2011: A Year of Growth

As I look back on 2011, I am sad that it went by so fast, but very grateful for everything this year has given me.

When 2011 started, I was amidst a quarter life crisis of sorts and determined to find out who I wanted to be and what I wanted to do with my life. If you had told me in January 2011 that I would have a blog, gain confidence in myself, bring my weight loss to 50 lbs total, have better relationships with my loved ones, and gain new friends from all over the country I would have never, ever believed you.

Some highlights from the last year:

- Starting my blog in March and seeing it grow in such a short amount of time.

 

- And receiving comments like this one. I was completely blown away. Thank you Nicole!

- Vacationing in NC for a week in June.

-Attending my first blog conferece, Healthy Living Summit, in August. I met some amazing people and learned so much!

My Roommates!

- Running not one, but two 10k’s this fall! The Rock n Roll 10k in NY and the Veteran’s Day 10k in DC.

-Presenting my first scientific poster in DC this November.

-Becoming best friends again with my mom and cooking together

Learning to make stuffed grape leaves

-Celebrating 7 years with Bryan this past week!

Our Anniversary @ our favorite Syracuse area place – Roji’s Tea lounge

with our favorite past time – green tea cake!

2011 really challenged me to create a new version of myself – a version that is more positive, more giving, and more connected with myself.  It is so true that with age comes maturity, wisdom, and self love – and I’m only at 24! I still have so much to learn and do. I’m leaving behind any negativity in 2011, and entering 2012 with optimism and happiness.

I’m getting ready to celebrate by dinner with friends and rocking the Emerald Nuts Midnight 4 Miler in Central Park. Should be a blast!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

~Ashley

What were some highlights from the last year for you?

What was your greatest accomplishment?