As I get older, each year seems to fly by before I know it. As scary as that sounds, I do try to make each day fulfilling and help me grow as a person. I enjoy writing up my “reflection” post at the end of each year because it’s the one time I can sit down and really look back on my accomplishments, my failures, the people I’ve met and befriended, and think about the new visions and goals I have for the new year.
１年ごと歳をとるに連れ、毎年があっという間に過ぎて行くのをすごく感じます。「恐ーい！」と思うかもしれませんが、１日１日をなるべく無駄なく過ごすように、自分のためになるように過ごしているつもりです。１年の締めに、このような「振り返り」の記事を書くのが楽しみです。ちょっと一息ついて、今年１年何を成し遂げたか、どこで失敗をしたか、誰と出会えたか、来年はどのようなチャレンジをしたいかをじっくり考えることができるからです。
This year proved to be another challenging year for me. As a model, trying to make a living and having a steady flow of jobs is never easy, but I’m always thankful for the job offers I receive. I always strive to be outgoing, friendly, and flexible for the different types of jobs out there, and I think all have helped to be where I am now. My most recent TV commercial for Apple Pay for Mitsui Sumitomo card was my biggest modeling gig yet, and having been able to work alongside Kiko Mizuhara was a dream come true.
今年も更にチャレンジが多い１年となった気がします。モデルとして、いつもレギュラーに仕事が入る訳ではなく、以外と不安定な職業柄の中、頂いているお仕事には本当に感謝しています。目立つことが何より大事なので、なるべく明るく、フレンドリーに振る舞うように心がけているし、様々な仕事のタイプに合わせれるようにしています。全てが今の私に至っていると思っています。一番最近公開されたお仕事が三井住友カードのApple PayのCMなのですが、多分今年一番大きいお仕事となりました。ここまで頑張って良かった。そして、憧れの水原希子ちゃんと念願の共演ができて、本当に夢みたいでした。
Although they continue to be baby steps at the moment, I’m actually surprised at the accomplishments I’ve made in music. Participating as a lyricist and vocalist in several tracks available on iTunes, performing an original song at Night Nation Run this spring, and now starting my DJ career as of November. I would not have accomplished this much without the support of my fellow musician friends. I’m always told it’s tough to make it in the music industry, but music is life for me and I can’t live without it. That definitely hasn’t changed for me.
現在はまだ少しずつなのですが、今年音楽での活躍の場が以外と多かったのに、今でもびっくりです。世界中のiTunesで配信された楽曲に、作詞家とボーカルとして参加出来たこと、Night Nation Runというミュージックフェスでオリジナルの楽曲を歌ったこと、そして先月、念願のDJデビューを果たしたこと。全て、大切な音楽仲間のサポートがなかったら、絶対できなかったことです。音楽業界で食べて行くことはすごく難しいといつも聞かされていますが、私にとって音楽は命。音楽がない人生は考えられないです。そこはまだ変わっていないかな。
And last but not least, to develop myself as a more accomplished blogger was a huge goal for me this year. It took longer than expected to switch blogging platforms and renew my blog, but I am so happy with how it’s running thanks to the support of my amazing friends. I’m extremely thankful for all of the brands who’ve reached out this year to collaborate with my blog, the photographers who were kind enough to take beautiful photos for me, and of course, my readers! I would not be here today without each and every one of you. I hope to bring you even more thorough, high quality content in 2017 so stay tuned! Have a great New Year everyone and see you in 2017!
そして最後に、ブロガーとして更にレベルアップすることが大きな目標でした。ブログリニューアルに１年もかかってしまいましたが、現時点のブログにはすごく満足しています。いつもサポートしてくれている仲間に助けられて、ここまでくることができました。今年も、私とコラボレーションしたいというブランド、素敵な写真を撮って下さったカメラマン達、そしてもちろん、私の大切な読者達！皆さんのお陰で、今の私がいます。なので、２０１７年も、もっともっとクオリティーの高いコンテンツをお届けしたいと思っています。来年も宜しくお願い致します！
Comptoir des Cotonniers jacket & skirt, Comptoir des Cotonniers turtleneck, Brothers & Sisters headband, Public Desire boots, zeroUV sunglasses, Folli Follie bag
All photos by Rhino Lee
53 comments
Izzy McLeod
I’m glad 2016 has been a fulfilling year for you!
The Quirky Queer
Ollyvia Laura
i love this festive outfit, sister <3
anyway Merry Christmas, hope your days always be filled by joyful Christmas and amazing opportunities <3
miss you a lot xoxo
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Mariann yip
You always have the best outfits and photos! I’m so glad you had a great year and can’t wait to see what 2017 has in store for you!
Jen
It sounds like you had a great year! Everything is a little bit slow to start but I’m sure your modeling and music gigs will pick up. Music is life to for me too and I plan on getting more of my music out there this coming year.
