5. The worst year.

2001 was the worst year.

It was the year my parents split.  My mom and sisters moved to Virginia.  I stayed in California with my dad.  This was after deciding to go to college locally (even though I got into some really good state schools).  I think everyone in my family was surprised that I didn't go with my mom.  Heck, I was surprised.  Up until (and for a while, beyond) that point, I didn't get along with my dad very well.

They left, and soon after I started college.  High school was really easy for me.  I got good grades without much effort, and I never had to study.  It turned out college was not similar.  I was not prepared for the amount of work I needed to do.  And I needed to study, which was something I never learned.

About a month after that, Aaron left on his mission.  (For those who don't know, when Mormons go on missions there is very little communication with home.  Two phone calls a year, and weekly letters.  For two years.)  So, everyone I loved (and who loved me back) left in the span of about 4 months.

It was the worst time in my life.