Lessons Learnt in a Weird Year

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[@kylietonkin4555]

You appear to have reached the ‘breathe out’ stage of life! You speak it, but more so, you exude it! You seem so much more grounded, relaxed and, finally, happy!

[@xAbbieCx13]

This was such a beautiful video Carrie. I think we were all in shock when we found out about the breakup, but I'm so happy for you that you've found someone else who clearly makes you so happy and who you hopefully have a wonderful future with. It sort of weirdly hit me watching this how much you've grown as a person. At the end of this year I will have been following you for a whole decade, which is insane. I'm so proud of the person you've become and you really genuinely have helped guide me to be the person that I am today. xx

[@Carrie]

A whole decade?! That is WILD. Thank you for sticking with me for all that time 😭♥️

[@00tortoise]

A decade for me too! One of the first videos I remember watching was ‘Taking over toms house’!

[@Sailor_S]

Right? I remember when she announced that she was going to play Eponine on the West End and she was still in her childhood bedroom. She's changed so much in so many good ways.

[@KAIMAOFFICIAL]

@@Carrie Literally all of this ^^ this is such a beautiful video, and yeah a lot has happened in 10 years but my god you literally radiate happiness here even though you talk about some incredibly tough things, and it’s wonderful. This is something I’m going to come back to over and over.. and is a good reminder that we shouldn’t ever have to beg someone to stay. I needed to hear that ❤️ couldn’t be bloody happier, it’s a JOY to watch you x

[@dawnhazell2697]

I too am in the hopeful decade club! I was having a memory the other day of carrie in her bedroom ranting about a rude lady on the train who was rude to her and out of spite carrie didnt say 'bless you' 😂

[@layoverbear]

that little bit about joel was SO SWEET! "so! this is the rest of our lives!" made me awwww out loud. so so happy for you carrie x

[@em7169]

When you said "this is the rest of our lives", I started crying. Man. I've followed you since I was, what, maybe 14? So 8 years ago? And I've definitely dipped in and out, but-- and i know this is parasocial-- but I care about you and it's so lovely to hear that you feel that way. Every new relationship you've been in, which I believe from your videos has seemed better than the last, has made me so happy for you. Congrats on finding someone who makes you feel that way

[@emilyscheide985]

The person I thought I would spent my life with abruptly broke up with me in a text yesterday. This video helped me more than you know, and this isn’t even the first time you have helped me through a very difficult time without even knowing. Thank you so much for existing and sharing yourself with us! I hope you continue as long you want to, and as long as it serves you. It makes me so happy and makes me hopeful to see how much love you have given and received this year. You deserve all of the wonderful things that are happening and that you have made happen. And so do I ❤️.

[@CrankyPantss]

Emily Scheide I’m sorry that happened to you, Sweetie. You deserve better than that and some day you will find it. Make it a priority to be good to yourself until it comes naturally again. Take care, hon. It WILL get better.

[@gwenhughes8650]

So sorry to hear this! Sending you love and prayers

[@HannahKitchen99]

Just wanted to reach out- the person I thought I would spend forever with blindsided me and ended things over email in July so I really really feel for you. Still losing my mind but sending you so much love.

[@emilyscheide985]

@@HannahKitchen99 I am so sorry to hear something similar happened to you. I would never have ended things this way, and I have to remind myself when it hurts the most that I deserve someone who would never stoop this low. We both deserved so much better, but we will get stronger from this. I believe in you! Sending all the love right back.

[@Indijana]

Just recently I've discovered that soulmates in my religion are souls we've bonded with before we were put into this life. This is why we feel such a connection to them in this life. And we've bonded with them then because we felt attracted to their soul whether as friends or otherwise. I love that definition of soulmates because it means you can have multiple soulmates, platonic ones, ones who you only meet shortly and also always that chance of meeting more. 🤗

[@TeamTaylorAdventure]

“If you learn from it, it wasn’t a mistake” I don’t regret any of my past relationships, because they have all taught me something, which means when I did find my person that I appreciated them 😊. When you have kids it takes DisneyWorld to a whole new level, to watch your child experience the magic is really nothing short of magical, and you have all that ahead of you ❤. Very brave and honest video Carrie, that’s why we love you 😘 x

[@kymloats2239]

I went through a breakup in week 2 of 2022. i can't believe we were going through this at the same time. when you say that resilience you learned was massive?? i can't agree more. 5 years with one person, living together, having a cat together. i had to leave and live with my parents at 23. I felt like a failure. but I'm here now - I don't think entirely on the other side - but I am here. and I cannot tell you how much better I feel about it after you have put this into words. so thank you, Carrie

[@amyg8176]

23 is so young!

