Reflecting on 2011 – Here’s to a Fabulous 2012 that Tops 2011!

On the eve of the last day of 2011, I’m reflecting on the top 20 amazing memories and challenges of the year.

1. Filmed in England and California and starred in House Hunters International with David Woodhouse
2. Said farewell to colleagues made redundant at the Design Council and said hello to new colleagues with the merger of CABE
3. Delivered the Design Out Crime programme with a great team and started a new job at the Design Council setting up the Programme Management Office and business planning with a new fab team
4. Traveled to California for a much needed holiday during the Royal Wedding
5. Traveled to Paris with Rosy to celebrate her birthday and experience the amazing Tarkan in concert
6. Rode on the back of David’s scooter through the historic London riots
7. Taught a Taste of Turkey dance course and a variety of other belly dance classes
8. Rehearsed countless hours with Arabian Dance Theatre and performed in 3 outstanding theatre shows – Under the Sun – in London and Leeds
9. Supported David at two of his car events – Cholmondeley Pageant of Power and Donington Vintage Sports Car Club meeting
10. Moved out of our flat in Victoria with an unexpected end to our lease
11. Moved in and out of hotels for 3 months living mostly in low-budget Tune Hotel
12. Got engaged to David Woodhouse during a very romantic dinner at the Hilton on Park Lane
13. Planned our wedding activities in 3 months for our immediate family visiting from the US and Worcestershire
14. Remembered my grandmother and grandfather 1 year after their passing
15. Hosted 6 Hafla on the Hill showcases raising over £1,100
16. Performed with Rosy 15 times as Dunya BellyDance including winning 3rd place at the Fantasia group competition
17. Completed 90% of our renovations at Long Barn and finally have the open barn enclosed for David’s cars
18. Participated on a village plan outreach committee in Berwick St James
19. Exchanged contracts on our new house in Battersea London
20. Got married to the love of my life David Woodhouse in London with our immediate family – Pat, Mark, Rose, Nicole, Larry, Sevda, Keith, Nicole and Semrin!

Happy New Year! Here’s to a fabulous 2012 that tops 2011!