Hi Lovely Readers,

I hope you had a wonderful, magical Christmas. 

How quick has 2016 gone? I can so clearly remember writing my goodbye 2015 posts as if it was just last month, but it was 12 whole months ago. How is that? I often find that it is nice at this time of year to reflect on the past year, whether there has been; crap times, happy times, sad times, memorable times or even just boring times. It is all relevant, as in time it is these little pieces that shape us as individuals. This year I realised (as stupid as this sounds), a year is just a year. It is like a month, a week, a day, an hour, a minute, a second; a measure in time, however we place so much great emphasis on new years resolutions and becoming a "better person" because for many a new year is like a new slate. A fresh start. Personally, I believe we should look at each day in this manner, we have the ability every single day to have a more positive outlook, a better attitude, a kinder heart etc and we should remember that, but I can see how a new year can be such a refreshing outlook on life and the people we are against the people we aspire to be. Now, before I go looking at my hopes for the new year, I thought looking back at 2016 would be something quite nice. 

One thing I'll thank 2016 for is giving me a thicker skin. Yes, I still cry at Super Vet on TV and when Alan Rickman appears in a film, but I can honestly say 2016 has made me stronger. Prior to 2016 I feel I lived a lot of my life within a comfort zone and it was very rare that I'd step out of that comfort zone, however embarking on a new chapter of my life meant that I had to toughen up pretty quickly, it was this year I began my new job; an aerobics instructor (fitness class instructor), Zumba Instructor and gym instructor. I can honestly say, I love my job and doing this job has given me a vast amount of great opportunities, grown my confidence and independence, made me feel as if I'm having an impact and let me meet so many fantastic, inspiring people (customers and colleagues). However, it is fair to say it isn't all fun, you do come across the odd challenge where you are really pushed; whether it be someone with bad manners or just plain rudeness, but this is all okay - this is life. You have to learn the hard way that no matter how hard you try, not everyone is going to like you or like what you do, and that's ok. You just have to suck it up, be polite and get on with it. It can be hard, but you have to move on. I can safely say I am so thankful to have my job and look forward to see what the next year holds as far as that is concerned. 

Zumba, Zumba & more Zumba - 2016 has been a big year for me in terms of my passion of Zumba. Of course I started teaching classes this year and oh my, it has been a blast! You meet so many inspiring individuals; all of different lifestyles, backgrounds and personalities, and they are all coming together to do one simple thing: Zumba. Seeing their smiles as you do a new routine, or an old classic just brings a huge smile to my face. It's refreshing, amongst all the hate and crap that goes on in the world to come somewhere where everyone accepts each other and enjoy with each other. Being a Zumba instructor is amazing!
This year I've been lucky enough to work on special Zumba events, attend the ZIN Academy in London (amazing experience!!!! And I even got to meet Beto, Loretta and Marcie!!) and attend my B2 Training with the ever so wonderful Sandra Bayliss (who is by far one of the greatest people ever!) 

Relationships - Crikey, relationships with people can be tough, but when you find a good one, hold onto it. This year I truly enjoyed the company of the wonderful people in my life. You should only surround yourself with people who make you feel happy and comfortable, and this is something I hope to carry on through to 2017.
Education - I love working but at times, work in this area has been very challenging this year, but I am doing my best to succeed and that's all you can do. (P.S the Geography field trips were some of my highlights! :))
Mindset - I truly and firmly believe that life is too short, and you should try to enjoy each day as if it's your last, sometimes this can be easier said than done when things get too much, but it's something we should all consider. 
Blog - I have been a tragically bad blogger this year and I can only apologise. I feel I took a break from the blogging world to focus on my world. I will try harder next year. 

Highlight - A day spent at the National Eisteddfod Genedlaethol 2016 - What a day. Best day ever. (Fondest of memories)

Want to see more pics from my 2016 and follow my 2017 journey? Follow my instagram: @evejohnson15 

There is so much more to talk about, but I'd hate to bore you. Maybe another day, huh? In short, here are my hopes for 2017: to work hard, to enjoy, to take opportunities, to take risks, to do things that make me happy and to continue to appreciate the great people in my life. Let's make 2017 a happy one. 

I can't wait for 2017, as I'm leaving 2016 with some exciting possibilities. 

Thanks for another year of love & support - you are all wonderful. I hope 2017 is fantastic for you all. 

Love always, E xxx

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