[@OneandonlyRachel_]

I'm pretty sure a lot of people can agree with me here, but you definitely have grown as a person through this year and it's been amazing to see you find your happy place through the bumps and turns 100% friends are the best, the friends I've had in 2022 are amazing and so positive especially when it comes to when I went through some bumps earlier this year. Also I've realized that I need to stop spending my time focusing on people and things I cannot change and just move on, no point dwelling in the past when you can move forward💜

[@Carrie]

Ahhh that’s really life of you. Thank you. I feel it too! 🎉 I’m so pleased you’ve had similar wonderful epiphanies! ♥️

[@charlottesteed1026]

I'm happily married with a child now, but the first lesson was something my teenage self NEEDED. I made so many poor decisions throughout those years because I needed to be needed. I wish someone had said to me that I shouldn't have to convince anyone to stay with me. Thank you for sharing your lessons, Carrie. I hope the remainder of your year is a positive experience filled with joy. Thank you for making videos all these years.

[@emmadorion3165]

it's so beautiful and special to have grown up with you, to have been a teenager hearing about your first west end role and the writing of your first books, and now to be a 27 year old hearing you say how excited you are about your thirties and beginning a family, thank you for sharing all of this with us

[@SuperKid578]

‘When you know, you know’ is such an important factor. I met my other half back in 2018, after years of giving up and things not working out. And now next year we are having a Disney Fairytale Wedding. And I’m so blessed to have someone like him, who just gets me. 💕

[@annabelyates5219]

This feels like a grown up version of the videos I grew up with and I love it - thanks for an amazing decade (and a bit, I think)! Also the autumnal aesthetic is on point 🍂😍

[@phoebexfairy]

Giiiirl!!! Growing up with you is such a great thing to have. It's weird how our experiences and feelings have just walked along side each other. It's good to know we are learning together. You got this chick! WE got this! Xx

[@emilyhughes1628]

Excellent 'Internet Big-Sister-ing' Carrie! It has also been a weird year for me. My fiancé died very suddenly and unexpectedly towards the end of last year, so a lot of what you said about realising your inner strength and self resilience really resonated with me. I've also been lucky enough to have the most phenomenal friends and family, who picked me up when I was broken and stayed with me all the way.

[@LittleDergon]

The whole 'when you know, you know' is so true 😁 my parents were friends for a few years at Uni, were dating for 4 months before they got engaged. My sister did the same (although they dated for 6 months), my other sister dated her now husband for a year. I have very much grown up around 'when you know, you know', and one of the things that really struck me when I started dating my boyfriend (who is my 'I know') is that other people around you also know. There is an intangible quality of assured love that just happens, and others who know you notice. The way you describe the realisation of 'oh so this is the rest of our lives' is exactly how I felt- and still feel! even five years on ❤

[@SamanthaJayne_x]

This is one of those videos that you don't know you need until you watch it. You've had such a glow-up this year! And I love how your friends were all there for you. They are definitely the kind people you need around you all the time.

[@emmal7091]

This is just wonderful, Carrie. You’ve learned, you’ve grown and you are so ready for whatever comes next. Hope you’re genuinely taking pride in the vast quantities of lemonade that you’re now making from the lemons others may seem to have thrown you. xxx😊

[@Carrie]

Ahh what a lovely comment! Thank you so much. 😊

[@salamanda11]

You describing your first date and “knowing” it was right… That is so damn sweet. I’m so glad you’re happy. You deserve every happiness. 🧡

[@cassandragough]

You are the wisest "big sister" Carrie! Just keep doing things your way because you are amazing. I admire both you and your considerable talent so much.

