Our Year In Photos: The Ups, Downs, & Lessons of 2015
This year has really been a doozy!
It was certainly a full year. Looking back, I can’t believe that all of
this took place in just one year. It wasn’t all good and in fact, some
of this year was really exhausting and stressful, but it just goes to
show the many opportunities a single year can hold. You just never know
what’s around the corner, so never ever give up!
It was certainly a full year. Looking back, I can’t believe that all of
this took place in just one year. It wasn’t all good and in fact, some
of this year was really exhausting and stressful, but it just goes to
show the many opportunities a single year can hold. You just never know
what’s around the corner, so never ever give up!
As
a twenty something, life is always changing and some of it happens so
quickly. One day things look uncertain, while the next everything begins
to fall into place. That’s just life! We live and we learn. So, here’s a
little glimpse into my 2015; the ups, downs, and lessons.
JANUARY
Paisley Turned 3
Can you believe Paisley is almost 4? It feels like she was a tiny puppy not that long ago! Boy, time flies.
Learned Photography
In December, I took the plunge and bought my first DSLR camera so I spent the year learning photography. I learned the basics in the beginning of the year and then moved onto learning the manual settings over the summer. I’ve always been one to ‘figure things out,’ so I just did my own thing instead of taking a class. It’s been fun to take on a new hobby!
LESSON: OLD DOGS CAN LEARN NEW TRICKS
It’s never too late to learn a new skill. Have you ever thought ‘wow, it would be so cool to know how to do that?’ Well, do it! Photography was always something that interested me but I just never really had the time to do it. I wanted to take a course as an elective in college, but it just didn’t work out with my schedule. I felt like it was a skill I needed to learn to better my blog but it has really evolved into another hobby! It’s fun to learn new things and I feel like it makes people more interesting.
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FEBRUARY
I Turned 27
Eep! I learned about what it’s like to be in your late twenties. Age 25 and even age 26 were considered my mid-twenties and it felt like I still had some time to figure this life out. This year, however, really pushed me over the edge with feelings of ‘I’m running out of time,’ ‘what have I done thus far,’ and ‘I’m almost 30.’
LESSON: IT’S NOT A MARATHON
Through having all of these doubts about getting older and where I am in life compared to where I think I should be, I’ve learned that life isn’t a marathon. It sounds like something people might just say to make their loved ones feel better, but it’s actually 100% the truth. The secret to success is that consistent baby steps are more effective than running a marathon. Things just don’t happen overnight! Maybe all of these steps I’m taking will lead me to where I want to be.
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APRIL
Started A YouTube Channel
After reading articles and watching video after video, I finally started a YouTube channel! I’m a perfectionist and although my videos aren’t perfect, I wanted to make sure they were something I could be proud of before I launched the channel. Studying the craft first is a very Type A thing to do!
Attended A Lucky Magazine Event
I wasn’t feeling well the day of this event, but I just had to go because it was a Topshop shopping event! Topshop is one of my favorite brands, so I really didn’t want to miss it. I’m glad I went because it ended up being my first YouTube video topic!
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MAY
Lost My Job
Something I never thought would happen actually happened in May- I lost my job. New management came in, restructured, and decided my position wasn’t necessary for their goals. I was pretty unhappy with the changes and was trying to get out of there anyway, so it was really a blessing in disguise. It still wasn’t easy but it did open up my time to learn some new things that I had been wanting to learn, as you’ll see in my next ‘moment.’
LESSON: SOME THINGS ARE JUST MEANT TO BE
If you don’t make it happen, the universe will. This is what I learned from this job situation. I tend to follow my intuition and as a Pisces, I’m supposed to be pretty in tune with that. Something kept telling me that it was time to move on and as much as I tried to make it happen, life was crazy and there just wasn’t a lot of time to dedicate to it. When I left there, I just felt a weight lift off of my shoulders and I had a feeling that it was supposed to be this way. I felt like this was the universe’s way of nudging me back onto the right path!
Learned Graphic Design
Yes! I had been wanting to learn these Adobe Creative Suite programs for a long time and I was really beginning to feel like not knowing them was holding me back. The programs seemed pretty complicated and I had heard that there was no way you could learn it without taking a class. I didn’t have the money but hey, I’m pretty savvy and I did have the time on my hands so I went for it! I learned Adobe Illustrator in no time and it felt great to fulfill this goal that I really felt I could benefit from both personally and professionally. Now all of my blog logos are completely my own!
