I’m writing this from the United Club Lounge at Heathrow, savoring a complimentary coffee and breakfast (thanks to my one-time pass), and reflecting on the whirlwind that has been the past year. It’s hard to believe that an entire year has passed since I took a leap of faith and moved to London. This year has been filled with lessons, new friendships, and immense personal growth – transforming my independence into a journey of strength and love. As I sit here, I’m overwhelmed with emotions, but the one that resonates most deeply is gratitude.

Gratitude has always been a conscious practice for me. I regularly remind myself of the privileged life I lead and how fortunate I am to live it the way I do. But last December, while stranded in Iceland for 24 hours, trying to surprise my family, I truly felt the transformative power of gratitude. I remember gazing out at the icy landscape when, suddenly, an overwhelming wave of emotion washed over me, and tears streamed down my face. It was a moment of intense realization – how grateful I was to be who I am and to return to a family that shapes and defines me.

Since that experience, I’ve felt that same wave of gratitude wash over me countless times. Whether I’m riding atop a double-decker bus, lost in the romance of my own life, laughing with my friends until I cry, or taking my daily walks through a city I’ve fallen completely in love with, gratitude is my grounding force. Even on those long, gloomy UK winter days, when the sun seems to hide for weeks, it’s gratitude that keeps me centered.

It’s funny how often British and European people ask why I would ever leave the States – especially Colorado – for the UK. They point out the “shite” weather, the mediocre food, and the outrageous cost of living. And while there’s some truth to all of that, and London can be an incredibly lonely city, it’s also the city that has shaped me and the people who have become my support system that make it feel far less lonely.

The friendships I’ve formed here have brought out such beautiful sides of me, and for that, I am grateful. My London friends are some of the funniest, most intelligent, and genuinely kind-hearted people I’ve ever met. Each of them carries themselves with a confidence and pure energy that’s incredibly contagious. There’s an unspoken understanding among us to be exactly who we are, without judgement, sharing stories and supporting each other in ways that words can’t capture. If it’s true that laughter adds years to your life, then this past year with these friends has surely added at least a decade to mine.

Whether it’s stumbling into random barbershops at 7 AM after a night out, shouting “HAPPY ST. PADDY’S DAY!” to strangers on the street, playing endless rounds of card games, or enjoying music in the city’s hidden parks, these memories are unforgettable. They’re the stories I’ll cherish and share for years to come. These friends have stood by me through some of the toughest moments this year, helping me bounce back faster than I could have on my own. Thank you for always laughing at my jokes and indulging my not-so-rational thoughts.

Living in London and being surrounded by such special people has pushed me to evolve in ways I never imagined. My sense of independence has flourished, and my critical thinking and problem-solving skills have become my anchor. This newfound energy within me has encouraged me to tune into who I am and who I want to become more than ever before. In just the last six months, I’ve taught myself how to DJ, taken up running, and successfully completed an intense master’s course. I truly believe that I can be whoever I want and achieve anything I set my mind to, as long as I take the necessary steps to make it happen. While the next chapter of my life remains a bit uncertain, I know it’s going to be a good one, and that my journey has only just begun.

These truths, I believe, are universal for anyone who sets their mind to achieve what they desire. Life often throws unexpected challenges our way, making us question why things happen as they do. It can feel isolating and frustrating. But this year has taught me that what truly matters is how we react to these situations and navigate the unexpected. Our lives are our own stories, filled with wild plot twists, ups, and downs. Characters come and go – some stay with us for life, while others, whom we thought would, eventually fade away. Yet, through it all, the one constant is you, the main character.

Bella’s Blogs has been one of my greatest companions over the past few years, accompanying me on the many journeys I’ve embarked upon. It’s my creative space – a place to share my adventures and reflect on life as I see and experience it. Whenever I sit down to write these entries, I hope they resonate with others, serving as a reminder to love who you are and to embrace each relationship in your life as an opportunity to discover and channel the parts of yourself you wish to nurture.

With a heart full of gratitude and a spirit ready for new adventures, I step away from London, carrying with me the memories, lessons, and laughter that have defined this past year. Returning home for a few months will be a lifestyle change – one that will likely present challenges I haven’t yet encountered. I’ve grown accustomed to the rhythm of public transportation, embraced healthier foods and habits, and enjoyed exploring the city’s countless treasures with friends. Yet, I’m also looking forward to being grounded among family and old friends who have seen me through past phases of life.

London has given me so much – new friends, new skills, and a renewed sense of self. As I look forward to celebrating my graduation in January and hopefully starting my career, I do so with the belief that the journey ahead will be just as rewarding as the one behind.

To those reading, embrace your role as the main character in your life, protect your peace, and always dance like nobody’s watching. The world is full of possibilities – be open to them, and you might be surprised where they lead.

With all my love,

Bella x