[@daniB70]

OK, just timing that you released this video during this particular time of the year. I’ve now been following you for two years, you did a vid talking about dealing with loss/sadness…you used the example of the fizzy bottle & ALLOWING yourself to feel your feels, then crack on…💜 (long winded, but thank you for everything)

[@Carrie]

Seems like we’re on a similar trajectory in life! ♥️

[@jackwack5402]

I think I needed this video at this time in my life. I’m almost 22 and about to graduate uni and all of a sudden I have to actually think about what I’m going to do next. This video echoes a lot of the lessons my Mum would tell me; resilience, emotional vampires, giving less of a fuck as you get older, never EVER taking a job for money over comfort/passion (she made me promise I wouldn’t!!) and much more. But I deffo needed to hear all of it said in a row to remind me that I already have everything I need to move forward and the future doesn’t need to be scary and unknown! And even if I do get scared, that’s not something to be ashamed of and I can, in fact, do it anyways!! I’m always so happy to see the glimpses of Carrie’s life with her wonderful husband and baby girl. You simply love to see it!

[@nadinevicente597]

It also happened to me. Been left after 10 years together, 6 years married, one kid and pregnant. Living in another country. I cannot explain the feeling when I saw people that I've always known pop up from every single corner just to be there for me. More than sadness about what happened, I was proud and happy to have captivated so many people through life that they would actually go out of their way for me. I felt more validated, loved and cared for than in all my years in a relationship.

[@mummylovesbooks4503]

I said in an instagram of yours that it’s only looking at you now with Joel that I realise that as happy as you thought you were in other relationships I have never seen you glow with so much happiness and confidence as you do in this one. You have so much to be proud of in yourself this year and how dignified and strong and confident you have remained and I hope you have so much joy to come ❤

[@nomorebutterflies]

tearing up as this summer i was dumped by my boyfriend of 5 years in a very sudden manner (just as you were describing) and what you said about not forcing people to love you because you don’t deserve to be “loved” just because really resonated with me. i’ve been watching you for god knows how many years, i’ve lost count, and this is my fave video of yours without a doubt. you are glowing girl!

[@rachelmcnally8144]

Hearing you talk about Joel is so heartwarming and beautiful and I really hope I find that xxx

[@taramoran7864]

you talking about staying w scott’s family gave me goosebumps. how lucky are we when we have those sorts of people in our lives!

[@fionamaclean7948]

Heartbreak is heartbreak. Whether it is caused by a death, the end of a romantic relationshp or a friendship. I prefer the term 'Hopeful romantic' rather than 'Hopeless romantic'. There is nothing wrong with a bit of hope. With every ending there is a new beginning. How wonderful that your new beginning shows such promise.

[@emscttn]

i just wanna say, having watched your videos for years i can see you’ve grown SO much and i cannot wait for you to be a mother because i just know those kids are going to have the best morals and life lessons taught to them! 💞💞

[@mirelaabreu9930]

Carrie, I have never heard you laugh this freely! It is so strange how before I thought you were this carefree happy giggly person, and now seeing you in this video, how full of happiness you are... you are basically glowing! And your loud laugh is great hahaha I am really happy for you and thanks for sharing your lessons!

[@embemp3]

Keep being you, unapologetically you. Your story is only just beginning and all these chapters you go through, whether happy or sad are what makes you you. As long as you are true to yourself that is all that matters. Thank you for taking us along for the ride. I hope you realise just how much you help others by sharing some of those chapters with us. You’ve certainly helped me a lot over the last 10 years. More than you’ll ever know. You really are the gift that keeps on giving. And like you always say, five minutes at a time. You got this. Much love Carrie ❤️

[@Sarah-gs5dl]

This video has left me with the biggest smile! Thank you :)

[@Carrie]

I'm so glad!

[@HobbitOnSpacehoppers]

Carrie is either tipsy or deliriously happy and I am here for it 😂

[@Lauraphoid]

Gin made an appearance in the beginning of the video...

[@foldedpages3220]

Hey Carrie, I've been watching since I was 13 (now 24!) and I'm going through a break up of an 8-year relationship, only 2 weeks in. 'Shattered heart' is about right. Thank you for your wonderful energy and Hopeful community spirit, it's been a lifesaver 💗

[@TheGirlInGeekGlasses]

I've been following you online for 10 whole years Carrie, and I am so happy to see that you've found your sparkle again. All of us watching feel nothing but pride! ❤

[@ajb1tic1tac]

I never appreciated previously how you had to carry on singing those songs whilst going through that heartbreak. I am so in awe of how you battled through that. The shock of a breakup you don't see coming is horrific. I am so PLEASED it seems your year will end far better than it started 👍

[@tiag.2860]

I’ve spent this whole year focusing on myself, doing things that’ll help me achieve my goals and I can’t tell my “friends” because I know they’ll have something to say or to put a dent in my spirit

[@naomiarmstrong6601]

Wow this is so special to watch. I started watching you when I was 15, your west end videos where great escapism. I'm 24 now, I've watched you flourish as a performer but also in your personal life. My heart broke for you when you went through your break up, as I was healing from heartbreak at the time. This is so special to see you and so thankful you're so happy with Joel and thankful for your friends supporting you ❤️ thank you for everything. Thank you for your openness 💕

[@littletoe116]

Carrie I've been a viewer since I was in high school (in my late 20's now!), and it's so beautiful to hear your wisdom and still find so much comfort in it. Thank you for being here on the internet.

