Its December 31st, and therefore the final day of 2016. The transition from one year to the next always seems strange to me, and leaves me with mixed feelings of sadness and excitement. I’m not sure where the sad element comes from – even if a year is an amazing one, I still find that I have this feeling. I guess it’s the feeling of change, and the fact that every year time seems more fleeting. These feelings are far outweighed by the excitement for the year ahead, especially this year. This evening is going to be a quiet one, but this in no way reflects how this year went… It was dynamic in every possible way.

2016 has been one of the most incredible years of my life. Huge changes happened in both my life and in myself. This time last year Adam was in England with me, and this year I am living in Canada with him. In February this year, I left behind the world I was used to and took a leap of faith into a world unknown. A new Country, a new job, a new home and new relationships. Sometimes it still feels unbelievable that the Shadow of myself I was back then, has managed to build something this incredible. There was a time in my life when I forgot what it was like to really smile, or to laugh, or even see a future. Now, I feel like I am a different person. My confidence has grown, my purpose has been somewhat revealed and I have discovered what it feels like to not question myself a million times everyday. These things weren’t easy to come by at all. It took hard work and soul searching, long talks and tears, to get to this point. The people in my life have been instrumental in every step of my 2016 journey, so here’s a little ode to them.

Adam – I wish I could find enough words, and enough positive adjectives, to do justice to the person you are and what you mean in my life. 2016 has been so huge for us. I wouldn’t have been able to do any of the things I/we have done this year without you. When my world was small and dark, you were the light I followed, the hand that pulled me up, the smile I lived for. You believed in me and us when I saw nothing good in myself, and the thought of us seemed impossible. You encouraged and believed with unwavering strength and it restored my faith in the fact that if you believe enough, anything can happen. I will never forget getting off the plane, and falling into your arms knowing that I was here to stay. I don’t know how we managed to find each other in the midst of the chaos of life, but we did. My heart is full because of you, and even though this journey has had it’s fair share of bumps in the road, I wouldn’t change a thing. I love you with every piece of me. I know 2017 has so much in store for us.

Cathy & Gary – You are the two most generous, thoughtful and caring individuals I have ever known. You have raised two confident, kind and wonderful sons and you epitomise everything I hope to be as a parent and have in a marriage. Your love and dedication never wavers, and I have never once questioned your belief and commitment to this family. You have taken me into your lives with open arms and you have no idea how amazing it is to have you as the parents I always dreamed of, and to be the daughter you never had. I want more than anything to make you proud, and do everything I can to be the best partner for your son that I can be. There is not a day that goes by that I am not thankful for everything you have done and continue to do everyday for all of us. I love you.

Michele – 2016 has allowed me to build a relationship with you that I dreamed of as a child. I remember sitting in my room and wondering about who you were and what you were doing, and now I have the gift of knowing. We are so alike that it’s crazy, and it feels now that the years lost don’t matter as much because I feel as though I have always known you. Thankyou for accepting us into your lives and loving us. You are such a role model to me and I look up to you so much. Your strength, creativity and beauty shines in everything you do. You are kind, funny, and an amazing Mother and Wife. I’m so lucky to have you, Steve and your beautiful babies in my life. I love you always big sis.

Chantal – I spent years of my early life wondering where your life had taken you, replaying everything my Mum told me about you in my mind. I always kept both you and Michele in my heart, knowing that one day we would find each other again. You are so strong, yet gentle, kind and loving. You put your whole heart into everything and it is so inspirational. You’ve fought so many tough battles and I am so inspired by you and proud of you in every single way. You are a dedicated Mother, a caring Wife and an amazing sister. You are funny, beautiful and always there. You, Shane and your incredible Children make my life brighter every day. I love you forever biggest sis.

Sarah – Your strength and humour is something we should all take note of. You see the best in every person and situation in life, and this is an incredibly rare trait. You never judge, and you always remember those who mean the most to you. You and I can argue about anything, but we are always there for one another. You have conquered so much in your young life and achieved so much. I am so proud of you for the person you have become. Your spirit is bright and your laugh can fill a room. Nobody can be sad around you for long. I’m so glad you are my sister and I know that Mum would be so proud of who you have become. Nobody will ever know us like we know each other, and that means so much. I love you.

My British family & friends – One of the hardest things this year has been being without you. When people ask me what I miss about England my first thought is always of you. However, the miles between us have made no difference to your love, care, and thoughtfulness. I love you all as much now as ever and I am so proud of every single one of you. I couldn’t ask for better friends & family. Thankyou for remembering me always, and for always being there. You are all incredible human beings and I adore you.

The new people/friends I have met this year – My biggest worry moving out here was that I wouldn’t meet any new people or be able to make friends. How wrong I was! Every person I have met and become friends with has been so amazing. I am so thankful for every opportunity and road that led me to you. Be it through blogging, the dog park, or just randomly – I’m so glad I have been able to have you in my life this year. It’s made Canada my home.

And finally, a note to myself – I am proud of you for conquering so much this year. For facing your fears and embracing the kindest parts of yourself in order to give back and be a better person. I am proud of you every time you laugh, and every time you achieve something, big or small. I’m glad you opened your heart and mind this year and made way for new opportunities and a new life. You are stronger than you think. Give your all to 2017 and chase every dream.

There is far more I could add and write about this year and the people I have around me, but I think what I have written sums it up.

This year has been a whirlwind, but I wouldn’t change a second.

I hope every one of you has a happy, healthy, successful 2017.

Wave goodbye to 2016, take the lessons learned and memories created into 2017 and be the best person you can be. Spread love & kindness.

Until next time,

Estelle x

* This beautiful image was taken by the incredible McLachlan Studios. Check out their facebook or instagram @mclachlandstudios . I will be sharing the rest of this shoot soon so stay tuned! xox