Jennifer
Kiko Mizuhara is one of my favorite models. 🙂
Glad to read that you’ve accomplished so much in 2016!
finja
What a great look, those overknees look amazing! And also, very inspring to blog in two languages, I’m torn. German is my first language but I live in the UK now and blog in English for a wider audience. Any advice?
All the best for 2017!
xx finja | http://www.effcaa.com
Josie
Love this little recap! I think you had a fantastic year! I always loved reading your posts and getting to know you better! I wish an even more successful year babe!
Bisous, Josie
http://www.petiteandbold.com
Yuena Li
Something about you from head to toe is just so Chic. <3 LOVE your style!
With love,
Yuena
http://youtube.com/simplyyue
Helen Chik
It’s always good to reflect each year about all the wins you’ve had and it seems like you had a great one doll! PS you look amazing in this outfit as per usual!
Hope you have some fabulous NYE plans doll!
Helen xx
https://ch1k.com/2016-a-year-of-change
Charissa
So great you grow your blog so much 🙂 For me actually the same. I always love watching your pictures and reading your articles, because you’re so creative, cool and different! Definitely keep it up and see you in 2017 again. XO Charissa – http://www.ladygoldapple.com
gracie
Love the Burgundy & Black ! Beautiful combo for the winter months. You always have the best sunglasses too ! So chic & fun.
Happy New Year !
xx,gracie
snappedbygracie.com
Thomas Falkenstedt
Dear Samantha,
I am immensely proud of you both regarding your career as a model, your steps into music (and DJing, how cool ain’t that?) and as a blogger. These are not easy things to combine either as all of the could be full time jobs, but you’re doing great right now and I’m sure you will achieve everything you’re pursuing for 2017!
Have a wonderful New Years!
xoxo
Thomas
http://thomasfalkenstedt.com
Gina Diaz
This outfit is just perfect on you! so happy to read how far you have come and the most important that you accomplished what you’ve dream of! Happy new year 2017 sweetie!!!
Much love, Gina
http://www.artsyrunway.com
Milex
♥
sara miriam
love it!
https://rrriotdontdiet.blogspot.pt/
Jo
Happy New Year, lovely! I wish you all the best and continued success in 2017!!
xoxo, Jo
http://www.cutandchic.com
Darlene
I know what you mean! I was a model in Asia for 5 years, traveling around by 3 months contract. It was hard to get a steady job as you always don’t know what’s gonna happen the next day, But I admire you! it seems like you’ve done well for yourself! I’m sure you’ll go places more
x
Darlene
Jordan Chapman
It sounds like you have had a pretty amazing year! It’s always good to reflect back on the great year you’ve had and I can’t wait to see what 2017 has in store for you as it will be amazing.
Jordan xx
http://www.thehatlogic.com
Miki
Sounds like a successful year so far. I hope 2017 marks the year you get big as a DJ and are in higher demand for jobs. 🙂 You look great. Love your outfit. 🙂 Happy New Year! All the best for the coming year!
Xo,
Miki
http://mikialamode.com
Sharon Wu
Love that tweed coat on you! Such a gorgeous outfit you’ve put together babe. Sounds like you had an amazing 2016 and I’m wishing you lots of love, success, and happiness in the coming year! xo, sharon
http://www.stylelullaby.com/beauty/transitioning-skin-care-routine-winter-skinfix/
Lisa
I’m so happy to have stumbled upon your blog. I feel like I can relate to the hole modelling thing. It’x so hard to get consistent jobs. But i would never trade it!
XOXO Lisa
http://lisawinckelmans.com/how-to-stick-to-your-new-years-resolutions/
Aldora
WOW 2016 sounds like a hectic but fulfilling year for you Samantha! Can’t wait to see more of your advertising gigs in 2017 and wishing your a Happy New Year in advance 😉
Emilia
Amazing coat 🙂 I must admit I love watching japanese commercials but I haven’t seen this one for Apple Pay. I hope that 2017 will be even better than 2016 for you 🙂
Stephanie
You’ve been able to accomplish some incredible things this past year. Talk about being a total #girlboss! Seriously, you’re an inspiration to me, as you’re doing so many of the things that I would love to one day take part in. Here’s to an awesome year, and cheers to the future!
Stephanie // SheSawStyle.com
Deddeh Howard
This is definitely the outfit I want to step into the New year with. You look amazing beautiful and HAPPY NEW YEAR! ?
Michelle
I didn’t realize you’re a girl of so many talents. Congrats on the Apple gig – it sounds amazing! Wishing you much success in 2017.
Happy New Year!
XO
http://www.lehoarder.com/
Vukosavljevic Ana
Love this outfit!
