I have just turned 21.

Simply typing that age seems so odd to me! It seems like just yesterday I was tye-dying out in the backyard, with my friends, at my 13th birthday party. Where does the time go?

Anyway, exactly one year ago, I turned 20 years old. I was officially out of my teens and ready to tackle adult-ing! Or so I thought.

This past year was one full of sweet blessings, hard lessons and very difficult days but still altogether full of joy. The year went by fast, but at the same time there were periods where it felt that I was moving in slow motion.

While browsing the internet this year, I noticed that two of my favorite YouTubers, Alexa Losey and Karlie Kloss (from Klossy), made videos where they reminisced on their past year of life. They both baked cakes during their "20 things" countdown.

There won't be a homemade cake at the end of this, but I have learned a lot of tips and advice along the way of my 20th year that I will share.

1. Reach out for help if you need it.

I've always been the type of person that says "I'm fine," when I'm really not. This year especially, I've realized that it's totally alright to reach out for help and lean on the support that is all around me.

2. Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are a fast and tasty go-to lunch.

Or midnight snack! Don't worry, no one's judging.

3. Saying goodbye is tough.

I miss my Grandpa every single day, and losing him in January was the most difficult thing that I've experienced. However, I've gained the most amazing guardian angel. I know that he is watching over me and has my back.

4. Pulling an all-nighter is never a good idea.

This procrastinator thinks that she can handle staying up all night studying and getting school work done, but she always kicks herself the next day for not going to bed.

5. It's okay to say "no."

It's impossible to do everything and be everywhere! Lesson learned.

6. Winstead's will always turn around a bad day.

Their cherry limeades and onion rings, shared with good company, will cure anything terrible that came your way that day.

7. Change is scary, but necessary.

Changing my major this year was taking that giant leap of faith, but looking back, I'm happy I did. Change can be daunting, terrifying and uncertain. But it is needed for growth and a different perspective.

8. Friends are life's biggest blessings.

I seriously don't know where I would be if it weren't for my friends' constant support, love and authenticity. I don't know how I got so lucky with the friends that I have. This past year, they were there for me by providing a shoulder to cry on, or perhaps a late-night singing car ride where we could forget our problems for a bit.

9. Going to all of those concerts was worth it.

I often got the comment, "Wow, you really go to a lot of concerts!" However, I completely stand by my decision. You can't beat the live music scene with your best friends!

10. When in doubt, get the Royals shirt.

As a true Kansas Citian, I've learned that you can never have too many. The World Series parade this year was one of the most beautiful sights ever.

11. Let yourself relax.

It sounds easier said than done, but I really learned that I need to get rid of all electronics for the evening, break out a devotional and savor in the sacred silence.

12. Only be involved with things in which you are passionate about.

I tend to over commit myself. During this past year I realized that I need to prioritize what I want to consume my time in.

13. Always take Grandma's word for it.

She is one smart lady and will forever be right about matters!

14. Take a drive.

Forget about gas money for a second, go the long way home, turn up the jams and ease your mind by taking a quick drive around.

15. Quit being so hard on yourself.

I need this for a constant reminder to myself. Embrace your flaws and accept them. Trying to have everything be perfect is exhausting and impossible.

16. Embrace your singlehood.

Even though at times it can feel like you're #singleforever (especially after you log on to Facebook and see that yet another friend is getting engaged), not having a relationship doesn't necessarily mean that you're missing out on anything. It just means that you're waiting on someone special, but still having fun making lasting memories with your friends in the process!

17. Don't compare.

It's great to admire someone's life or way of doing things, but never, ever compare yourself to them. There is no one like you, so don't try to be like someone else.

18. Your parents are VIP.

I would be a complete hopeless cause without their love, steadfast understanding, unwavering support and wisdom. They never fail to be there for me 100 percent and words can never fully thank them.

19. Always find the positive amidst the negative.

Super difficult of a task, but needed for your sanity and joy-seeking.

20. When there is a "book discussion" in class, read the assigned chapters.

It isn't fun to be lost and trying to fake it 'til you make it during the entire class.

(Surprise! Here's a virtual cake for you.)

My 20th year of life was interesting, low at times, thrilling, but full of life lessons. Cheers to 21!