Happy New Year’s Eve! The other night, I looked back on my posts from the past year and decided on a few favorites to review. Throughout the year, I wasn’t exactly feeling like it was particularly the best year ever. It was just alright. But looking back, I realize that this year was full of so many good things!! It’s crazy.

In January, I tried out homemade ice cream because I guess I couldn’t wait until summer. This bourbon baked apple ice cream was one of the best kinds of ice cream I’ve ever had. I can’t wait to make it again, but it’s going to be a while because it’s cold over here. Brrrr!

Galentine’s Day is one of the best fictional (but real) holidays ever. I’m so glad that I decided to throw a Galentine’s Day party earlier this year. Nothing is more fun than heart-shaped everything, glitter, and girl talk. But that’s just my opinion. :)

In March, my friends Steph and Dan got married. They’re a couple of my favorite people, and their wedding was one of the most meaningful days I’ve ever witnessed. In the weeks leading up to the big day, I had a wonderful time participating in some bridal party events and throwing a cute vintage kitchen-inspired bridal shower with Steph’s sister.

On this sunny day in April, I was walking through the farmer’s market when I ran into MY FAVORITE MUSICIAN EVER. What? That doesn’t happen in real life. But it did happen! Jenny Lewis was super nice and she gave me tickets to the Postal Service show that night. I am still freaking out. You can read the details here! It’s a fun story.

This dreamcatcher was my favorite DIY of the year. I started so many dreamcatchers without finishing them and when I finally finished this one, I was surprised at how easy it was. I meant to make a ton more of them. That is going on my January to-do list. :)

Oh, the selfie challenge… I was surprise at myself for taking part in this, and I was surprised I finished it. Now I’m kinda embarrassed by how many selfies must be on my Instagram. Regardless, it was a really cool experience! A couple of years ago, I never showed my face in any blog posts.

My family and I rented a house in Mt. Hood for a few days over the summer. It was wonderful! We played bocce ball, croquet, and card games that got out of control. We did a ton of puzzles as always. There was also a hot tub and it was raining for some of the time. Bliss!

Halloween isn’t my favorite holiday, but as soon as I realized I had a puppy to dress up, I was all about it. Oh yeah, did I mention my mom got a puppy? Welcoming Copper into the family was a huge highlight of the year. I love him. Anyway, I made Copper a Dumbledore costume which lasted for a few short moments before he tore it up. I managed to get a few cute photos though. :)

Lastly, I am so proud of my lavender bark! It feels like a big deal because I truly am not good with recipes. Something always goes wrong. Gotta stick with the easy stuff. Thankfully, this was super simple and fast to make.

I have learned in order to have exciting things happen in life, you have to make them happen. Make something. Throw a party. Try new recipes. Go on an adventure. For the whole new year I plan to write down my goals and dreams one month at a time (so I don’t overwhelm myself) and keep a tiny notebook handy always. :)

What were your favorite moments of 2013?