So many memories have been created in these past 365 days; some were unfortunate yet many were incredibly life changing. Overall, this year has been a test of my leadership roles and patience. I have spent many hours day dreaming about what my life is going to look like past my degree, which has equally overwhelmed me as it has excited me! This year I have taken on multiple roles - which I am grateful for! I became a Zumba instructor, began managing a yoga studio, ran out of city outdoor camps, certified myself as a coach for communities, participated in a yoga retreat. and led multiple high school boys on a mountain bike trip.

Looking back at the year, my most rewarding experience is easily the mountain bike expedition I completed in Colorado and Utah this summer! I never imagined myself physically and mentally exerting myself to the extent to which I did. That experience redefined what a challenge means to me and has contributed to my increased level of confidence and strength in myself. Everlasting friendships also grew from that expedition and I could not be more happy that it did. Every person on that trip was influential and pushed me everyday to keep going. This year I learned that struggle brings people together, which I experienced struggling alongside other bikers. I am grateful to share that my friendship has flourished with a gem of lady named Rachel. She is an absolute inspiration and positive influence in my life. It is safe to say that we are now sisters from different parents ahaha. So many other friendships have also flourished and I have felt so much love from so many great people in my life. I fully credit ETOL for this, for EPIC people join this program.

Speaking of love... even though I am not currently in a relationship, I receive an immense amount of love from friends, family, roommates, and co-workers. I have also made the effort to give myself some TLC by watching comedy, taking yoga classes, and probably eating too many yummy treats. I am sure there will be someone who will be romantically interested in me in the future (for I am legendary) but until then, I am going to be doing awesome things with rad people.

My dad recently said to me that " I am living my age and doing things right." I want to remind myself of this as I look ahead into the new year because I often create resolutions to better myself but need to remember all of the great things I am currently doing and celebrate that! Although, I do think that it is important to set goals and challenge myself so these are a few of my top goals for the new year,

1. Learn to handstand (take a workshop and practice every night)

2. Stick to meal prepping (buy less mucho burritos & donairs )

3. Get into bed by 10 pm on school nights

4. Give back to my communities

5. Register for a wilderness 200 hr yoga teacher training

6. Make spending time with my amazing sister a priority!

7. Find new ways to enjoy doing school work

I have to admit, this past semester I was not on my game academically. I typically get assignments done in advance and am usually fully present during class lectures but I hardly achieved both those things this past semester. I love my program and enjoy all of my professors so I am going to put more value into classes next semester for it is my top priority! It is going to be a challenge while I juggle 3 jobs but I will ensure that I take care of myself in the process (that may mean going out less)...man have I been a social butterfly this year!

This year has been wonderful and next year will be also! I will fill 2018 with a lot of nature, positive people, and career shaping opportunities.

I am happy & healthy ending 2017 and I wish that upon all of you <3

Happy New Year & Namaste,

Zoey Fern.