[@mariethatsme3590]

This is a really great authentic video I have been through divorce last year, break ups are valid they really are a loss. somebody told me once this - People are with you for a reason , a season, or a lifetime. This has stuck with me and really helps to rationalise and learn those lessons. I am so grateful I have a lovely life to look forward to and I have grown through those lessons.

[@beagoth1]

I'm a bit late for this video, but weirdly I watched it at just the right time. I feel like my early 2022 self and my current self are completely different people, and I'm so so happy that you're here to put some of the things I was feeling into words, Carrie. Specially when it come to breakups and friendships. I've been through a couple breakups this year (which is a LOT considering they were my first couple relationships too), and I just knew I had to let go but it was so hard for some reason. I was also very lucky to have amazing friends who took me in and made things a bit easier. But hearing what I already knew deep down being put into words was like getting a heavy weight off my heart. I've been watching your videos since 2012 maybe, and I'm so grateful to have found you so early because I feel like I grew up and learned a lot from you. It's madness that this I video JUST NOW. Happy New Year, Carrie! May 2023 be THE BEST YEAR YET. For all of us.

[@Alison_Murphy]

Carrie, I was married, had a child and divorced. I then met my (almost) husband and yes, we did the same.... 'oh! right! hello!!! there you are!' It's a real thing. It took me to 40 to finally find my human and and know what love is. All the very best to you on your journey xxxx

[@emaross582]

Absolutely! When you find your person. Hold on tight. Happy for you!

[@laurenheywood3790]

everything you have said in this video is so powerful, and heartwarming and raw. you are the epitomy of an optimist who genuinely finds diamonds in shit! You are grateful for everything bad and good which is such a good message to throw out to the world. celebrating sadness as well as happiness and being unapologetic for that. you are so cool, don't let anyone dim your light!

[@SuperBlackky]

I feel the title of the video should have been “what I really know now”. Lovely video to watch 😊

[@sydnigrauberger5984]

LOVE this fiery red on you; truly fits your vivacity, your strength, your intelligence, your hutspah, and your abundance of character! I truly hope and believe that your dignity, true warmth and kindness for others, and your basic character in the midst of things happening in this "weird year" will continue to bring you great career opportunities. Because not only do people want to be enriched by your great talents and gifts, they also just want to work with someone who makes the working environment, and those within it, better. Praying for much continued happiness and blessings, and life lessons, for you, dear! 💜 🌹

[@claireb1183]

This video was a joy to watch for a number of reasons. It strikes me that you not only learned your own resilience, but you also learned empathy towards yourself. You knew you were in pain and you gave yourself the space to acknowledge it (supported by what sounds like an incredible group of friends), and then worked back towards happiness. We hear a lot of be kind to other people, but in the months and years to come, I hope you're kind to yourself too.

[@salamanda11]

We’re exactly the same age (turned 30 yesterday!), and I am so with you on not being scared of getting older. I’m getting married this year, and I’m actually excited to have a kid after that! I didn’t think I’d be that person, but that’s my reality now! I’m just so glad to see you happy after the rough start to the year. ❤

[@emmaj.3676]

I hope you realise just how good this video is. I've just turned 24 and feel like I'm stumbling though life trying to figure out how to be a grown up. And just listening to your advice really made me feel like this is something that will figure itself out. It made me realise how much we all learn by just living. Feel like these are the advice I would have gotten from an older sister, if I had one, and I really appreciate you sharing these

[@septimasnape]

I am following you now for about 15 years? I found you when you still had your very long hair, and sat in your bedroom singing about how book boyfriends are better. When I compare you today and back then and look at what you have accomplished and how you have grown as a person and how you still have awesome hair, I am so proud of you. I will be a Hopeful for as long as you are willing to put content on the internet. I wish you all the best for your future.

