2013: Year in Review

As I sit writing this on December 30th, I'm struck that I'm entering 2014 as a completely and wholly different person than who entered 2013. I have grown and prospered. Early 2013 was not easy. It was an uphill struggle following a heavy relationship breakdown but I picked myself up and grew. I sit here today proud of the woman I've become and I can't wait for 2014!

There aren't many photos from the early months of 2013 because I was definitely in a funk. That's why I like this picture in the snow from January. I remember feeling as if the snow was going to wash all of the pain I was feeling etc. away. And I hate snow too! I remember feeling like everything was going to be ok - and it was!

The next highlight of my year was by far the half marathon on February 27th. 13.1 miles. Even now it feels like a dream. I did it! Me! I still can't believe it. I do regret not training more as it was really difficult, I'm not going to lie but otherwise this was a massive achievement!

Skipping forward (I told you there were no photos!) to mid June and my trip to Copenhagen! Whilst it was just a short few days away for the first time I was went out and discovered an unknown city on my own. Was I scared? Yes. But did I do it? Absolutely. Copenhagen filled me with confidence for my study abroad year and it was amazing to discover such a beautiful place. 

At the end of June the girls of Tone It Up UK met up for a windy visit to Brighton! It was lovely to meet the women who had been encouraging each other all throughout the third annual bikini series! Meeting fellow TIU sisters is always incredible because it's amazing to finally put a face to a name! One of my goals for next year is to continue meeting more of my family!

Speaking of the bikini series!!! This is always my favourite time of year in the Tone It Up Calendar and by the first day of summer I felt more confident than I have in years. Since April I had lost 20lbs and felt incredible. 

Early July was my baby sister's prom! I remember having this feeling of pride and also shock! My baby sister had left high school and has turned into this amazing, confident, beautiful young woman! My sister and I are so so close so to see her like this was so moving!

One of my biggest highlights of 2013 has to be the two weeks I spent in Kefalonia, Greece. It was just idyllic. It surpassed anything I had ever imagined and was just the most amazing holiday. Visiting with my family and my Aunt, Uncle and cousin was perfect. Everything was just so beautiful, the weather was so warm, the ocean was gorgeous and I cannot wait to go back to Greece!

End of August 2013 was lovely! My parents and I went up to a temporary outdoor cinema on the beach to watch one of my dad's favourite films - Top Gun! It was lovely to spend the time with them before I went back to university to begin year 2! 

Meeting and falling in love with my boyfriend from August through to now has been the most incredible journey. AB is kind, caring, loving and is all I could ever ask for. I am blissfully happy!

My 20th birthday was an amazing few days! I'm officially a woman! No escaping it now. Dinner with the girls, a night away with AB, family time - everything was incredible. 

The Christmas season was as magical as always. This year AB and I went about creating our own mini traditions which was so enjoyable but also being able to spend time with family and do our own traditions was amazing. From watching Christmas films to decorating Rice Krispie cake houses was fabulous!

Christmas Day was lovely. Having the family together and spending time eating fabulous food, playing games and enjoying all the day has to offer was and is always a highlight of my year!

That's it! I've enjoyed 2013 immensely and I cannot wait to discover all that 2014 has to offer including my big move to another continent in August! 

Love as always and best wishes for a healthy and prosperous New Year!

Georgie xx