I’m not sure what I can say about 2014 to be quite honest, it hasn’t been the most eventful of years for me, which after a somewhat chaotic run of things since 2009 was quite a welcome relief. It’s been one of those years where I feel like I’ve developed as a person, without drama forcing me to be someone who I’m really not. I started the year in January (as we all do) feeling a little bit apprehensive about what lay ahead and I’ve ended it, tonight, feeling like I’ve got to know myself a whole lot better- and more importantly I like myself and the person I was always meant to be.
I suppose the most major milestone for the year was reaching a healthy weight voluntarily for the first time in my adult life. Now, I don’t profess to be fully recovered from the anorexia that has haunted me for the last 12 years but I have a handle on it and I’m the one in control. I eat well, I enjoy food and no longer fear every mouthful, my weight does go up and down like a yo-yo but that’s just life and I’m aware now of when it’s becoming a problem and seek to address it rather than bury my head in the sand. I’m living my life how I want to, not how mental illness wants me to.
Another big thing for me is finally getting back behind the wheel. For those who don’t know, I began learning to drive when I was 17 (and what a mistake that was!) After five failed tests I admitted defeat and took an extended break, one that lasted ten whole years, oops! I’m now nearing taking my test again- and I don’t think it’d be cheating to write off my previous experience, right?
It was a good year for family things- spending quality time with those who mean the most to me and taking time out of life to see them. Spending a weekend up in Birmingham just a few weeks ago was a highlight, quality time with my Aunt and Cousins and getting to know my Aunt’s three foster girls- as well as watching in amazement at little Noah, my elder cousins boy as he transforms from a baby to a walking, talking and really very cheeky toddler.
The year has had it’s challenges- back surgery and being so busy that sometimes I just want to run away from it all just about touches the surface of that, but work wise I feel like I’ve developed hugely and now work two jobs in very different roles and wouldn’t have it any other way. I’m pleased to report my back issues seem to have resolved too and all I have left to show for them is a neat little scar. Ben landed himself an awesome full time job too, I couldn’t be a prouder girlfriend!
It wouldn’t be a recap without mentioning the blogging highlights of the year for me- compared to some they may be small but I’ve been lucky enough to work with some amazing brands and make new friends within the Bristol blogging community thanks to the birth of #BlogClub- social anxieties now mostly squashed I look forward to a lot more of that in 2015!
For someone who thought they didn’t have a lot to say about the year, I seem to have written a lot. Link me up to your posts about the year gone by as I love to read how everyone feels about what the last twelve months means to them.
Finally, thank you- to everyone who reads this blog and/or supports me in everything I do. Mum, Dad, Grandad, Benjamin and Trudi I cannot thank you enough for everything you have done and continue to do…and to all my blogging friends, I’m sorry I’ve been a little absent of late, I plan to catch up with each and every one of you soon.
Have fun if you’re out celebrating tonight, enjoy it and don’t forget to take a moment to reflect on 2014 and how it’s shaped you to deal with whatever 2015 throws your way!