The time between Christmas and the new year always seems like an opportunity for reflection, doesn’t it? As we begin to close out 2019—and the decade—I sat down to recap the past 365 days. It’s been another exciting year of blogging and I’ve been fortunate to have some amazing opportunities come my way in 2019.
In no particular order, here are a few of my favorite moments:
Top Highlight
Without a doubt, the highlight of my year was having my thyroid cancer survivor story published in TOUGH: Women Who Survived Cancer by Marquina Iliev-Piselli. It was such an honor and a privilege to share my story with the world—and to be featured along with 37 other cancer thrivers—but also in writing my chapter six years after my diagnosis, I got a good feel for just how far I’ve come.
Best Moment
Naturally, the best moment of the year was attending the book launch party for TOUGH this past September in Brooklyn. Seeing everyone who was in the book and those who helped make it a reality, brought the project to life. It was an exciting afternoon and I’m so glad we were all able to come together from near and far and meet in person before the book came out.
Milestone Moment
This year marked ten years since I graduated from the American University in Washington, DC. I’m not quite sure where the time has gone but, wow, a whole decade has flown by. In the ten years since I was a college student, I’ve survived cancer, started this blog and shared my story as a patient advocate, and tried countless different jobs, before finally finding my niche in the non-profit world doing social media and public relations (and that’s the very abbreviated version of what the last ten years have been like).
Most Fun Moment
There were many great travel moments this year, but my (first ever) girls’ trip to the Cayman Islands back in May was a nice memory. The four of us had an amazing time traveling, lounging, and relaxing together, and I enjoyed all of the beautiful beach time.
Best Birthday Moment
My 33rd birthday this year was truly one for the books. The four-day celebration included a lot of love from friends and an overnight stay in New York City, where I saw Joe Bonamassa perform at the Beacon Theatre in one of the best concerts ever.
Thyroid-versary Moment
This past year marked my six thyroid-versary—an anniversary that I always celebrate and a status that I never take for granted. My wonderful work family got in on the celebration this year and surprised me with the sweetest card…and, of course, some sweet treats. Ironically, the final draft of my chapter in TOUGH was also due on the day of my thyroid-versary!
Best Blogging Moment
There were so many great memories I have from blogging this year, that it’s hard to pick just one. In terms of opportunities, I would have to say that sharing my story on Dr. Teplinsky’s Interlude podcast was a highlight. If you haven’t tuned in yet, I highlight suggest subscribing. Dr. Teplinsky is a New Jersey-based oncologist who talks about cancer, nutrition, and overall wellness. Being able to share my story alongside some of the other cancer survivors she has featured was an honor.
Best Friend Moment
My annual apple picking excursion out to the east end of Long Island had an addition this year. I’m so glad one of my good friends was able to join me for the day. It was great to make a day trip out of the excursion and enjoy some fun fall shenanigans while we were out in Water Mill. I’m grateful for new friendships in 2019, but this one, in particular, is very near and dear to me.
Best Self-Care Moment
This year marked getting back into a regular schedule with my daily meditations, thanks to my Calm app. I’ve made meditating a nightly priority and am proud that I’ve been able to complete 160 sessions. Here’s to making it 365 sessions by the end of 2020!
Thank you to everyone who has joined my journey in 2019 on the blog and social media. Whether you’ve been a regular here for the last six years or this was your first year following along, I truly appreciate each one of you. I hope you all have an incredible new year ahead of you!
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