Moments that Mattered 2013

2013 was a year that started off well but gradually went a bit downhill. I've never had a year quite like it and I want to go onward and upward and enjoy life to its fullest. Although there were some downs in 2013 there were definitely a lot of ups.

The most obvious moment that mattered in 2013 was that I started Gingerbread Smiles. I didn't think that when I started my blog it would create such a platform for me to meet new people, take part in new opportunities and improve my confidence. I started this blog on July 21st on a whim not really thinking much would come from it. I'm really happy that I've continued to keep my blog going and get it where it is now. I'm really proud of the time and effort that I have put into Gingerbread Smiles and I hope my readers enjoy it as much as I do!

Secondly myself and my boyfriend went on our first holiday abroad together to Italy. We spent 5 days in Florence and then 2 in Pisa. Florence was the most gorgeous place I've ever been. Having only been to beach resorts in the past it was lovely to find that no-one wanted to bother you on the streets and you were left to wander. I felt safe on the streets in Florence and it was so clean! We went in August for my birthday and it was unbelievably hot but we still managed to walk around all over to take in the amazing sights. There is so much to see in Florence, I would highly recommend it. After our 5 days in Florence were up we took the train to Pisa to see the leaning tower and stayed until we got the plane home the next day. This was the best holiday I've been on and I can't wait for more to come!

Another of the moments that mattered from 2013 would be planning and pulling off a huge week long event at work. This was the most stressful thing I've ever done in my life which had me worrying every day but I also think it was the most rewarding. The event was to celebrate 50 years since Tees Dock opened and the week included three dinners for long serving existing and ex-employees, two educational days for local schools, one family fun day and one stakeholder event. All these events took place in one marquee at the dock that had to be changed internally each day to fit the different event. When the week was in full swing I was so happy that people were enjoying themselves and it felt good to know that I'd been a part of making that possible.

Of course, there were a lot of other good and bad moments that mattered in 2013 but I think these are the three that stand out to me. It's lovely to have a look back over the good parts of my year and see what I have achieved. I can't wait to see what 2014 will bring!