Top Ten of 2022

As I look back on 2022 there’s as much to take from this year and maybe that’s a good thing. Sometimes you need things to be calmer. 2021 was exciting even though we were still in the midst of a global pandemic and still are in 2022.

Some of the best things to come out (no pun intended) of last year were Rob and Sara’s wedding, our Gaffron Family Reunion, my 40th birthday, and taking a new position at Giant Eagle after a long run of traveling and doing inventory with WIS International.

2022 centered on getting accustomed to Giant Eagle, not being sure if coming out was the right thing (I later identified as non-binary), and celebrating Annabelle’s 10th birthday. I fought mental health issues and depression in 2022, and I experienced changes in my workplace.

It was a crazy election season in Pennsylvania as the senate and gubernatorial races really heated up. I knew who I was voting for but I still had the scars from past presidential elections still polarizing me. Luckily my candidates came out on top but those who voted for the other person running I hope I can find some middle ground with.

2022 saw me finally embrace Giant Eagle and let go of my old job (it wasn’t easy but it’s hard when you’re near and dear to the place). We finally got to attend in person events in Toastmasters again. I realized that I didn’t need everyone’s approval and learned to love myself.

Here’s a look at what shaped my 2022. Look for my top ten starting Monday.

January (IceFest in Ligonier with Rae, Sara, and Rob; watching Stepbrothers and eating tacos afterwards).

February (joining Laurel Highlands Toastmasters; getting selected for jury duty)

March (attending Division contests for my Toastmasters District; I became a fan of the Office)

April (learning foreign languages through Duolingo; I started with Spanish and now I’m learning French, Italian, and German)

May (being unsure of my decision to come out; searching for a church no matter their views or how LGBTQ 🏳️‍🌈 friendly they were; struggling with my mental health; the start of changes at work)

June (attending my first in person District 13 TLI since December 2019; overturning of Roe v. Wade—a very sad day for our country)

July (Fourth of July picnic at the farm; breaking down to family about my nonconformity; learning to love myself and be proud of my sexuality)

August (Night Crew Team Member Appreciation dinner; we had a nice feast and our crew members were each given a gift bag with treats in it).

September (We met our new Store Leader; I discovered Queer Eye on Netflix and began to really relate to the Fab Five).

October (Annabelle’s 10th birthday; Gaffron Family Reunion; Kenny Pickett’s first start as Steelers quarterback)

November (Election Day and the crazy senate and gubernatorial races; one year Giant Eagle anniversary; a nice Thanksgiving dinner at home)