2016 is the year I became a mother-Jackie may have been born in 2015 but this was the year of lessons and finding a person I didn't even know existed inside of me.
I needed to meet her.
I became much more than Jackie's Mama. I love being her mother more than anything. I also love that in becoming her Mama I also found that I am more determined than ever in the pursuit of my passions with art. I found that I am more joyful in everyday things (Jackie sure helps this one). I found that I am stronger in my faith-I pray so much more and trust in His timing and purpose for me. I found that I am more patient and realistic about MY time as well. I need to give it to myself to grow and reach my goals, they could take years and that is OK. I also respect my time and that pieces can't always be finished in 2 weeks while working a day job and that is OK too.
2017 will be a year of pushing the plans I already have into motion. It will be a year of new challenges and professional growth. It will be a year I take my health more seriously. My diet will be getting an overhaul-not 100% Paleo like before though. I learned my limits and tolerances the last time I had to do it so it should be more manageable this time around. This is also the year in which I choose joy and love as much as possible. I will make the choice to do something outside of the routines we have to breath fresh life into relationships. I want to celebrate the love in my marriage with Tim and strengthen our partnership as we continue our journey together as parents.
I could go on and on with my optimism for 2017.
I gave myself 7 resolutions this year to try to put it into focus.
2017 Resolutions
1. Say the compliments I think in my head for people out loud to them. It may make a difference to that person. The symbol of a Starfish is extremely special to me and the Starfish Story's mantra of "It made a difference to that one" is something I try to live by.
2. Teach Art Classes-this plan is already in the works and I can't wait to share more when the schedules are available!
3. Don't discount or give my work away. I don't give myself near enough credit for my time and effort. I still love to give portraits as birthday or holiday gifts, but no more favors because they are friends and family. My Mom gets discounted or free pieces because she adds to my art supply stash on a regular basis.
4. Have more of an online presence-Redbubble, Etsy, and Instagram are my big 3 to build up.
5. Floss-I have horrible, cavity prone teeth. I have already lost 1 to a failed root canal. I shell out hundreds of dollars a year in dental work and it is crazy. The anxiety leaves me a wreck for days! So I have to give myself some tough love. I should be flossing, but lets be honest, a lot of people don't. It is time to change that!
Here is my daily reminder on my bathroom mirror:
6. Travel! I will be taking baby Jackie on her first flight and trip to AZ to see her Great Grandma Jackie in February! I'm so excited and nervous about the flights but I have backup with my Mom and sister going too.
7. Chalk Festivals-I want to do 3 this year. I will be returning to Sweet Chalk Fest this year in July. Travel may be required for others outside of NY. I am waiting for applications to open up and see which ones I will be going to. If I get my way I get to spend time with my friend, Julie! She is a chalk festival fan and a veteran to the "Jess Mess" that I am.
I will be blogging soon about the Holiday Shopping with Heart Challenge results and recent Custom Pieces once they have all been gifted by the end of January. Stay tuned!
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