Reflecting on 2016

I'm reflecting on 2016 today. As you read, enjoy some of my favorite photos from this year. 

2016 was a crazy year for the world. There were multiple times that I couldn't believe what was going on in the world. For me personally, 2016 was a year of growth. I grew in my self-confidence, in my faith, in relationships, and just all around in my life. I learned so much about life and myself. It was a good year.

I know not everyone believes in God, but I do, so my faith is important to me. My faith and relationship with Jesus is stronger than ever. I prayed daily and picked up my Bible more than I ever have. I realized that for me, my relationship with God is the most important thing. I stopped trying to control my life and let Him guide me.

I developed some of the most meaningful relationships I've ever had outside of family and my boyfriend, David. Most of my friendships have started from my sorority and I love that. I never thought I would be a Big (a Big is like a mentor to a younger sister), but I did and my Little is now one of my best friends who I can talk to about anything with no judgment. Ever. Some of my best friends are also my sorority sisters and it is amazing. I can be authentic and never be judged.

I found out how to love myself. I'm working on losing some weight and making some lifestyle choices for myself, but I love who I am. I really learned to embrace every part of me. I also took chances and believed in myself. I went out of my comfort zone and it has been so rewarding.

This blog also grew in 2016. It turned one year in October and it has come a long way since the first post was created. I also started YouTube, which is something that I've wanted to do for years, but I never went through with it. I regret that now, but it is better late than never. This blog helped me and you have helped me. I love this blog. I love creating and because you are here reading this, you have given me motivation to keep doing something that I love. Thank you. Stick around because this is just the beginning.

There were quite a few highlights in 2016. Just a few things that come to mind: I met Nick Jonas (my favorite celeb in case you didn't know) and have his guitar pick; I had the opportunity to spend a day working at the AJC; I became senior editor for Her Campus GSU; I became a Big to Casey, who is now one of my best friends, roommate, and AOII sister; I celebrated five years with my boyfriend, David; I got into the Atlanta Press Club. The highlight of 2016 was definitely being a Bert Show intern. The mornings were early, but it was the best summer of my life. I learned so much and I absolutely fell in love with it. It made me really look forward to my future. I hope that I can work somewhere that I enjoy as much as I enjoyed being there. 

2017 holds the last two semesters I have in college. By the end of it, I will be a college graduate and I can't believe it. Time really does fly when you're having fun. I'm excited for what 2017 has to offer and I am so ready to keep living life. 2017, please be good to be.

xo, 

Amanda