It’s hard not to do some mental stock-taking as the year winds up. I think the essence of Mamamia, for me, this year has been the Best and Worst posts which have really encouraged me to stop and reflect on my life each week and to be inspired and humbled by the extraordinarily honest glimpses into the lives of MM readers who have chosen to share their best and worsts.

So I wanted to ask you to think back on your WHOLE year and come up with your personal highlight and lowlight. It might be something that happened to you or something you read about, something huge or something seemingly insignificant – but meaningful to you. You might have more than one of each. That’s OK. We’re not terribly strict around here….

BEST: Watching my kids grow up and form relationships with each other. Watching their little personalities bloom and change and assert themselves. Releasing my book and being overwhelmed by the positive response from so many people who laughed and cried along with me. Watching this website take off and being grateful for the chance to work from home and work with my husband (yes, I’m used to it now). Enjoying writing more than I ever have. The laughs and love I draw from my husband and girlfriends.

WORST: Feeling overwhelmed and exasperated by stress at times. Letting my priorities become pretty out of whack. Watching some close girlfriends go through some very difficult things and not being able to wave a magic wand. Struggling with anxiety at times.