It seems that this last year has been filled with craziness. I've noticed as I'm sure several other people have, the number of jokes about how awful 2016 has been. For me, it hasn't been that bad. The thing is, this article isn't about 2016 on the national or international level. This article is a recap of the major things that happened to me personally this year, because even though everything else seems like a big deal, the parts of our personal lives are what shape us as human beings far more than what's covered in the media.

My last living grandparent died in January. I remember calling my Granny to check in with her the day before she passed away. She and I didn't talk long because she had been feeling ill and I wanted to let her rest. The next day, my cousin and aunt got in touch with me while I was at school and told me she had passed away early that morning. I knew it was coming eventually, Granny was in her eighties and she had a heart condition, but it never truly occurred to me that I would lose her so soon.

After that came the first job I ever had. It was a good experience, but it was short-lived. I started in March and left to focus on school in September.

There was also the exciting news of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. I unfortunately have still been unable to read the book/play or see the movie/read the screenplay.

I started writing for The Odyssey in October and realized my love for writing again. This was also when I realized that I am not cut out to major in a science field, so I also changed my major to communications.

I also voted for president on voting day for the first time! I voted in the 2012 election but had to early vote because I was away from home for school. I felt great actually voting on voting day, it felt really special.

Around Thanksgiving, I realized that I was finally making some progress in grieving the loss of my mother. I noticed myself caring more about taking care of myself during the difficult times of year like the anniversary of her death, and I cared less about wallowing in this depressing grief I had grown accustomed to during those times of year.

And finally, in December, two of my closest friends graduated college, and I realized that the happiest and most fun I have is when spending time with my family in Christ. That was the best part of 2016 for me. Growing closer to God was particularly special to me.

So, what am I up to for 2017? Well, I'm definitely going to continue embracing time with God and my family in Christ. I'll also be trying to take better care of myself, both mentally and physically.Oh, and maybe even get all A's in my classes next semester? I'm at least going to try that one. So out with the old, in with the new! Here's to 2017 and all the amazing things it may bring!

Happy New Year!