I’ve always known 2017 was going to be my year.* It sounds weird, maybe even a bit conceited. I can’t be certain when it started, but I just know in the years leading up to it, I had this feeling deep down.
So much so, when Greg proposed in 2016, I remember thinking how perfect it was — that I got to get married in the year that was already going to be my best.
On top of that feeling, 2017 just fell at the perfect time in my life. 25, turning 26. Engaged, getting married. Runner, falling more in love with running every day.
2017 was the year that all my passions and loves in life collided. I didn’t choose one over another. I didn’t have to. I did all the things I wanted to do and so much more.
I challenged myself.
I spent more quality time with the ones I love.
I found my voice and stopped laughing at the things that make me uncomfortable.
I read a lot. I listened to podcasts.
I was more inspired than I’ve ever been.
I ideated and stretched my creativity.
I wrote. A lot.
I ran more miles, which meant finding a new appreciation for what my body can do.
I made meaningful connections.
I explored new places, both through travel and within my soul.
I became a “we” with someone who makes every day wonderful.
And we bought a house — putting down roots in the place that has always been home.
And as hard as it is to say goodbye to the best year I’ve ever had, I know these things won’t go away. They’ll manifest in the years to come.
There will be more miles run. More passions found. More challenges to take on.
Life is only going to get better. I've circled the sun 26 times. I know this now.
So see you later, 2017. Thanks for the sweetest memories. I’ve bookmarked each and every one to relive in the years to come.
And to 2018, let’s see what you’ve got.
*I can't look back on 2017 without thinking about all the really shitty things that happened. By all regards, it was a rough year. But it was beautiful, too. And in this blog, I decided to find the positive, and I realize how fortunate I am to have the reflection I do.