[@sweetForgiveness]

One of the lessons i learned recently is: "The water wont get warmer while you wait. Jump in!". and that was a really great tip for me.

[@ellie.preston]

This is without a doubt my favourite video you have ever made. Especially when you were talking about how certain life things become more or less important. I’m turning 20 in December and I’ve spent the last year trying to navigate uni life after having moved to London from Blackpool and it was really scary, but I’m proud in that I pushed my self to do things that terrified me (one of them actually being being brave enough to go up and talk to you at the what’s on stage awards, so sorry for my word vomit and thanks for being so lovely😂🥰). I feel like my adult life is kind of starting and a video like this is exactly what I needed! Also just bought tickets to see you and Jamie in Once, can’t wait! Xx

[@AndreaMGC]

The fact that you have to defend your struggles because they are "trivial" makes me so mad. Like this year I lost my Aunt to Covid, I had to declare bankruptcy, got a scary mental health diagnosis, and am currently struggling to keep a roof over my head.. but you know what? I've never been through a horrific heartbreak.. I can't even begin to imagine your pain, confusion, and grief (because it IS grief)... our experiences differ but they don't ever sit on a scale. Your experiences are valid and my heart goes out to you. I look up to you, and your show of self-kindness, and love inspire me.

[@alaynakrastins9812]

Such a gorgeous video Carrie, loosing loved ones is extremely difficult I lost my gorgeous grandma January 30th the week after her 78th birthday, it’s been my toughest year but my dad has always been there for me My dad is my best friend ❤

[@AngelHeartz143]

Hey Carrie! I’ve been watching your channel since I was in high school and this year I graduated college and am turning 22! Seeing how much you’ve grown into yourself over the years and how confident you are now makes me so happy and is weirdly comforting to me. As someone in my early twenties, I know that life ahead of me will be so unpredictable and beautiful and I’m glad that the 30s seem to be a state that is so joyful for many instead of something to dread. I’ve always felt pressured that my 20s are supposed to be the best years of my life but lately I’ve been thinking about how lucky we are to be able to live long lives, and that the happiest moments may happen at every stage of our lives. I’m moving to a whole different country next month and taking a leap of faith into a whole new career and life and I just really like knowing and believing that things do get better, happiness is always just around the corner, and love is all around us x ❤

[@elieska]

This was an emotional watch, Carrie. Seeing you nearing your 30s like this makes me so looking forward to the growth and development that I will see in the next years. At 24 now I see how a lot is changing and moving. Hearing people talk about how the puzzle will fall into its place near 30 makes me excited. All the shifting that is going on in my life, can't wait to see how it will fall into place in the time coming. So that's why it was emotional for me personally. But also to see you so genuinely calm, at ease and happy with where you are right now is so so lovely to see. The way you looked and talked really let this calmness and happiness shine through. Happy for you!

[@lesleysmith1396]

True friends are gold. Had my beautiful friends not picked us up and wrapped my kids and I in love when my partner died last year, I would have sunk! Knowing they have our backs has got me through many dark days since. And you do smile again...It's so good to see you so happy, long may it continue 💕🙂

[@katekilroy7827]

There is a line in the song "Rosemary" By Brian Fallon that I feel relates to what you were saying. It goes "And everybody hurts, and mine ain't the worst, but it's mine and I'm feeling it now". As you were talking, I thought of that line. Thank you for sharing and sending lots of love.

[@heatherlowery8274]

I wanted to have kids at 25 when I was a lot younger, got to 22 and thought absolutely not I'm still a kid! Then I met my partner, a pandemic hit and lo and behold, I'm now 25 with an 18 month old! Wasn't expecting that to happen at all!

[@georgie1410]

One of my most favourite of your videos! I used to think you had to work at relationships - until I met my husband! We have been married for 11 years now and been together for about 15. That's how you know - it's just easy. We disagree/have a tiff approx once a year - it just works ❤

[@shannonmiddleton1960]

that last point you made, i totally agree! ive said to people for years who have told me to 'cheer up because other people have it worse or have been through worse'...just because someone else has had it worse doesn't make it any less real or difficult to you. i think its great how youve taken the negatives from your year and managed to reflect on them and almost turn them into something...positive?

