Year In Review - 2017 | Dallas Blogger

The year started out hopeful. I started a new job, I had big plans to travel and take my blog to new places and grow even more than I had the previous year. And while I did all of those things, I struggled with grief and sadness for much of the latter half of the year and had a hard time pulling myself out of it to really revel in all that we had accomplished. My paternal grandfather, who I adored, passed away in August and a month later, my maternal grandmother, who I also loved dearly, passed away. My world was changing and the things I found comfort and peace in were not on this Earth anymore.

There are moments when I’m driving to work or when I’m sitting at home trying to write a blog post that I just cry. I cry for the overwhelming memories that constantly flow, for my grandmother who lost her soulmate and husband of nearly 60 years, for my mother who lost her mother, for my dad who lost his dad, and for all of the good times that consume me with gratitude.

There were so many things that happened this year that made me realize how precious life is and how important family is.

In March, my brother-in-law, while on his birthday trip in New York, was diagnosed with a stage 4 malignant tumor on his spine that is inoperable. He is now paralyzed from the waist down and in a wheelchair. Joe is a former football player for Purdue and has the most amazing spirit. It’s amazing (and scary) how life can change in an instant. We trust and believe that God is still in the miracle business and pray every day, multiple times a day, for his complete healing.

What a year. I don’t share this with you because I’m looking for sympathy for myself or my family, but I wanted to offer perspective on my mindset as we enter into a new year. I also wanted to share an honest view of my life these days, beyond the perfect Instagram posts.

2017 was an incredible year professionally. In fact, it was our best year yet here at stephtaylorjackson.com. However, personally, it was my most challenging. For every high, there was a low. It humbled me and is making me stronger.

And now with the new year upon us, I must say I am hopeful for an even greater 2018. I have huge goals for the new year and I am so excited to take the blog to new heights and share more of me with you. Thank you so much for following along with me and for all of your support this year!

Below are a few of my favorite fashion moments from 2017 and your favorite posts!