LESSON: YOU CAN LEARN ANYTHING ON YOUR OWN IN THIS MODERN DAY
The biggest lesson I have learned through this experience and over the years is that you can learn anything you want to in this modern day. Forget classes; just do it! Seriously, the sky is the limit! If you can’t figure it out on your own, turn to YouTube. It’s absolutely amazing that there is really a tutorial for anything. And if you’re currently a student, I don’t mean to run out of those classroom doors. What I mean is that even if you’re done with school or they aren’t teaching what you want to learn in school, you can learn anything.
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JUNE
Attended A Blogger Meet-Up
I love these ladies! Every few months, our little ‘Tri-State Blogger’ group meets up in NYC for lunch. It started with just a few of us that met at Lucky FABB back in 2012 and now it seems to grow each and every time! It’s fun to get to know other bloggers in real life and just know that someone else out there truly gets the craziness of this blogging journey.
Had The Best Summer Ever.. Beach Day, ‘err day
Because I was stressed over the job situation and had more time on my hands, I spent a lot of time at the beach! I live about 10 minutes from a nice beach on the bay and 20 minutes from the beach on the ocean, so it’s so easy to just hang out there for a few hours. I really enjoyed my time at the beach this year! It’s nice to call this summer ‘the best ever’ because there were so many summers over the past few years where I just worked and didn’t get outside as much as I should have.
Baby Lily Was Born
My good friends from high school had a baby! She’s the first of our group to have a little one, so it was extra special for all of us. Lily is a beautiful, happy, and fashionable baby!
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JULY
Attended The Taylor Swift ‘1989’ Concert
Over the past few years, I have become quite the Taylor Swift fan. Who couldn’t love someone that is just so genuinely nice? Her personality really just makes me root for her. She tours every 2 years; I went to her ‘Red’ tour and it was absolutely amazing, so I couldn’t miss the ‘1989’ tour! She is seriously amazing live. Costumes, sets, props, effects; she does it all! This year, she gave out light-up wrist bands that were coordinated with the music. Pretty cool, huh? It felt like we were part of the show!
Moved My Photo Shoots Outside
This month, I decided to take the plunge and move my photo shoots outside! It has really been a fun experience! I feel like it has really made my photos more interesting and I’ve discovered some pretty cool local places that I didn’t even know existed. It’s amazing what happens when you step outside of your box and into the world around you.
Started A New Job
July was overall a great month and it ended on a positive note when I started a fun, new job! After the hotel management change and my fallout in May, I accepted a Social Media Coordinator position with my previous company. It was exciting to be back with my old company that I had been with for years and work alongside some old colleagues, as well. The best part about it was that I got to really put my creative skills to use! I get to manage our social media accounts and plan our evening programming. I hire bands and plan other entertainment like trivia night, paint night, and basically anything fun. I’ve been saying I’m in the Fun Department!
LESSON: THE MAGIC OF LIVING IN THE MOMENT
Living
in the moment can be a little scary but above all else, it can really
be a magical experience. I really pushed myself out of my comfort zone
this year! I found myself just saying ‘yes’ to things and it was
sometimes surprising of where that decision took me. And moments I had
this year- like going to the beach more often and going to the Taylor
Swift concert- encouraged me to just be. Instead of always working towards something, it’s nice to just exist sometimes and it’s amazing how joyous that can be.
in the moment can be a little scary but above all else, it can really
be a magical experience. I really pushed myself out of my comfort zone
this year! I found myself just saying ‘yes’ to things and it was
sometimes surprising of where that decision took me. And moments I had
this year- like going to the beach more often and going to the Taylor
Swift concert- encouraged me to just be. Instead of always working towards something, it’s nice to just exist sometimes and it’s amazing how joyous that can be.
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AUGUST
Found Out Who “A” was
Many people had been waiting 4 years to find out who “A” was on Pretty Little Liars. I only got into the show a year ago, but it was still a much anticipated moment! Was I happy with it? I really didn’t think they would go in the direction they did so while it was unexpected, it really wasn’t what I was hoping it would be. Regardless, they know how to put on a good show! I definitely enjoyed it and can’t wait for the 5 years forward season to start on January 12th.
Many people had been waiting 4 years to find out who “A” was on Pretty Little Liars. I only got into the show a year ago, but it was still a much anticipated moment! Was I happy with it? I really didn’t think they would go in the direction they did so while it was unexpected, it really wasn’t what I was hoping it would be. Regardless, they know how to put on a good show! I definitely enjoyed it and can’t wait for the 5 years forward season to start on January 12th.
Website Renovation
I’m always making minor tweaks and changes to the website, but this was a much bigger renovation. I changed the entire layout and while it was similar to the previous one, this version is a little bit cleaner and has a better functionality! We’ve added fun, new features and great ways to find the content you want. For the complete tour, check out our YouTube video: Tour Our New Layout!
