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The last month of the year is approaching and the past months have been a whirlwind of emotions for me. I keep thinking back on this year and everything that has happened. Besides all the heartache I've gone through, the best thing I've achieved this year is I fulfilled my dream of living in Brazil for 3 months. It has completely changed my perspective on life, friendships, love and myself. What are some great things you have achieved this year?

I just got back from Brazil last week. I fell in love with the country (the city of São Paulo), the music, the people, the food. I really love it. It's a culture that I could fully relate to. The people are amazing, so kind. I've built up such a fantastic, full social life there. I definitely plan on moving there if anyhow possible.

I made some goals for the year on New Year's Eve. I am proud to say that I have accomplished some of them! I finally joined the Cat Writers' Association. I entered their communications contest for the first time. I won a MUSE Medallion (highest award) in the Lifestyle category. I was absolutely shocked! I feel quite honored to be among a group of fantastic authors who love and write about cats.

That's so awesome! Are you still in Brazil? What's it like there? I've never even been outside the United States! I would love to visit other countries someday.