new year. I'm optimistic that 2005 will be a significant improvement over its predecessor for me and my family. As for the rest of the world, I can only keep my fingers crossed...oh, and donate money for disaster relief.
2004 had some high points for me, too. I got a wonderful job that allows me more creative expression than anything else I've ever done for a living. I made some new friends, started this blog and bought a car I really like.
Like many bloggers, I can't resist the chance to make an end-of-the-year list. I'll keep mine simple, though: no top 10s or top 5s. Here are my #1 entertainment faves of 2004:
- Favorite Book: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon. I read a lot of books this year, but this was the one that stuck with me the longest after I finished it.
- Favorite CD: Scissor Sisters. I'll admit I'd never have discovered this band without the recomendation of a younger and cooler co-worker, but once I heard their disco/Bee Gees version of Pink Floyd's "Comfortably Numb," I was intrigued enough to buy the CD. The band's mixture of influences - the aforementioned Bee Gees, Elton John, Queen, Thomas Dolby, Howard Jones, Billy Joel and various 70s glam groups - blend to produce a sound unlike anything you'll hear on the radio right now.
- Favorite New TV Show: Lost. I know, everybody keeps going on and on about "Lost." But what else are fans deprived of "The X-Files," "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and "Angel" to cling to?
- Favorite Movie: The Incredibles. Notice I didn't say this was my favorite animated movie. "The Incredibles" was the best movie of any kind I saw last year. It's such a treat when blockbuster burnout is remedied with great storytelling and amazing visuals. The latest Harry Potter movie was a close second (almost a tie).
That's all I can think of off the top of my head, which probably means it's enough.
Finally, here's a fun compilation of New Year's Superstitions from Snopes.com. I wish all of you a safe and fun New Year's Eve celebration tonight and a great 2005.