Newcastle are closing out the year with tonight's Boxing Day clash at Manchester United.
Howe said, "The last 12 months, I think, as a whole have been unbelievable for us because we finally won a trophy, and when I came here, that was the big aim – after staying in the league – to try to win a trophy.
"Of course, then you look at Champions League qualification, and we're in the middle of that and it's a great experience again to be in the Champions League and we're desperate to stay in the competition.
"Overall, sometimes it's really good to take that bird's eye view of everything. You'd say it's been a great 12 months."
Looking at tonight's game Howe said: "Statistically, they're a lot stronger than last year. They've seen big improvements in their general performances. They've been competitive and, attacking wise, they have some big threats.
"I think it'll be a really good game, a tough game, for us and a good opportunity at Christmas to enjoy the magnitude of these games. The atmosphere will be special but haven't played them previously, I think we expect a slightly different Man United."