[@maddietillem6778]

I can't thank you enough for this video. Your wisdom and honesty is so refreshing. I started watching you in March 2020. I had just become obsessed with theater, but couldn't see anything live. Your old vlogs gave me a small taste of this amazing world. I have to admit, I felt disappointed when I saw your current videos only to find you're not still the same person you were during Les mis, or the Addams family, or even Heathers. I was 14 at the time, and was so afraid of changing. Now I'm 16, and it's because of your videos that I've begun to accept that I can change and grow and still be the same person inside. It's because of your videos that I've begun to accept that I don't know everything, but that I can learn, and that doesn't have to be scary. And it's because of your videos that I'm the huge theater nerd that I am. Thank you forever Carrie. You might not use the pinky finger logo anymore, but I'm forever a hopeful.

[@laurasmith7883]

I'm literally 1 minute into this video so it's probably totally irrelevant, but you sitting infront of the book case is bringing back so much nostalgia from your old videos at your parents house

[@Issy10111]

This was a really lovely video. I’m a teacher. I’ve just started at a new school. I struggle so much to make friends. I don’t have a big circle. And it’s stuff I’m working on really, really hard. This just made me realise how far I’ve come. From watching your Les Mis vlogs to now, I feel we’re different people in the best way possible. I love that. 💜

[@eleanorjay9568]

Carrie, you have no idea how proud I am of you! I started watching you almost 10 years ago and I feel like I've grown up alongside you. Everything you said in this video hit me so hard and I feel so lucky to have watched you go through this journey and become to amazing person you are now

[@oranbowes1278]

Just hearing your voice makes my feel so much better every single day thank you

[@mouse_2010]

My love is for everything theatre,books and disney too!! All my friends are into things like anime and i feel like i dont fit into the group i just get ignored and i just have to stand there and agree. Coming to your videos at the end of a school day is the best. Seeing you do something you love on stage acting like someone else so naturally has kind of inspired me to read more and go to theatre (within the last 3 yrs after lockdown i have really gotten into musical theatre and ive seen a total of 10 shows) all worh either my cousin,my mum, my aunt, my nan or all of the above.

[@laurenyardley-moore268]

this video is getting me through the hour i have stuck in euston station so thank you so much for this. life lesson do not travel from london euston :))

[@Carrie]

London Euston is quite the station! Sorry you got stuck but I hope you’re home and safe now! ❤

[@dani7365]

"When you know, you know". That's my lesson from last year as well. Worked with my now boyfriend for 5 years, got along really well but never really hung out outside of work or just the 2 of us since he had a girlfriend. Long story short, he broke up with his now ex, we went on a date, spent literally 8 hours in his car talking about life, our goals and beliefs and we just knew that that was it, we were meant to be. We've been together for almost a year now and we already live together and have a dog! Life is good when you know.

[@annarantou8763]

I didn't realise how much I needed this video until I saw it. I'm not a person who typically comments but as you are a person who I admire, it's nice to hear about the struggles (in an odd way) because also seeing you over come the difficulties is inspiring. Also completely relatable. I felt like my world was falling apart at the beginning of this year as I dropped out of uni, ended a relationship that was on and off for 4 years and had no job. I managed to turn it around now and have had my first day studying musical theatre in Cambridge today. Every single time I was low I would put on a video of you and remind myself of my goals and now I'm following my dream. I couldn't thank you enough. I hope you continue learning and growing and that you get everything you want out of life ❤

[@chinninto]

Carrie... I'm going through *the* hardest moment of my life yet and this video was literally everything I needed to hear but didn't know. I'm going through a breakup (4y relationship too...), my birthday is right here, after the breakup, so of course I'm miserable. I never had to work/study so much in my entire life, and it's really hard waking up every single day full of demands that I cannot postpone and summoning the energy to function like a human being. But, like you said, the right people in those circles will help you through it. I work as a translator for a publisher (novels, young adult, thrillers, etc) and this is a dream job because... well... books!! But it's so hard! Although I have work/study-colleagues that, well, make it easier, fighting the loneliness is so hard. But hearing your words and experience makes me feel less alone because I know that you and many, many other people have felt this - in some level, in some way - at some point. I love how you're always so honest and straightforward about everything. I've been following you for many years and it warms my heart to see how happy you are, to see you becoming stronger and stronger (I know social media is not everything, but like... I think you get it). Thank you so very much for this, and I'm sooooo happy for you. I'm always wishing you the very best, because you're so kind and good-hearted. Thank you thank you thank you. Sending lots of love

