What I learned in 2018

With another year over it’s time to look back. Time is flying when you have fun, which is so true. Time is also flying the older I get. Which I find even more true. With time rushing by I am therefore not so sure if I can even manage to get a full set of bullet points. But let’s try. It was a good year after all and by reminding myself of the past twelve months I am sure I can come up with at least some tips. Yours, Pollybert

1.) The kitchen is the most dangerous place in my home. I lost a piece of my index finger while slaving away for Christmas dinner. Must make sure to use the food guard while working with the mandolin!

2.) I really have to go to the gym more often. Just supporting them with my membership fee is not the point of subscribing.

3.) Traveling alone without a plan, no matter how long or short, is an instant reminder on how much I enjoyed my three months on the road. There is a certain freedom in this way of traveling which is priceless. Totally loved my trip to Latvia this year!

4.) My best book year since ages! I managed to read 69 books this year. Audio books really helped to boost my numbers.

5.) I still buy too much stuff. Although I have been limiting myself since a while ago already, my apartment has the appearance of a storage facility. I need a clothes swap evening with my girls and should start thinking about a book swap as well.

6.) Sometimes it is necessary to just book a beach trip and relax. As much as I want to go exploring, body and mind do need a hiatus from time to time. I managed to give myself that twice this year which is not enough I find.

7.) Using a hairline coloring spray ages me instantly by 10 years. Suddenly I have sun spots all over my forehead. I should really stick with just dyeing it.

8.) I managed to travel 14 times in the last 12 months with one full month of staying at home. Quite an achievement. I also have an array of different travel partners. From families, to friends, to only myself. Mixing it up makes each trip a unique travel experience.

9.) Family is the most important thing. And to be here for them in difficult times.

10.) I always thought I didn’t care about animals. I guess I was wrong. The Galapagos taught me that sea lions are the cutest. And don’t get me started on the sharks. I do abhor the sandflies though which got me good in Thailand.

11.) Gin Tonic was still my favorite drink of choice in 2018. And my favorite gins come from Scotland and Canada (thanks to my reliable importer!).

12.) Besides family (see #9) friends are the most important thing. They have my back and don’t leave my side especially in strange and weird situations. And this year had a couple of them. So grateful for all of you guys; you know who you are!

13.) Despite opposition stand up for what you believe in! But best do it in a calm and relaxed manner. If that isn’t possible at the exact moment, take your time and do it tomorrow. It still counts and saves a lot of troubles!

14.) Age might be just a number, but it still gets you. Little by little it’s creeping up on you. And it starts with dinner conversations about everybody’s different ailments.

15.) With #14 right in front of me, I need to keep up with my running. This year was good practicewise and I want to take it up a notch. Also love my new running partner!

16.) I will do my utmost to make 2019 my best year ever! I hope you come along for the ride!