2013 – My Year in Review

I can’t believe that today is the last day of the year! 2013 has been quite a journey for me, with some incredible highs and not-so-great lows – a similar story to pretty much everyone else I’d imagine. And while I know a lot of people say you should never look back because you’re not going that way, personally I think there’s some merit in taking a little time to reflect on the year that was and the lessons you learned. After all, those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it [that’s George Santayana, if you’re interested]. 

Here are some of my most memorable moments from the last 12 months. Note that I say memorable, not necessarily favourite (although most of them were pretty darn awesome)…

Starting Lazy Girl Fitness
I’m a personal trainer, so it goes without saying that I love fitness and health. I’m also a writer, so you know, I like to write things. How it took me so long to combine these two passions to create Lazy Girl Fitness I’ll never know. I have my good friend Chris Carroll (of The Life Creative) to thank for it in many ways – he pestered and pestered me until it was easier to get my ass into gear and get started than continue making excuses.

Turning 30
I know it’s a cliche, but there is something quite confronting about leaving the comfort of your 20s and hitting the big 3-0. As a child – and even as a teenager – 30 seemed a long way away, and there were so many things I assumed I’d have achieved by this age. It’s difficult to let go of those perceived ideas of where/who/what I’d be, and just enjoy life for what it is. I wouldn’t say I’m there yet; let’s call it a work in progress.

Meeting John (of John and Carrie fame)
John is a homeless man that lives in the centre of Sydney with his gorgeous little doggy Carrie. Earlier in the year, some asshole thought it would be amusing to kick Carrie, and Carrie scuttled away, getting herself lost in the process. A huge social media campaign was launched, and thankfully John and Carrie were reunited. A couple of months later I was lucky enough to run into John and Carrie. Both were happy, healthy and awed by the support they received from the general public. If you see them around, don’t be afraid to stop for a chat (I’m sure dog food, human food and donations would always be appreciated too).

My Guest Post for Lululemon
As you’re probably aware, I’m a rather large fan of (read: slightly obsessed with) Lululemon. So when I was asked to do a guest post on their blog I pretty much wet myself with excitement. In case you missed it, you can find the article HERE. It’s kind of a big deal.

My Little Brother’s Wedding
In October, Fraser was lucky enough to marry his best friend, Nikita. I was part of the bridal party and I can honestly say that it was one of the biggest privileges of my life to stand beside them as they committed to each other for life. I know it sounds corny, but to see two people so in love is just incredible. Not to mention the sheer awesomeness of the reception, where Fraser and I did a cracking rendition of The Gambler – a feat we hope to repeat tonight for New Year’s Eve.

Hitting 700 ‘likes’ on Facebook
When I started this blog, I couldn’t imagine 50 people being particularly interested in what I have to say. Now it seems there are over 700 people who at least tolerate me on Facebook, plus quite a few more who actually want each post emailed to them! I know half of you are only interested in my pictures of Lou, but you know what… that’s ok too; I still want to say a massive thank you for taking the time to be part of the LGF team!

The first time someone I didn’t actually know commented on my blog (same goes for Facebook)
It’s one thing to force my colleagues and family to like and/or comment on things (and I do love hearing from you mum!) it’s another thing entirely to realise I’ve connected with someone I’ve never met before who is genuinely interested in what I have to say. It brings a grin to my face every time, so keep it coming!

Buying a New Car
OK I know this is a bit weird, but this year (yesterday actually) I picked out my very first brand new car. I’ve never purchased anything of this magnitude for myself before, so it really feels like an achievement… something that is all mine. I’m such a grown up now and feeling rather excited about driving back to Sydney in it.

Moving House
This year, a significant (and difficult) life event meant that I needed to move house. My parents and brother are small business owners, and during their busiest time of the year my mother and brother left my dad and sister-in-law to hold the fort while they drove eight hours to Sydney to help set me up in my new pad. I literally couldn’t have done it without the support of the four of them (plus my best friend and her boyfriend). While the weekend was an incredibly difficult one in many ways, it also showed me (again) how lucky I am to have such wonderful family and friends around me.

Like me, you’ve probably had a mixed bag in 2013, full of unexpected surprises, happiness, frustration, sadness, confusion, tiredness, energy, hope, love, friendship, disappointments, achievements and a million other things. Before you get too far into 2014 take a moment to yourself to remember the moments from 2013 that really took your breath away – these are the ones that will guide you through next year and beyond.

Happy New Year Team, see you in 2014!