[@fearnevlogs]

This video is beautiful❤️ I met one of my soulmates this year through a hopefuls group chat and I quite honestly I don’t know what I would do without her now ❤️

[@Carrie]

Oh my gosh that makes me so happy!!!! 🥹

[@emmemmemmemme]

I did not expect to cry 😢 Thank you for always being our big sister and putting words to how we feel

[@lucymiller8172]

you look like an autumn witch and I mean it in the most fantastical whimsical cool way possible!! Xx

[@corinnehall2662]

This is such a powerful video..not just for the good advice but because of how happy and joyful you are in your life now. Thank you for sharing!!!

[@JamieFaulkner7170]

Literally shouting 'Yesssss' at so many of these! I realised from a break up a couple of years ago that I had finally been in a healthy relationship. It was the break up that made me realise how strong I could be, that relationships are meant to be a pairing, not a completion. If I hadn't had that experience I wouldn't be where I am now, living with a guy I love and happy. As for the job thing, 100% yes. Absolutely yes. The idea of living to work instead of working to live is awful and actually recognising this is so important. It's great to see you seem to be so content Carrie!

[@beltingtokra]

Carrie, you're a few months older than me, I remember watching you with Mary Poppins on Children in Need way way back, thinking, hey she looks really cool, id love to do that! I got into amdram and still love musicals, although my life took a different route in the end. I have read and thoroughly enjoyed your first book, you are the slightly older sister I never had. Keep being amazing 👏

[@erinenright598]

Having solid friends during a break up is so important. When I was going through a break up in March I learned how truly wonderful my friends are. The day of the break up, literally about ten minutes after it happened, I found myself crying in my car in the parking lot at school and I got a phone call from my best friend. She happened to be in her car and asked if I was ok. When I told her what had happened, she instantly ran over, got in my care and held my hand as tightly as she could while I just cried and cried. She didn't say anything and she didn't need to. But helped so much for her to be there with me so I didn't have to deal with it all alone. Also, I highly suggest having friends that help you deal with things in different ways. I could cry in front of my best friend because I felt I could be vulnerable like that with her. But also, I tend to deal with things with dark humor and another one of my good friends is great at letting me do that. She knows that I'm joking and doesn't make me feel bad for finding light in a dark moment. Friends are everything and I literally don't know how I would have gotten through this year without mine.

[@EA-fv8dq]

You are glowing! I had a terrible break up from a what I now realise was a very toxic relationship and that break up was the best thing that happened to me. I found out who I was again. 5 and a bit years later I am now married to my soul mate and couldn't be happier! It all works out in the end! ❤

[@pinkmeta]

And now I’m crying♥️ I’ve been watching you for over a decade and you can see the happiness radiating off you!

[@GeimywithaG]

Having friends become family is really the best part of your late twenties! Thank you for sharing with us! ❤️

[@lr2683]

Oh my god Carrie I used to watch your videos so many years ago and I came back to check what's going on with you. I've gone through my first ever breakup early this year too and I am still absolutely shattered because like you, I didn't see it coming and I didn't want to lose him. But I feel so much better now that I randomly came to watch a video fo yours and you immediately address the same issue I've been struggling with.

[@leisafloyd6933]

I think a lot of young people need to hear this, as you say seasons come & go & life is something very hard (we wouldn’t appreciate the good stuff if it wasn’t) - but you show with love, support from friends & family you come out of on the other side a stronger person. Young people pin everything on one thing & when that doesn’t go the way they want - if effects them deeply & for some they just don’t see anything ever being good again - we just need to give ourselves time & to be kind to ourselves. Love you Carrie, keep doing what your doing 🇦🇺♥️

[@philippasmith8206]

Literally going through a long term breakup now…and my pet has just passed away. This is the video I needed. Thank you for sharing. Lots of love. Pleased to hear you are happy x

[@bobfletcher8196]

So sorry for your loss, losing a pet can be really hard.

