Most people who read this blog know that I don't normally make New Year's resolutions at New Year's, I make mine on my birthday, which is my way to reflect on the year that's been, and the year that is to come (see here for the most recent installment). However, even though that was only 3 months or so ago, much has happened since which means with a few days to New Year's my thoughts are turning towards looking back, and forwards into 2009.

Since my birthday in September I've traveled to Texas which was a great experience (especially since it meant hanging out with my good friends mr and mrs M), driving around in a convertible, visiting museums, bookshops and more bookshops, and eating wonderful food.

After that I changed jobs in the middle of November, which I mentioned on here a little while ago. Mum asked me over Christmas what is it that I do, and the best answer I have is 'think, read, write and talk about that, with a focus on brands'. Officially I'm a brand strategist or brand consultant, at least that's what the new business card says. So far, so good. I love the job, and the company and am excited every day I go into work. And as far as I'm concerned, jobs don't get better than that: being excited going into work every day.

Another first for me this year: I traveled to India! A good friend from b-school got married and I was lucky enough to be able to attend. And it was amazing. Absolutely wonderful. No adjectives I can use can really describe it, even though I'm scrambling to find the right ones. The hospitality of the groom's family, the warmth with which they adopted me into their family for the week was enough to make me cry on the way back to LON, and the wedding was something straight out of 1,001 nights. And I wore a sari for the first time, which was so comfortable that I'm now looking for excuses to wear it more often.

And lastly, but definitely not the least important, there's been some changes in my personal life which mean I walk around with an almost perma-smile on my face. Sorry to be so cryptic about this one, but I'm sticking with my self-imposed rule of not involving others in much detail unless they specifically ask/beg/pay.

Looking back, 2008 has been quite the year. The first full calendar year of being in the working world again after two years of b-school. The first time that I've been able to travel a bit again. The first job-change post b-school. The first ever time I even considered calling myself a designer. New friends, new experiences, new loves and addictions. But also a year of constants: friends and family, the city I love and live in.

I have no idea what 2009 will bring. No doubt it'll be an interesting year on a macro-political-economical level, which I'm looking forward to. Lots of change. I hope for the better, because this world could do with a bit of positive change. And for me? Who knows. I couldn't have predicted a year ago what would happen in 2008 and it's turned out to be an amazing year. So here's to 2009. May all your hopes and dreams come true.