In true David Letterman style, here is my top 10 moments/events/experiences of 2011, in no particular order, with some pictures as illustrations!
1. Getting my job offer in January I whole-heartedly love my job. It's challenging and rewarding and a great fit. I also love my boss. This week he used some of his frequent flier miles to upgrade me to first class on our trip to Charlotte next week. This is just one example of the kind/thoughtful things my boss does for me.
2. My Paris trip. It was truly the perfect way to celebrate my 30th birthday. It was an amazing trip, and I will treasure that solo trip to Paris, and the memories I made during that trip, for the rest of my life. And luckily, most of those memories are well-documented on my France blog.
3. The Paris-themed birthday party that my dear friends Brooke & Amanda threw for me. Celebrating my 30th surrounded by family, friends, and delicious French-inspired food was the perfect way to celebrate entering a new decade!
4. Passing the Series 7 & 63 exam. I needed to pass these exams for work so was relieved when I passed both on my first attempt. Phew!
5. Meeting my nephew Charlie & niece Anna for the first time. I'm sure a proud aunt and was so excited to gain a niece and nephew this year - both of which are healthy and beautiful!
6. Passing the Level I CFA exam. I have never worked so hard for something and been so uncertain I would succeed, so I cannot really explain the joy and satisfaction of finding out I was one of the 39% who passed the level I CFA. I cried tears of joy and have probably never felt so proud of myself. But I definitely earned that pass as I was studied by butt off.
7. Being asked to be a bridesmaid by both Amber and Nora. I think the fact that I was asked to be in the weddings of two girls I met through blogging is a testament to the authenticity of relationships that can be formed through blogging. I was honored and touched to be asked to be part of their special day and am so excited to stand up there next to both of them!
8. Moving into my downtown condo. This was probably the boldest decision I made in 2011, but is the decision that has had the biggest impact in my life. This decision has made a HUGE improvement in my quality of life. I couldn't be happier and have no desire to ever leave this condo - although I don't own it, so eventually I will have to buy it or move out... but that is a decision for another time down the road.
9. Julia Child Night. The 3rd Annual Julia Child Night was simply amazing. I absolutely love planning this event with my aunt and look forward to our 4th annual Julia Child night next fall!! We have already discussed menu ideas! :)
10. PR'ing my Victoria half and meeting my sub-2 hour goal. I really did not think I would accomplish this goal. I have my coaches to thank for this, they totally changed my approach to training and it made a world of difference! In addition to PR'ing, this weekend was wonderful as I got to spend time with Amber, Lauren, and Leigh. We had so much fun exploring Victoria together. I would definitely do another trip with these girls in a heart beat!!
So there you have it - 2011 summed up in a selection of wonderful moments. It feels a bit braggy to list them out like this, but dang it, 2010 was EPICALLY HORRIBLE. Those closest to me know how hard that year was, so I think I earned a year full of wonderful accomplishments and memories.
What were your best moments of 2011?