[@jasminesaunders9306]

one of my highlights of things you have shared this year was your family Disney trip- seeing you spending time with your brother, sis in law and nephews was so heartwarming 🌟

[@sammy431]

So not the point of this absolutely beautiful video but the aggressively autumn vibes from this look is just stunning. I appreciate your vulnerability to do videos like these, so many people of all ages can gain so much from simply hearing someone else say these things 💜 and the smile that instantly comes across your face when you mention Joel is beautiful

[@michaelagarland8284]

Hi Carrie! There is so much truth in this video! In 2006 at the age of 35 I found my ❤️. Everyone had always said 'when you know you know' I was Blessed enough to Know. We went through ups and downs but I would not change a second. He lost his long battle with lung cancer in 2019. I have people telling me things like 'at least you had him for a while some people aren't that lucky ' That is true BUT does not invalidate my loss. What I am trying to say is I agree with you and the lessons you learned!! I feel seen and heard even though I don't know you personally. I wanted to Thank You for that. Best Wishes for your future ❤️ Michaela

[@cheryleann6394]

Loss is loss, weather thru death or breakup, it's still devastating. Nobody is lucky going thru it unless it makes them stronger and wiser. And in that case it's not luck, it's learning and growing. Great Vlog!

[@sianturner93]

Carrie you are a fabulous human being and thank you for sharing your life with us it is a huge priverlidge to feel that I know you and I see the joy and hope you give your corner of the weird wide web. i know I am not the only person whos life you have changed in a positive way thank you for being you and the big sister we have always needed xx

[@londongirl2768]

Just moved away from home for the first time, it’s about to be a year of life lessons for me! Thanks for sharing yours to kick it all off

[@TroyKristoffer]

My therapist taught me that comparing my experience/life to someone else's is dangerous and destructive. Usually this is in the context of achievements and perceived quality of life, but it also applies to how someone "should" handle a breakup. If you let someone else's breakup experience decide whether your experience is important or valid, it's still comparing yours to theirs and you're living your life by someone else's rules. I'm glad you made it through and found happiness on the other side.

[@marabanara]

Heartbreak is heartbreak. No matter how famous you are! I’m glad you’re well. I admire you very much- and I doubt you’ll ever read this, considering how popular you are and how many comments there are. I’m so glad you’re surrounded by good friends and loving family.

[@rheetu]

I'm honestly happy you've managed to turn such shitty life events into some more positive life lessons. I've been watching your videos since ~2013 and now realize that's almost 10 years. I'm also turning 30 next year and there have been many struggles, many heartbreaks and sadness, but we somehow push through and grow as people. Hoping that there will be more happy times in the future for all of us.

[@kimberlywatson6144]

Being comfortable in your own skin and living in your truth is so empowering! Take the time to be proud of yourself and the journey. Thank you for sharing with your fans!

[@ariana317]

I've been following you since I was 13 and I am now 23, these kinds of videos have truly helped me grow into the person I am today ❤ thank you and so so proud of you

[@lucy2164]

I can’t stop watching this video. You are a breath of fresh air. Your face when you talk about Joel literally is adorable and the happiness shines through. You make making video look so easy. I have no words to express how I feel about this video. It is beautiful in every way and I am bursting with all kinds of happiness. Your feelings are valid and Real and I am so glad you shared this with us all. You are a wonderful person and I wish you all the happiness in every way. Please don’t stop singing and writing because it brings us as much happiness to us as you enjoy doing it. Hope that the rest of 2022 and 2023 is your year. Ps: you are famous and are on the alphabet. 😉 ❤

[@stephbarry8971]

Life lesson- Marry someone who knows who your favourite people are, and surprises you with a weekend in Edinburgh culminating in tickets to see one of said favourite humans on the last day of her tour 😉 that is when u know, u got a good egg. Someone who after almost 20 years together, still wants to see your excited face 😄 and know they made you feel that happy 😊 I'm glad u have someone who gets what a ray of light u are in an often dark world. Keep shining Carrie ✨️ someone who is worth u, glows and grows with u 🧡

[@aghi6783]

Carrie, I just wanted to thank you so much for this video. I'm sixteen and lately I've been struggling to find people who really and heartfully care about me and my well-being, and when you spoke about the fact that there are people who don't want to see you happy I felt less alone. I hope you'll keep posting and keep sharing sparks of your life with us, I really wish you the best :)

[@emily-janeboustead6084]

This makes my heart happy! I’m only just beginning my 20’s (21) and you, Carrie, have been my honorary big sister since I was around 14, and I love having an online big sister! You make the bad days brighter and make bright days sunnier! Thank you Carrie xxxxx

[@mellindART]

I've missed you! You've grown up so much since I last watched your videos. I'm thankful that you're you and that you're still here!