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SEPTEMBER
Fashion Week
This was my first year to really participate with NYFW up close. I live in NJ and so close to NYC, but it’s not so easy scoring those invites! While I can’t say I attended major high-fashion events, I did attend an event that really mattered. I had the pleasure of going to the Wear Your Label runway show! This brand raises awareness about mental illness and encourages those suffering to be proud. The event was really special and I was so glad I got to cover it for my blog because I got to write about something different during fashion week instead of the same shows everyone else was covering.
This was my first year to really participate with NYFW up close. I live in NJ and so close to NYC, but it’s not so easy scoring those invites! While I can’t say I attended major high-fashion events, I did attend an event that really mattered. I had the pleasure of going to the Wear Your Label runway show! This brand raises awareness about mental illness and encourages those suffering to be proud. The event was really special and I was so glad I got to cover it for my blog because I got to write about something different during fashion week instead of the same shows everyone else was covering.
Lucky FABB Canceled, Rakuten Event On!
I was so disappointed when Lucky FABB was canceled. That conference meant so much to me because I met so many great friends and it really opened up a lot of possibilities for me. I was a newbie blogger when I first attended, so it was really a game changer! I figured it must have been canceled for good reason. While Lucky FABB didn’t take place, a Rakuten Marketing Pre-Conference event was still on! I attended that event and it was so fabulous. I met Megan of Fashionista Momma and formed a good relationship with the marketing company. I’ve since collaborated with Rakuten and its partners several times!
LESSON: SOMETIMES DOORS CLOSE JUST TO OPEN NEW ONES
I believe that everything happens for a reason and while one door may close, it usually leads to another door opening. Why is this? I think that we get so focused on one thing and it leads to us failing to notice other opportunities. One door closing could just open our eyes up to what was already there!
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NOVEMBER
Sorority Reunion
This year was my sorority’s 30th Anniversary, so we had a big reunion party! We had never had anything like it before. The Founder and plenty of other sister’s that I’ve never met were going to be there. It sounded fun but the idea of seeing all of those people- some that I’d never met and others that I hadn’t seen in a long time- was a little overwhelming. I attended the event and I’m so glad that I did because I had a blast. I met so many new people and I reconnected with a few friends I had lost touch with! Plus, it turned out that I definitely wasn’t the only person that was a little nervous about it.
LESSON: IT PAYS TO DIVE IN HEAD FIRST
Sometimes you just have to do it! There are a lot of scary things in life but I have learned that the best way to handle it is to dive in head first. It won’t be long before you realize that what you were scared of wasn’t so terrible after all and that you may have missed out on something really great if you didn’t give it a try.
Sometimes you just have to do it! There are a lot of scary things in life but I have learned that the best way to handle it is to dive in head first. It won’t be long before you realize that what you were scared of wasn’t so terrible after all and that you may have missed out on something really great if you didn’t give it a try.
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DECEMBER
Reached an Instagram Goal- 1K!
Growing The Closet by Christie has been a very long journey and as a lot of you know, it’s not an easy task to make something out of nothing. This year my focus was on growth and what would help me achieve that. I threw myself into photography, videography, graphic design, group giveaways, and so much more to improve the blog. We saw some growth everywhere but particularly on Instagram; we hit 1K supporters! I’m so happy that I was able to achieve this goal but it doesn’t stop there. Next, I’m going for 10K so I can have that ‘K’ listed!
Growing The Closet by Christie has been a very long journey and as a lot of you know, it’s not an easy task to make something out of nothing. This year my focus was on growth and what would help me achieve that. I threw myself into photography, videography, graphic design, group giveaways, and so much more to improve the blog. We saw some growth everywhere but particularly on Instagram; we hit 1K supporters! I’m so happy that I was able to achieve this goal but it doesn’t stop there. Next, I’m going for 10K so I can have that ‘K’ listed!
Got Into Politics
This year’s political campaign has been quite interesting! And with the state of the world, I’ve been particularly interested in what these candidates have to say. I’ve really never been the least bit interested in any of this stuff but as I’m getting older, I’m realizing that it is so important and it could determine what kind of future we have. We all should care!
LESSON: YOUR OPINION MATTERS
I highly encourage everyone to get involved, get educated, and get passionate. With politics, we all get one vote for a reason and that’s because everyone’s opinion matters. Every one of us helps shape the world we live in, whether it be directly or indirectly. Your contribution might be to invent something to improve our lives or maybe it’s to raise a child that will contribute to our society positively. Maybe your contribution is to inspire those around you by always smiling or to create a TV show that changes someone’s outlook. It could be anything but the most important part is that you matter. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise!
What were your 2015 highlights?
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Linking up with these fabulous ladies!
