goodbye 2009, hello 2010.

Is it possible that each year seems to be even better than the last? At the end of each year, I tend to reflect, reminding me of all the people I met, places I went, and all of the things I have to be grateful for. This year was not only better than the last, but possibly the best. If you had anything to do with that, thank you.

January-April – Australia: It still boggles my mind that at this time last year I was preparing myself to embark on a journey that would take me across the world where I would live, learn, and explore for 4 months. At the time it seemed insane that I would leave everything I knew for this new experience. Looking back, those months went by in the blink of an eye, and if I could, I would do it all over again. I spent these months meeting incredible people from all over the world, each with their own passion to accomplish whatever it was on their unique agenda. I went skydiving, scuba diving, sandboarding, and more experiences that created thrills I had never experienced before. I was able to enjoy the beauty of Australia’s nature and wildlife as well as enjoy the company of people who welcomed me into their lives with open arms. I am so thankful that I allowed myself to take part in a trip which introduced me to an alternate life as opposed to my routine one, and appreciate the experiences which life has to offer, recognizing that each experience is one for the taking.

May – Bamboozle: The music festival which was probably the most exciting part of returning home. Looking forward to Bamboozle kept me sane when all I wanted was to stay in Australia forever. Within a week of being home, I was reunited with some of my best friends. Music, parties, and friends created a weekend that is still often laughed about today. Disney: Not only was I able to return to a place I’ve visited yearly, but I was reunited with more of my best friends. The trip was filled with magic, reunions, and good company.

June-July – New York: I was able to spend my summer in the most wonderful city, completing an internship at a major record label. Need I say more? I fell even more in love with New York City. I had a great internship at Universal, learning about the music industry from an insider’s perspective. Throughout my time in the city, I met so many people, each with their own views and ambitions.

August – I’m not sure there was one specific highlight of August, and although I hadn’t spent much time at home this year, I enjoyed moving in to an apartment. A place I could call my own, where I was able to relax, adjust to, and enjoy, as yet another transition was made in my life.

September-December: Senior year! So crazy that I have completed my first semester of Senior year, only one left until graduation. Craziness. There were many things that made these months amazing, from the VMAs, to senior year, to other concerts and my 21st birthday.

Overall, it was an incredible year and I have so many people to thank for that. 2009 was quite possibly the best year ever and I can't wait for 2010!