Year in Review – 2023 Highlights

Hey, Trip Siders! I love this time of year. One of my favorite things to do is sit and reflect on the past year, and start to plan the next one. This year I’m overwhelmed with gratitude and excitement for the adventures that unfolded in 2023. It’s been a whirlwind of exploration, personal growth, and finding joy in common every day little moments and things.

I’m so excited to share my highlights and the breathtaking destinations, personal milestones, and how the power of positivity can be transformative. 💕

Table of Contents

Embracing the wanderlust

My wanderlust took me into overdrive this year and to the most incredible places! Each one leaving a unique mark on my soul. From the rugged beauty of the Oregon coast to the bustling streets of Dublin, the stunning and enchanting Scottish highlands to the historical charm of York, and the colorful cityscapes of Lisbon and Porto—my journey was a patchwork of cultures, landscapes, and unforgettable moments.

But the adventure didn’t stop there. I wandered through the bike filled streets of Amsterdam, marveled at the medieval french influence of Brussels and Bruges, ate a lot of chocolate and soaked in the history of Cologne, and danced through the festive Christmas markets of Munich, Salzburg, and Vienna. Every destination was an amazing chapter in my solo travel story. I stepped out of my comfort zone a lot but it was worth it just to immerse myself in the world outside of my Seattle life.

Becoming an Auntie and celebrating family love

Other than the globetrotting, 2023 brought so many personal joys. Oh gosh, guys. 💕 I became an aunt! Can you believe it?! I’m so excited to witness the world through his bright little eyes.

My sister also got married this year! The wedding was so wonderful and the perfect celebration for them. I was excited to celebrate my sister but, selfishly, also to see the majority of my external family too. The wedding brought together almost everyone I love. There was laughter, tears, and so many unforgettable memories.

Making tough choices and finding happiness

This year was not just about the external journey; it was also a profound inner exploration. I faced tough decisions, reevaluating relationships, and making choices that aligned with my evolving self. It wasn’t easy but necessary for my growth and well-being. I love that I’m not the same woman I was last year or even 5 years ago.

One of those decisions was quitting my job of 7 years and making the huge jump to travel (until I figure out what I want to do next). I don’t regret it. In fact, I’m proud I was able to set myself up for success in order to do it financially independent.

I also think I stumbled upon the key to happiness—choosing positivity and finding joy in common everyday moments and things. Like, savoring your first sip of tea in the morning or a moment of peace and quiet just before bed. It’s about gratitude and grace.

Viewing On the Trip Side as an adventure journal

Finally, my blog! Which I’ve decided to make my full-time job until I’m ready to get a new one. It’s been my travel companion over the past three months.

Thank you, Trip Siders, for being a part of this incredible journey. Your messages, comments, and shared experiences have reminded me that dreams are meant to be exchanged. I’m excited about what I get to write next – unknown destinations, chapters, and the connections yet to be made.

Cheers to 2023! A year of very bold decisions, family love, and choosing happiness.

Happy Adventures, darlings.