If I learned anything in 2013 it’s that I live an incredibly charmed life. In my life I’ve been blessed to hold really cool jobs, meet amazing people, and experience things many people will never get to experience. 2013 was full of charm, but also sadness, loss, heartache, and uncertainty. Like most years, there was plenty of good and bad in my life, but 2013 was also unique and special, in that I was faced with so many new adventures that left a lasting impression. Not wanting to forget anything, I’m outlining the highlights of my year here.

• A simple announcement from my uncle that he was traveling to Israel in February re-ignited a spark I had to pursue my Birthright trip (a free trip to Israel for Jews ages 18-26). That launched me into full-on planning mode, scoping out deadlines, applications, and trip planning.
• I found out I have minor scoliosis. Oh, so that’s why I get back pain.
• I lost my job at Wired just one week before the deadline to decide to take my Birthright trip or cancel it.
• Not letting unemployment get me down, I spent the time freelancing, exploring parts of San Francisco I hadn’t seen, hiking, and planning my trip.
• I went to Israel!!! It was indescribably amazing. I met awesome people, who are now friends I see as often as I can. My eyes were opened to the conflicts in the Middle East, and I was able to see how close together countries in the region are to each other. The trip was everything that others had told me it would be, and I am so glad I went.
• I celebrated my 25th birthday at an A’s game with friends and my loving partner.
• I landed a fantastic job at CNET, on the reviews team, doing the work I’ve always wanted to do.
• After years and years of living in the city, I finally went to the Stern Grove Festival and got to sit in the VIP area, thanks to a friend who works for the Parks department. We brought tons of food, drank booze, and enjoyed two wonderful shows.
• Also after many years in the city, I finally went to Jewish Heritage Night at AT&T Park and saw Matisyahu perform.
• In July, I lost a very special person, my aunt Yvonne. She battled cancer for a few years and is deeply missed.
• Woke up at 4am to watch the Perseid meteor shower. That was spectacular.
• I got to cover a lot of new gadget releases, including the iPhone 5S. Though the work is hectic, it’s really fun to get the first look at a new gadget.
• I saw the Mythbusters stage show. After years of watching Jamie and Adam on TV, it was a treat to see them in person.
• Put on a Star Trek uniform and ran through the streets of San Francisco for my company’s Amazing Race competition. Got a lot of weird looks, a few catcalls, and had a lot of fun.
• Finally converted the tapes my parents shot when I was a baby into a DVD and digital files. It’s great to see the family I have lost on tape, to hear their voices, and see their mannerisms.

That list doesn’t include the amazing new friends I’ve made, beautiful sunny days spent on the beach, hikes with friends, delicious dinners, new experiences with my partner, and the countless number of happy and sad times I’ve had this year. 2013 was awesome, and I can’t wait for next year.