22

 This is my last afternoon as a 21 year old.

I feel like it was just yesterday I was at the Gansevoort holding two shots of tequila and remembering how long I had been pretending to be of age to legally get into a bar. This past year has been a test of my strength and patience. I've spent the majority of it trying to figure out who I am and how I can better myself. I think I have attempted to do that every year before that but I think this is the first year I have had any real success in doing so. 

I know this isn't a time to relax. Next week, everything that I have become accustomed to in my life is going to change. My roommates, who have become brothers to me, are moving to different parts of the country and one will be taking Gatsby with them. Losing my best guy friends and my dog, who has become my therapy solution, is devastating. Shortly after that, Brian and I will be moving into our very own apartment with our very own dog, Charlie. After that, I will be going back to school again. 

I'm grateful to start this new year of my life and this new chapter but it's hard to look back on the year you've just had and anticipate the next. As much as I'd like to pause time and keep everything exactly how it is, I know it's time to move forward. I'd like to think I've grown up a lot and I will learn from my mistakes. I hope this next year is another growing and inspiring year that will help shape me into the adult that I'm meant to be, even if I'm not quite sure who that will be yet. 

I'm so in love with everyone who has been here for me this year and has made it one to remember. I'm thankful for my pups, my family, my incredible friends and my stellar boyfriend for all being there when I've needed you. 

Here is to my 22 year.