I pulled away from the forum somewhat this year due to the pressures of life, although I still lurk a little and usually read Angie's blog post (although throughout November and December, even that wasn't happening a lot). Despite some personal triumphs, I'm happy to say goodbye to this year. Fashion-wise, there wasn't a lot of expansion (and certainly not a lot of shopping), but more of a confirming of a style that seems to work for me. The addition of a few key pieces -- a useful mixed-media jacket, indispensable ankle-strap sandals, versatile streamlined short boots -- has helped tighten everything up.

the good:
- for fashion: the three aforementioned items, plus a leather biker jacket from my hubby for Christmas (yay! he found me one!)
- for events: the Star Wars premiere in Hollywood
- for accomplishments: I'm killing it at school, but at the cost of all personal time

the bad:
- my mum passed away a week before Christmas. Her decline was slow and agonizing. No one should have to suffer like that. I feel like I should mention it here because I have talked about it a bit over the years. I was unprepared for the grief, and seeing my dad so broken makes it even harder.

I hope to participate more in the coming year, but we will see. Life is busy and fashion has to take a back seat sometimes. Thanks to Angie and Greg and everyone at YLF who makes this an interesting and welcoming place. Happy new year to you all xo