reflecting on 2013

 

 

 

 

Here I am again, in my apartment in Japan, typing up my reflection of this past year.

This year was crazier than last year, especially the last half of the year. As some of you may or may not know, my father passed away in August due to a tragic motorcycle accident. When I first received news of this, I felt like my life broke into a million pieces and my body was drained of all happiness and life. Being halfway across the globe didn't help the situation either, but I booked the first flight available and flew back home to be with my family. My two weeks back in California were short and stressful in many ways, but I was, and still am, extremely grateful for the support from my friends and family during the most difficult time of my life. And I'm so glad my family is closer than ever. I wish I could still talk to my dad and tell him about some of the accomplishments I made this year. But that might have to wait 'til I see him, hopefully in heaven. Despite that, now I have more of a reason to work harder this upcoming year to make him proud.


I did have some better, happier times this year. My first trip/fashion show in Vietnam, recording & writing original tracks with musicians in Tokyo, meeting new people and making new friends, strengthening existing friendships, my promotion at work, new hairstyle/ new look, and a new special person in my life.  I know my list is so vague, but one thing I can say is, I am truly thankful for all the experiences I've had this year, good and bad. They've made me a stronger person, and helped me set new goals for 2014.



I hope you all had a great 2013, and may the upcoming year bring you many more worthwhile experiences and happiness.  Thank you all so much for keeping up with my blog - I wouldn't have been able to continue it this long without your support, seriously! I hope you all look forward to my posts next year! :)




I've blabbed on too long, so see you all next year!





Much love,


Samantha Mariko