Sorry to hear about the donwturn, LK. I hope that everything turns out all right for you, Lady Aberdene, and the gibbies... Strength.
Big events? Nothing compared to going to Uni. That was a major eye-opener for me. Complete control of my schedule meant complete control... and I put too much time in the "goofing off" category.
On the upside, I got remarkably better at shooting pool
Make sure you keep your priorities straight, and you'll be fine.
About the biggest thing I've got is about three ideas for a new job... now, if I can just find a way to keep the income level of the old one...