2016

Yay! New year - new list(s).
I can't wait to start using this book/journal!

Like the quote from A Tale Of Two Cities says, "It was the best of times. It was the worst of times."

2016 - what a year.

Thankfully, the good has (almost) always outweighed the bad.

I spent more time offline - and more time IRL with those whom I have meaningful relationships.
I fell in love with musicals (specifically, Hamilton).
I finished my sophomore year of college.
I was captivated by the Summer Olympics held in Rio this year.
I started volunteering at a local non-profit, which opened my eyes in a whole new way.
I cheered on my favorite football team(s), the presidential candidate I hoped to win, and those on my college journey.
I realized how much I truly love to travel. Wanderlust is real!
I finished my favorite semester of college (this past fall).
I traveled to new + old places with friends and family alike.
I learned how to maintain balance with my schoolwork and social life.
I learned to appreciate and understand the food I eat, and why an exercise routine is important.
I started cooking/baking again, and made time for things that make me happy, like reading books.

The bonds with my family and friends have been strengthened more than I ever thought possible.
I learned how to appreciate every single moment and take each day as it comes. 

I am thankful for all I've learned, and even more grateful for realizing that the best things aren't things - they're people, places, and memories.

I've loved and cried and laughed and had my heart broken more times than I can count.

From spending time with those less fortunate for weeks on end to filling my brain with new and exciting information in my classes, this year has been one for the books.

My hands have been covered in flour.
I've filled my phone with photos.
And my heart has never been so full.
I lived this year. Really, truly lived.

It's amazing to see what all one can accomplish if he/she steps away from the screens that seem to captivate our every waking moment.
I stopped wishing, and started doing.

There are so many other wonderful things that happened this year with a few not so great mixed in, but all in all, this year has been amazing.

Thank you 2016.
I'm ready to welcome 2017 with open arms.
Here's to the new year!

P.S. Also, check out this list and another here. I think they're pretty awesome!