This is the time of year you see a thousand stories recapping the past 12 months in some way — trends in entertainment, political happenings, whatever. I’ve developed a similar system the past few years, beginning with compiling a list of what I thought were the best 9 posts of 2009, 10 in 2010 and 11 in 2011.
As you may guess, today we’re here to knock out the 12 highlights of 2012. I’m posting this on 12/12/12 but will not be waiting until 12:12 p.m. to do it. I’m not crazy (and I’ll be asleep). This is actually a really interesting exercise for me, reading back through my year and seeing what stands out. So whether these are new to you, or you’re seeing them again too (in chronological order, not by merit), enjoy:
Call Me Aunt Clara
As a college sophomore, I bought a mini pink bunny suit as a gag Christmas gift in homage to “A Christmas Story.” It became a family tradition to re-gift it each year, and we finally had a recipient small enough to wear it. Includes cute video!
Lame Lameness
I’ve had some freak injuries, but tearing something in my knee while walking was certainly the most ridiculous one (I hope) I will ever suffer. Maybe I just shouldn’t ride Metro.
Carding Mr. Deeds & Tommy, Get Your Milk Carton
I spot a moment in both Mr. Deeds and Snatch — movies I’ve seen many, many times — that make me re-think something fundamental about each story. (These are related, so they count as one entry.)
You Think You Know
A survey-style post more common on blogs of 14-year-old girls, but I found answering these questions about myself to be really interesting (and much more time consuming than I expected).
Houston We Have a Draft
After far too many hours typing away at Starbucks, I finally finish the first draft of my novel. I’m still working on revising, but this was a HUGE milestone.
If Left is Wrong, I Don’t Want to be Right
After seeing an article about the downsides of being left-handed, I went to the important lefties in my life to get their perspective on our awesomeness.
Put Me In Coach
I make my debut pitching off a Major League mound. Never mind that it was in the bullpen and the home Nationals weren’t even playing that day.
Uncle Needs a Chill Pill
Metro rides are often mundane, but sometimes they are hilarious. Of course, it’s hard to deal with statements you think are funny when the speaker is two feet away, not talking to you and completely serious.
And The Gold Medal Goes To…
What began as a joke about marrying a duchess evolved into an Oscar winner. When the Olympics hit London, I set my eyes on a different kind of gold. This includes a bonus flashback to the “Call Me Maybe” era in America courtesy of the U.S. swim team.
The Land Where Pizzas Smile
A long quest to get a pizza place to arrange my pepperonis in the shape of a smiley face finally ends with success. All I had to do was go to another state.
Moshi Moshi Man
Another shameless use of my niece to entice readers, but this one includes her quoting Michelle from “Full House.” You’re welcome.
Playoff Werthy
The Washington Nationals and Jayson Werth provide perhaps the most incredible three innings of baseball I will ever witness.