After months of seemingly endless work and sleep deprivation, taking a few weeks off to spend the holidays with those whom I love the most was a wonderful gift. I got to spend quality time with my family in Washington State, throw a little New Year's Eve fete for my friends, and enjoy the loveliest of dates in the midst of a crazy New York winter. It was the perfect pause between an extremely eventful 2013 and a 2014 brimming with challenge and promise.

So much happened in 2013 that it's almost inconceivable that it was just one year—from fabulous travels through Asia and Europe to life twists and turns that may yet propel me in unforeseen directions. In many ways, 2013 took me completely by surprise, leaving me in a difficult but amazing place I had not pictured in any way when the year began. But the year that was makes me absolutely hopeful for the year to come. 2013 showed me that life can still surprise us in the most unexpected and wonderful ways, and it gives me a thrill to think about what 2014 could possibly bring.

I hope the new year has treated you all well so far, and I sincerely hope 2014 brings you a delightful dose of the unexpected!