Goodbye 2012, Hello 2013

How do you say it? 

Two-Oh-Twelve or Twenty Twelve?

I say it as Two-Oh-Effing-Twelve.

It has been one hell of a ride, and I still can't believe I made it out alive.

As any other year, a lot has happened. But this time around, I hit so many milestones that I just can't help giving myself a pat on the back.

I made important life decisions, chose between crossroads, fell and stood up by myself and all in all just tried to be a champion at battles against myself.

Whether I succeeded.. let's wait for the answer this year and see if I can reap the rewards.

And before I start complaining and whining I want to just say one thing:

Alhamdulillah.

I truly appreciate all that I have gained throughout this year (and all through my life).

Thank you Allah. I know I have been asking for too much, that I sometimes forget to thank You.

All the hard truths, brutal experiences.. I appreciate them all.

Very loving and harmonious family who's always there for me regardless, understanding boyfriend who I can't imagine living without now, a few great friends that I really cherish, fun acquaintances and new friends, nice colleagues and workplace, a job that I'm starting to really have a soft spot for, comfortable new house (where I finally have my own room), and the ability to travel as I want.

Thank you.

The only standing question now is, what was I doing at the end of 2012 and the start of 2013?

I was here.

I was praying right in front of the Kaabah, with a few thousand other Muslims from all over the world.

It was definitely an amazing opportunity and I count myself lucky.

Definitely the right way to end and start the year. I pray that I will be able to make this an annual tradition.

And so to 2012, I thank you for being a great teacher of experience, and I have come out a little wiser.

I look forward to a rocky (where's the fun in not having a few turbulances? :p) yet fruitful year with the people I love the most around me.

And now I officially say so long to you 2012, a year that I used to know and you shall be in the equation that makes me who I am right now.

And I say hello 2013. Please treat me well.


The Best of Me - The Starting Line