Looks like you accomplished a lot this year!
emilie
I love the look! (Also, I love that you half-blog in Japanese!)
http://eddieofall.blogspot.com
Jenelle
It sounds like your music side has really kicked in this year, which I am sure will only grow. All the best for the new year, I have no doubts it will be a great one!
xx Jenelle
http://www.inspiringwit.com
Yasmin
I love this twin set you’re wearing and the designer behind it. I have one dress by them that I love and wear with pride. Also, I really enjoyed reading this and learning more about your artistic journey in Asia. I think it’s so inspiring and brave to follow your dreams and work from the bottom to the top. You learn so much that way, and the challenges can be tough. So having friends to back you up is so great. They really become your family away from home. I really hope you continue to grow in your success this year. It gives me a bit of hope in my own creative journey 🙂
xx Yasmin
http://banglesandbungalows.com
Linh Dao
Your year sounds like an amazing year with lots of accomplishments! I love that you got into DJing! That’s really cool! Love your outfit because it is perfect for the weather!
Linh
http://www.xcapewithlinh.com
Candace
I’ve enjoyed all your content this year and I cannot wait to see what you come up with for 2017! I had no idea you were a model; no wonder you’re such a natural in your pics 🙂
http://www.thebeautybeau.com
francesca
this outfit is one of my faves of you!
love this and Happy New Year babe!!
francesca
Frank Vinyl : A California Fashion Blog
Bernice
You’ve had a very successful year with gigs and I wish you even more opportunities in 2017!
http://www.bunnybernice.com/single-post/2016/12/31/New-Years-Eve-in-Bras-n-Things-lingerie
gail
You’ve come so far and I am proud of you love! Remember when we first started our own thing, and look how far we have become nowadays. Though, we may not reach the goal we have expected, every hard work always pays off!
http://www.thequinoxfashion.com/
Dolce Nina
Happy new year gorgous! xoxo
Cindy
Happy to read all that you acomplished in one year. I hope 2017 you achieve all your goals.
xo| Cindy
http://www.boringclothes.com
diana
it is pretty cool to see how you grow and your adventurous life in Japan. Modeling, being a DJ and a blogger, I’m very surprised how do you find so much time! Happy New Year!
http://www.queenhorsfall.com/
sonia // daring coco
You’ve done so well for yourself, and the string of accomplishments are only going to grow and grow this year. I can’t wait to see them all and follow you on your journey. Wishing you all the very best beautiful for a successful and happy 2017.
Sxx
http://www.daringcoco.com
Camille
Be proud of every accomplishment, even the little ones! Love this look and best wishes to you for 2017, I’m sure your modeling will only continue to thrive!
TeninDVR
It seems like 2016 has been such a fulfilling year for you ! Congratulations on every thing you achieved, I wish more success for 2017 🙂
xo.TDVR
http://www.tenindvr.blogspot.com
A Very Sweet Blog
Sam, this is a wonderful tribute! I think you accomplished so much in 2016. I’m very proud of you! You’ve worked with some amazing brands. I love your style & your attention to posing in photographs. You have a lot to be proud of. More will come your way! I just know it. Pray. Believe. Have Faith. Love the outfit you’re wearing here. Wishing you many blessings in 2017.
http://www.averysweetblog.com/
Open Kloset
Hey Sweetie:)
So Amazing coat and Totally In Love with that over the Knee Boots:) Is it Comfortable?
You Look so Chic as Always:)
How was your New Years Eve?
Wish you Happy New Year;)
Love Open Kloset By Karina
New:http://openklosetfashion.blogspot.pt/2017/01/rainforest-handcrafted-wood-sunnglasses.html?m=1#more
Belle
Samantha you should absolutely be proud of yourself! What I think I’m going to aim for this year is to stop comparing myself to others and their accomplishments. It sounds to me like you’ve gotten a ton done and you should celebrate even the little things!
<3 Happy New Year love!
xx Belle
Cece Lam
your winter styling is so creative and lovely!
http://www.cecelam.com/2016/12/new-era.html
Atsuna Matsui
I’m so proud of the accomplishments that you’ve made for 2016. I hope that your modeling career continues to take off in 2017 and that you get to book larger campaigns and more commercial. 🙂
http://www.atsunamatsui.com
marcy
Have really enjoy following and reading your content babe!! You have such an unique style that really enjoyed.
Looking forward to keep growing with you. Please keep sharing your amazing content. Happy new year!
xo
Marcy
Eva
Hello dear!!!
Such a nice match. Remind me a CatWoman ?. Beautiful bag also babe . This burgundy velvet looks very somptous on you !
Xx
Eva
http://www.themermaidfashion.com
Amanda Sorenson
yes, yes, yes!! I am obsessed with this look babe – so chic.
xo
http://aasoren.com
Jane Y.
Wishing you so much more growth and experiences in 2017. xx
Amy
Hope 2017 is the best year yet!! I find writing down my goals is really helpful in allowing me to visualize and go for them. Best of luck to you!! You look gorgeous btw 🙂
xx, Amy
http://www.theluxilook.com
Sofia
I love the oat you’re wearing! And it seems like what you accomplished during 2016 is just the beginning, 2017 is going to be amazing for you. Im sure of it!
http://aloveaffairblog.com
Josephine Jo
You’re a true inspiration Sam!
http://www.itsjosephinejo.blogspot.com