Last New Years Eve, Phil and I joked with our friends that we were going to book a 3-month trip to South America and Central America. We were sitting at an Argentinean  steak house in Wicker Park … eyeing up so many delicious foods saying well this is what we will be eating for 3 months. Yes, I was going to quit my job, move out of my high-rise apartment and live out of a backpack in countries where I spoke “un poco” espanol.

No one thought we would really do it. But New Years Day hit … and I was hitting “buy” on a plane ticket that was leaving in 21 days for Lima, Peru. It was exhilarating and exciting. I felt like I could take on the world … without really knowing where this adventure would lead.

One year later, I wonder how drastically my life might change in 2013. This past year has been full of incredible life-altering experiences. I hiked to Macchu Picchu, lived in Costa Rica, pursued my dream full-time, worked with amazing clients, and was actually happy … all year. It truely has been the best year for me – ever.

So as I count down to midnight with my bubbly in hand and Phil at my side, I will count my blessings and smile knowing how much can change in just one year.