STORIES.

Via Pinterest*

Some stories stay with us forever.
We learn this from a young age, whether it's something we read in a book.
Or a movie we watched and fell in love with.
Or, as we get older, it's a story we've experienced.
Something that's happened in our life.
Something we'll never forget.

Some stories you wish you could forget, but they just haunt you. After so many years, I wonder if it'll be forever.

*I can't figure out the original source for this photo - if anyone knows please let me know.

The people you meet.

I love looking back at certain things in my life. Especially people. The ones who move in and stay put, and the ones who float in and out of your life. They all make an impact; some small, some large, some obvious, and some unexpected.

Like a best friend who shares the same obsession with cats as me. I am finally able to let my cat-freak-flag fly, and I love it.

Like my old boss who would engage me in daily deep conversations about life, perspective, society and doing what we want instead of what is expected of us. I've been inspired many times over because of her.

Like an old flame who taught me that guilt is not a reason to stick around. That no matter how hard you try, there are just some things that cannot be fixed.

Like a friend who opened my eyes to new experiences, new ideas and to take more chances. Be open to more.

Like those lost connections in life who you sometimes wonder about. Work harder to keep in touch with the great people you've met.

Like a best friend, who has taught me to be strong and to love myself first. And to never ever settle for less. I'm still working on this.

Everyone that passes through your life can teach you a lesson. 

It's amazing to take a step back and realize how much people have taught you.

Do you ever reflect on the people you've met?

This is the New Year.

I sit here thinking about 2012, all of the things I have done, and all of the changes I have made.
This year has been an amazing learning experience, and what is life without learning?

I got my first non-student job, met a tonne of new people, and spent quality times with the people I love.

I completed a year of a much healthier lifestyle, spent the time reading just for fun (for the first time... ever), and kept up this blog for a whole other year.

Do I have any goals for 2013? 

1. To venture outside my comfort zone more. 

This was a 2012 goal.
I did a bit, but not as much as I had hoped I might. It's back on the list for 2013.

2. To budget and stick to it. 

This is so hard for me. I'm living with my parents without too many expenses, so I can justify "spending" a lot more. 

My goal will be to save 70-75% of my monthly income. 

Aggressive, but really it should be easy for someone in my situation. 

3. Love and appreciate more. 

I live with my family. They get on my nerves. It happens to everyone. 

But I don't want to look back on these years and regret not appreciating them enough. 

Do you have any goals for 2013?

Happy New Year to everyone :)