January 1, 2012, was for sure the lowest day of my year. Because of a major life change, I closed my old blog and started this one. With a few notable exceptions, things have looked up ever since. Here’s the year in review.

In mid January, I flew to Australia to celebrate my Dad’s 80th, along with every one of his children, grand children, and great grand children. Special? Yep.

When I got back, I moved into my Topanga treehouse. I have never loved a home more. I’d been saying for 15 years that I should live in Topanga; I don’t know what took me so long!

In March I cut my hair really short (as women do, after breakups). I also spent the entire month back in the conjugal home, caring for L, while her dad was working out of town. It was weird to go back so soon after leaving. A very odd month, it was. It culminated with an awesome adventure with L. in Lake Tahoe.

In April I went to New Orleans for the first time. I met a blog friend. I drank hurricanes. I held a (baby) alligator. I taught at a conference, and liked it.

May was friendship month. I joined Mensa, and met Annette. Louise came to visit. So did David. I joined a bunch of Meetups, and hiked a lot. And spent a night in the ER with L.

I spent a lot of time outdoors in June. I had a pre-melanoma cut out of my back. And I met a guy while giving blood, who asked me out. We had a few dates, and it was nice. Nothing came of it, but it made me realize that I might just be ready for a relationship.

In July I finally visited the Bridge to Nowhere. I met a bunch of Topanga neighbours, and made three dresses. I smiled a lot.

In August I went to both San Antonio and Joshua Tree. Good times, good times.

In September, I met a Malibu man. With a dog. I’m thinking he’s a keeper. And the dog? Well, she’s a keeper too.

In October I spent time in Ojai and Picacho. In between, Elizabeth came to visit. Happy times.

November saw me at my sewing machine, crafting Christmas gifts galore, which I mostly failed to photograph. In between, I enjoyed a lot of Malibu sunsets, and shared many delicious meals. Really, does it get much better than that?

December brought an unscheduled visit DownUnder to bury a kind-souled tragic-eyed brother. My heart aches for him. But the year ended on a sweet note, enjoying fine food and laughter with friends, and exploring the central coast with my guy and his dog (blog post on this subject to follow.)

Without a doubt, I’m ending the year in a much happier place than I started it. My one little word for 2012 was healthy, and by every indication (weight, strength, emotions — ok maybe not financial) I’m healthier now.

Here’s to a great 2013.