At the end of 2010, I wrote that it had been a hard year of life lessons. In hind sight, 2010 was a merry skip through the park in comparison to 2011. I stupidly hoped that 2011 would teach me more, in the New Year I’ll be wearier of what I wish for.

That said, 2011 wasn’t all blood, sweat and tears.

In 2011 I began to take fitness more seriously. I started being more aware of what I was stuffing my face with, started eating more vegetables, and switched soda for water in the majority of my meals. Who would have thought I would be eating burgers with garnish, or actually eating salad? I exercised regularly and found that when I didn’t go enough I missed it. I hope to continue this trend in to 2012 and actually gain muscle instead of weighing less than a school girl.

Last year I began singing with my church, and this year my confidence grew even more. I joined my youth worship team, playing guitar and singing. I even had the privilege of leading worship many times. I believe the key to performing is becoming comfortable in your own skin, and slowly but surely I am. But worship is not a performance, it’s about God, and learning to remove yourself from the equation is key.

I spent many days on the beach this year, my home away from home, and finally in the December holidays I got tired of waiting on friends and paid for a surfing lesson. Whilst I’m no pro, the few seconds of riding the tiniest of waves has me itching to get back in the sea in 2012 for more.

I made many YouTube videos that I am very proud of this year. The quality of the videos increased beautifully and many friends helped capture some great moments. YouTube monetised my videos, which I hope will lead to a full partnership in the near future. Views increased 43% this year, bringing the total all time views to over 35 000. My goal for next year is triple that number.

Unfortunately, the joys of 2011 were overshadowed by a few major blows. My grandfather passed away on the 10^th of November, his support and love will be missed by our family, but he lives on in our hearts and minds.

On the day of the funeral, my honours results were released. The dismal result was a double blow at a difficult time. In 2012 I will be dusting myself off and trying again. Perhaps this is a lesson of persistence, of picking yourself up, of learning that failure is a necessary part of life. Time will tell.

In the world, there were earthquakes, tsunamis, revolutions, wars, and victories. America took out its revenge on Osama Bin Laden and removed themselves from Iraq. Amy Winehouse and Steve Jobs passed away. The recession took its toll on many, and politicians scrambled with promises of better.

Though I hope for success, joy, and health in 2012, I hope most of all that whatever is thrown my way I will be strong enough to face it, and bold enough to grow from it.