2017 Highlights

We are only a stone's throw away from 2018, and I'm finally writing again to mark the end of my journey in 2017. In short, it has been surprisingly memorable, and full of self-discovery. 

One of the most important thing that happened this year was probably my decision to lead a plant-based life: being a vegetarian. After holding things back for years and years, I finally made a switch, and I can safely say it is the best decision I've ever made in my life. Not contributing to futile animal cruelty and mass-murder is very liberating, both for my mental and physical health. Looking back, I don't understand why it took me 26 years to commit, and I wish I had done so earlier in life. But hey, it is never too late to start. Though I admit I still have a lot to learn, I am pretty pleased with my diet so far. Leading a healthy plant-based life is always a work in progress. :)

Another remarkable thing worth noting is my adventure in Japan. Up until two years ago, Japan seemed like a distant dream. Being able to actually set foot there was a huge thing for me, and I'll be forever grateful for the opportunity. I can't wait to go back and meet more Gudetama. I need more Gudetama in my life. 

There is also this once-in-a-lifetime moment when I met my teenage dream, Joe Jonas. I went to my very first concert, and finally saw Joe singing so close on stage. A chance encounter (or more like a chase encounter) in the airport and a blurry photo are just the token of memory that I will eternally treasure.  

2017 is also a celebration of life for me and many of my friends. I watched my best friend tying the knot, and another one welcoming a new life in her family; seeing them entering a new phase of adulthood feels surreal. We are growing old. We are no longer teenagers in high school, young, carefree and reckless. I am still the same child inside, though - sometimes irresponsible, especially when dealing with money. I've lost count of how many silly purchases I've made throughout the year. I probably could've been a billionaire by now if I hadn't lavishly thrown my money in the air. Nonetheless, I have no regrets. I still face life head on, and I enjoy every single second of it.

Unlike the previous years, I have actually written down some resolutions for next year. In 2018, I want to enrich my life with more knowledge and skills; I want to see more of the world; I want to do more for the animals; I want to be wiser and less insecure. Ultimately, I want to be a better version of me. 

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 2018!

ps: next year is the year of the dog, and I can foresee many brands releasing dog-related items that I will want to snatch. I guess I'll still be broke next year. *sigh