Lauren's (Tardy) Year In Review

Is it seriously 2012? Somehow, among a whirlwind, week-long trip to the east coast, a NYE wedding and then an abrupt thrust back into the real world, I missed this important fact. It's a new year. I should have my missions set. I should have pondered resolutions, stale and fresh, and defined my annual list. I should have laid off the treats during the holidays. I should have done a lot of things to prepare for the new year, like slept, but I did not. And that's okay. And that's why I'm finally publishing my first 2012 blog post. 2011 was an important year for me, full of change, knowledge, travel and growth. And I need to preserve all pivotal events somewhere more reliable than my own memory. So, I'm listing below my personal highlights of last year - gains, losses, life. You may not care about my life, though I promise I'm interesting. Warning: This is a selfish post. It's all about me. But please, have a read then overwhelm me with personal details of your top 2011 moments. I care about your life. Promise.

*Left my job at JibJab of 3.5 years to follow my dream to become a professional writer.

*The moment my orthopedist granted me permission to remove my big black boot and walk on my left foot again.

*The day my orthopedist released me from his care.

*Scored a full-time, work-from-home editing position with LAist, a fabulous L.A. blog I'd been contributing to since January 2011.

*Hudson bought a cabin in Running Springs, CA in March. From this acquisition, I got a taste of what it's like to be a homeowner, to tackle home improvement projects, to cultivate various flower gardens, to have a hideaway nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, 100 miles from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles.

*My nephew, Camden Ryan Lloyd, was born in April, and he's a true Lloyd - a gentle giant. He's the fattest and happiest baby I've ever met.

*Visited with my Mummy five times this year, a sure record since I ran away to California in 2006.

*Rocked the Virgin Islands (U.S. & BVI) twice - once with my mom and once for Hudson's 30th birthday adventure, where we chartered a private catamaran to guide us 'round the islands.

*Adhering to one of my 2011 new year's resolutions, I dropped about 40 pounds last year, though I may or may not have gained a few back in December 2011/January 2012. Don't judge me.

*Dusted off my skiing skills and am shredding the slopes again.

*Experienced Sedona with Grasshoppa.

*Two of my dearest buddies got married.

*Four of my dearest buddies got engaged.

*Three of my dearest ladyfriends are preggers.

*One of my closest ladyfriends gave birth to an adorable baby girl with a fabulous name - Liesel.

*My brother graduated from college.

*Enjoyed visits from a few of my favorite east coasters, including my mama, Crusty Peefart, Beekah, Samuel, Kara and Oggy.

*Reconnected with my crafty spirit via jewelry-making classes.

*COACHELLA.

*I turned 28.

It's been real, 2011. 2012, we need to talk. What are you conquering this year, friends?