The Fashionista Momma // Lizzie In Lace // More Pieces of Me // Claire Justine
Pink Sole // Style Nudge // Still Being Molly // Fizz and Frosting
Bless Her Heart Ya’ll // Mama and More // I do deClaire // Garay Treasures
The Blush Blonde // Cute & Little // Sandy a la Mode
Pink Sole // Style Nudge // Still Being Molly // Fizz and Frosting
Bless Her Heart Ya’ll // Mama and More // I do deClaire // Garay Treasures
The Blush Blonde // Cute & Little // Sandy a la Mode
What a wonderful roundup of your year! Thanks for sharing. I'm sure 2016 will bring more good things your way. I love hearing what you have learned. Have a terrific 2016 Christie! 🙂
http://www.kathrineeldridge.com
Love the recap! You have had such a stylish, fun, and successful year!
Amy Ann
Straight A Style
You have had a fabulous year! Looking forward to 2016!
first time on your blog and im glad I came during this post. got to read a recap of your year. great getting to know you in this post. happy holidays.
xoxo,
geri
http://everydaylivingnyc.blogspot.com/
You have had an amazing year! Such a great recap!
<3 Shannon
Upbeat Soles
What a great way to do a recap! It's such a great idea to think about the lessons that were learned over the past year. Congratulations on all of your success, and here's to hitting that 10k mark on Instagram! Happy New Year!
Shauna
http://www.lipglossandlace.net
I love this post! You had a year full of experience and lessons to learn! I wish you a happy and prosperous ne one!
http://misspippisstyle.blogspot.hu/
Great post! You had an amazing year! Wishing you a happy 2016!! 🙂
Xoxo,
Love from http://www.trangscorner.com {a lifestyle, fashion, beauty, and food blog}
Great 2015 rundown, lady- and I love the lessons learned bits!
-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
a lot of highs for you this year, with just a few lows. can't wait to see what 2016 will bring!
I love this post, it looks like you had a great year!! I wish you the best for 2016!
Adi xx
http://www.fancycorrectitude.com
Wow you had an amazing year definitely with some challenges. Amazing!!! Great Job! Happy New Year!
xx, Elise
http://www.sparkleandslippers.blogspot.com
such a nice photos! wishing you all the best in 2016! 🙂
http://jeansandroses.blogspot.com/
the way you've written this post is wonderful! hope 2016 brings you even more great memories. my highlight this year is definitely starting university 🙂
Sarah
xo
http://absolutelysarahx.blogspot.com
Ups and downs are a part of our lives and yes I've not had a great year either. But here's Wishing you a Happy New Year in Advance!
xoxo – Style.. A Pastiche
Looks like this was an amazing year for you! Hoping 2016 is just as awesome! xx
Audrey Adair | http://www.happilyaudrey.com
looks like you had such a great 2015!!
Have a wonderful New Year!
XO Sahra
Que Sera Sahra
This is such a fun idea! Us bloggers take so many pictures, so it's a cool idea to gather them all up!
~Sara
YAY! Wishing you a happy 2016!!
Eleventh & Sixteenth
OMG! It was like I was reading my year! We are the same age and I agree with you. Success is not a marathon and things don't happen overnight. Sometimes I feel down and depressed when I compare my life to other people. Like, why aren't things happening to me but they happen to other people? I feel like I am getting older but getting nowhere. This may have been my luckiest year so far because I got a promotion and I can finally give myself some rest after 2 years of working really hard. I also managed to finally start my YouTube channel (which I don't really promote as I use it only for hauls because I am too lazy to take pictures). You got yourself a new follower (by email). Hope you continue to make inspirational posts like this one. 🙂
Jenn
The Pink Lemonade Girl
Dresslink
What a great round up of the year! I love this and now I want to do one for myself. Stop by and link up if you get a chance Dear. Oh and I just got my first DSLR camera for Xmas so I'm trying to learn too. It's a lot at once!
OXOX
Dawn Lucy
http://fashionshouldbefun.blogspot.com
I loved reading this roundup of the best posts and your most favorite moments and milestones of 2015. You have had a great year beautiful Christie. Congratulations on all of your achievements and great success of your blog. Here is to a beautiful, healthy and successful 2016! Happy New Year!
Ada. =)
Lovely post! Maybe we could follow each other on GFC? If yes, follow me and I follow back as soon as I see it.
Let me know with a comment on my Blog
http://facetiouslywind.blogspot.com/
Happy New Year!
You had one busy year, but I love how you looked back on everything and made a positive note or learning experience out of it! That's how you grow! Keep up the amazing work dear! And Happy 2016!
Such a great idea for a post!! Such a great time of year for bloggers 🙂 Your pup is adorable x
http://clutchandcarryon.com/to-dubai-captain/