2011 in Review.

Since my husband and I are off to Michigan to ring in 2012, I figured I'd take a look back at the year like every other blogger on the planet.  2011 was certainly a quiet, but pretty fantastic year for me, and while there were some minor bumps in the road, I couldn't be happier with the way things turned out.  To be perfectly honest, I really thought that by now, my husband and I would either be pregnant or have a baby.  But sometimes, life doesn't always turn out the way you expect it to, and it's important to focus on the accomplishments and blessings rather than the downfalls.  And above all, EVERYTHING HAPPENS FOR A REASON.  I swear, I never really believed that until recently.


In 2011, I had several goals.  I wanted to "live like a European" - which meant that I wanted to embrace life's little moments, spend time with loved ones, and understand that it's always ok to have dessert.  I also wanted to continue to remain committed to my fitness, and arguably, this is where I excelled, as I now work out seven days a week (unless my body tells me I need a break).  I also wanted to learn how to alleviate my stress levels and not sweat the small stuff.  I've definitely gotten better at this, but there's always room for improvement.


So, without further adieu, here are the little moments that graced the blog this year...


In January, my "Top 5 Thursdays" feature was still going strong, and I shared my affinity for 90's music...


In February, I shared my love for all things food, and waxed philosophical on Chicago Restaurant Week (arguably my favorite week of the year)!

(Dessert at Blue 13)

The hubs and I had an amazing time in Austin, TX in March.  We spent time with old friends, family and of course, FOOD!  

I ran my fastest 8K in April.  This may not seem like a major milestone, but it was the start of several PR's this year!

For my 31st birthday, my friends and I rented a room in a Korean karaoke bar in May.  I also ran the OneAmerica 5o0 Festival Mini-Marathon in Indianapolis, where I PR'd again!

(Seriously.  This is what one wall looks like in a karaoke room.  The rooms are super bedazzled with crazy lights.  And you haven't lived until you've tried to sing Britney Spears in Korean.)

The lovely Neely and Ashley came to visit me here in Chicago in June!  We had a BLAST!

My husband and I celebrated our wedding anniversary in July! We spent some time in New York City and Ithaca, NY - a PERFECT celebration for two people who love food and travel!

(Photo by Matt Schademann)

In August, my brother got married!  SUCH a fun weekend...

I expressed my love for Asian babies in September.  What can I say?  It was a slow month...

In October, I remained committed and focused to my running, and in November, I ran the Hot Chocolate 15K.

And since it's still December, well, you can go back and read the posts!

I have a feeling that 2012 is going to be a magical year.  Thanks for stopping by this little blog of mine.  I hope you'll continue to follow along with my adventures into the new year!  Cheers, and Happy New Year!