It’s the final day of the year, which makes it the perfect time to reflect on the events of the last 12 months, both in real life and on the blog.
Over the last year I’ve become much more interested in photography, so I thought I’d use a few of my favourite Instagram shots to illustrate some of the things I got up to in 2013.
From both perspectives, 2013 has been a pretty fantastic year for me. I kicked off the year in sparkly style at The Blogcademy in London. I’m happy to say that I’m still in touch with a lot of the amazing people I met there, not to mention all the girls I’ve become online friends with but am yet to meet in real life. Here’s to meeting up in 2014!
The Blogcademy also marked the start of a shift in my approach to life. This year I’ve become a lot braver and embraced opportunities to travel and attend events, even if it meant going alone. After spending one of the snowiest weekends of the year travelling by myself to London, I had no qualms about heading to blog events around the north of England whenever the chance arose.
This included a trip to Manchester for the Blog North Awards in October, where I was runner up in the Best Arts and Culture Blog category. I can’t tell you how much of a boost it was to feel that other people enjoy reading this blog enough to vote. Thank you all again!
Also this year, I’ve given the blog a local focus, by starting my So I’m a Smoggie series, about the ups and downs of life in Middlesbrough. This series has led to some of my most popular posts and has allowed me to connect with some fantastic local people, as well as developing my photography skills, with the goal of highlighting some of the beautiful details that can be found around the town.
But the high point of the year had to be travelling to Iceland. It’s a country that I’ve always dreamed of visiting and I finally decided to stop thinking, “One day…” and just go. Best…decision…ever! We loved Iceland so much that we’re going back this winter!
So as I wave goodbye to 2013 tonight at a murder mystery themed party, I’ll be hoping that next year has some amazing surprises in store!
Happy New Year!
Mike Eccles says
This is a lovely response to the year Amy. The words and pictures work so well together!
Have a great 2014 – I would love to follow your blog example, but am not sure that I am brave enough at present!
Best regards,
Mike
Amy Lord says
Thank you Mike that’s so kind, and Happy New Year! If you need any advice on blogging do get in touch, it can be scary getting started but so worth it.
Kristin - My Life as a Teacup says
What an awesome sounding 2013! Here’s to an equally and even more awesome 2014!
Amy Lord says
Cheers to that Kristin!