Well, here we are once again… The end of the year. The time when we sit back and reflect on the past 12 months. And let me tell you, 2008 has been quite the ride…

Professionally, 2008 was full of fantastic opportunities for me. I had the chance to get a real taste of what the magazine industry is like, thanks to a series of amazing internships, and I have to say… I am in love. I’ve loved magazines for as long as I can remember, but actually seeing my name in them and contributing to the whole process is a total rush. I hope that 2009 will bring many more opportunities and challenges as I keep working towards my goal of having a full-time career in writing.

Personally, 2008 combined the highest and lowest moments of my life thus far. In March, I was lucky enough to become engaged to my best friend – another incredible milestone in an already incredible story. In June, I graduated from journalism school with high honours and found myself firmly planted on cloud nine. I’d made wonderful new friends and had two years of great memories that I’ll always cherish.

But 2008 was not without its share of heartbreak and tough lessons. In August, I learned the true meaning of loss when my Nana passed away after a very long stay in the hospital. After being one of the closest people to me for the last 25 years, suddenly she was gone. While I am so thankful that she no longer has to suffer or feel any more pain, I’d be lying if I said that my world won’t always be a little dimmer without her bright smile to light it up. She will always be my favourite person in the entire world. I hope that I will continue to be the kind of person that would make her proud.

So, after a very full year, I find myself looking to the future with great hope and anticipation… And gratitude. I would like to close this final post of 2008 with a sincere thank you to everyone who has supported and encouraged me this year, both personally and professionally. I look forward to showing you great things in 2009!

Happy New Year!