First off, it’s hard to believe that 2014 is just a few hours from being a thing of the past.  It was a truly remarkable year full of lots of unexpected surprises, delights, and some sad news.  I watched blogging friends welcome babies, buy a home, complete a triathlon, live the wild and cancer-free life, travel to the Last Frontier, explore everything that New York City has to offer, and showcase the most delicious meals and gorgeous photographs.

A quick recap of everything that’s happened to me in the last 365 days:

• fulfilled New Year’s Resolution of completing a 5K every month of the year
• traveled to Boston and New Hampshire
• lost two grandparents and my brother-in-law’s father
• traveled throughout Costa Rica
• bought a home
• started a new job
• became a pet parent to a silly little boy named Baxter
• met Jason Segel at the beach
• dated nice guys, awkward guys, rude guys, foreign guys, and immature guys
• rediscovered my love of cooking, art, and having close friends

Today is also another very important milestone.

On New Year’s Eve three years ago, Defining Wonderland was started.  That would be the leather anniversary for those who wish to celebrate the traditional way.  It’s hard to believe that it’s only been three years as I feel like I’ve been writing this blog forever.  The friends I have made and the renewed connection with all of my supporters has filled me with a joy that I can never forget.  My heartfelt gratitude for everyone who reads, comments, or writes to me about the blog.  Those words of encouragement mean more than you could ever imagine and it keeps me going post after post.

2015 will be full of its own challenges as I attempt to complete my 30-Before-30 list.  In addition to that, I look forward to new resolutions.  This year, I will be asking for what I want.  This is something I’ve never been good at, particularly when it comes to relationships, but I need to get over it.  If you don’t ask for what you want, the answer is always no.  Coming up on my thirtieth year, I need to learn to ask for what I want sooner rather than later.

I’d also like to learn something creative in the coming year.  For years, I’ve dreamed about learning to knit or crochet, but it just hasn’t happened yet.  In 2015, I resolve to do at least one creative thing a month.  Whether it be learning a new skill or practicing another one, 2015 is going to be a creative year for me.

So there you have it, Wonderlings.  I wish you all much love, laughter, and fortune in the coming year.  May you each find peace and joy in every aspect of your days.

And have a very Happy New Year.