The Best Year (Yet): 2015

What is the best possible realization about approaching the end of a spectacular year?

Knowing that the next one is going to be even better.

I stringed together two incredible years in 2014 and 2015. A year ago at this time I had no idea how I would top 2014. But it soon became very evident when I knew in my heart that it was time to ask the best girl in the world to marry me. When she said yes it cemented 2015 as the best year in my life.

However, as I mentioned above, 2016 will surpass these past joyous 12 months when I marry Sidney in June.

Besides the obvious reason, 2015 was great in other ways too. I spent the full year in Myrtle Beach, learning more and more about this beautiful part of the country and the culture that comes with it. I grew more in my position at Coastal Carolina University where our social media program prospered. During the year, #CCUSocialMedia grew across the board, involved our student body like never before, and garnered national attention and honors. I got to be part of a few key milestones at our institution as we joined the Sun Belt Conference, installed teal turf, and eclipsed the 10,000 student enrollment mark.

Outside of work I grew much closer to my new family. I was welcomed so warmly by Sidney’s loved ones. I spent holidays with them, ate regular meals with them, celebrated birthdays with them, and accompanied them on a fun trip to Atlanta. With that said, I would say I grew closer to my own family as well. My mom and dad made a trip to see me in March. My brother made the cross country trek to see me in December. I went back to Spokane for two fabulous and memorable vacations in June and September. Trust me, when you don’t get to see your family as regularly as you once used to, you truly start to value them even more and make the most out of the time you do have with them.

If pressed to identify a few highlights from 2015 I would include the following: Talking to various groups from middle school students to our Board of Trustees about social media. Attending the 2015 NCAA Tournament with the CCU men’s basketball team in Omaha, Nebraska. Visiting new places such as Savannah, Charlotte, and Columbia. Returning to Spokane to volunteer at Hoopfest after a year hiatus. Traveling to Walla Walla, Washington, where I got to introduce Sidney to my extended family. Watching my niece grow in-person through six month intervals and on a daily basis through group messaging and Skype calls. Becoming more involved in my church (St. Andrew Parish).

I can’t thank everyone enough for contributing to such a great year for me. I am extremely lucky and blessed. I am sad to see 2015 go but so excited for 2016. I wish you all a fabulous year. Don’t Blink.

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