Just got my latest HbA1c. 42, same as 2 years ago. I hate waiting for these results, as I only have one a year. It has also been a stressful year, ending a long term relationship and other things going on.
I think what helped me was, even at the most difficult times, I tried to keep my food diary going (I find it keeps you honest), and I tried to keep to no more than 150g of carbs a day.
Well done, I know what you mean about a tough year and what helped me too was keeping my diary and being honest, once again well done on keeping your excellent control