What. A. Year. Who would have thought that three simple words could so accurately sum up the last 365 days? Certainly not me, as you all know that I have a slight tendency toward the verbose, grandiose sentences — OK, some may even call me a bit extra at time. What can I say? A lot, apparently. But seriously, 2018 sure is one for the record books. It was a year of some hurt and heartbreak, some medical maladies and milestones and some love and loss. In a word: WHOA. With Christmas just four days away and the beginning of 2019 looming on the horizon, now is the perfect time to do some classic looking back and reflecting a la a Year-In-Review! Because, really, I of all people have the art of reflecting down to an obsessive science. Buckle up, friends! Here we go…

I mused about all things love and relationships, like the power in simply listening to someone, how to help someone who’s grieving, sibling love, losing a parent and life lessons from Ms. Bear!

Disability posts, including traveling with a disability, thoughts on being a disability advocate, disability emojis, mental health awareness, The Disability Film Challenge, person-first language and writing about my disability and continuing the conversation on suicide.

Fun fashion fanfare, such as Style Guides, zodiac tees, heart nails, Pride Month picks, Etsy favorites and an Ode to Flower Crown Photo Filters.

Some memorable Family Photos moments, like spring shopping, Ms. Bear’s NYC adventure, summer walks and lunches outside and my 37th birthday.

There were the usual pop culture posts, like Jurassic World, the new TV season, In Praise of Claire Underwood, Bohemian Rhapsody, Britney Spears’ 20th anniversary and my first Taylor Swift criticism.

…but in addition to that lightness and breeziness, there was a distinct heaviness that hung in the air all year. The social and political upheaval of the last couple years (at least!) weighed heavily on my heart, and that heaviness took the form of posts on How to Help Stop Family Separation, The Importance of Press Freedom, The State of Women’s Equality, Men and the #MeToo Era and the Midterm Elections.

For all the frustrations of 2018, there were a couple bright spots. Maybe that’s why, in light of everything, I’m clinging to these happy moments more than ever. What happy moments, you ask? Ooooh, you know, just that time I BECAME A CARTOON (twice!) — seriously, I’m still not over the sheer thrill of that! I highly recommend it, if you ever get the chance. Seeing yourself in cartoon form is truly life-changing. My life is still not the same after that one!

And, the other?? That special day MY BLOG TURNED 10. Where has the time gone? I’ve been asking myself that question looooong before my blog anniversary last month. Time just goes by way too fast.

Outside of blogging, my freelance career was on the up and up as well in 2018. I’m not sure what it is, but something just seemed to click this year. I got into a rhythm and the ideas just kept flowing. There are still a few new pieces I haven’t shared yet (look for those in the new year), and I’m incredibly proud of the work I did in 2018. I broke into new publications like Harper’s Bazaar, Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post and The Fix. I also came into my own writing op-eds and published 12 op-eds in 12 months on CNN Opinion, which is becoming my favorite place to write for!

And finally, on a sad note, we said goodbye to sweet Harry in April. We still talk about him every day, and it’s comforting to remember cute stories about him and smile when we think of his little kitty quirks. As my mom always says, “He was such a good boy!” Indeed, he was.

We also welcomed Whitney into our home, and she’s added some liveliness and whimsy to our house and our lives. She’s spunky and curious and knows her own mind, and it’s adorable to see her carry her favorite toy around the house! And in case you’re wondering, she and Stella are still working on their bond.

Whew, like I said, what a year this has been! Accordingly, too, this year-in-review has been one of the most epic blog post I’ve ever written! I want to thank you all for reading and sticking with me all these years. I’m so glad we’re connected and you’ve helped to make this blog journey unforgettable. I wouldn’t change a thing! Something tells me, in the grand scheme of things, this is only the beginning. And you know what? That makes me incredibly EXCITED, EXCITED, EXCITED. Did I mention how utterly excited I am??

It’s just past 6pm here in the Midwest, and as soon as I hit publish on this year-in-review post, I will officially be on vacation! I’m looking forward to spending the holiday with my mom and Janelle; I know it sounds corny, but home really is where the heart is. As long as I’m with them, I’ll be happy and content. I hope you’re able to find happiness and contentment this holiday season, whatever form that takes for you. Be gentle and loving to yourself. Be lazy if you want. Be yourself. And be ready to take on 2019 with vim and vigor. We got this!!!

Here’s to the festive spirit of the season! I’ll be back to regular posting on Tuesday, January 8th, and I’m excited to share lots of exciting things, especially some blog posts I’ve had on my To Blog About list for months and months! Also, feel free to send me your thoughts and ideas any time — just email me at mellow1422@aol.com!!! I always love hearing from you!! And I hope you enjoyed this year-in-review!

And as always, feel free to connect with me on Pinterest, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Bloglovin!

I love you, friends!! xoxo

P.S. What would you include in your year-in-review? I’d love to hear all about it too!