As we are at the end of this year, I've been reflecting back over the months, and I keep coming back to the same thought, of how much I have to be thankful for.
Our Family
Our family traveled and explored together this year, and I don't take that for granted. Our family is also growing with the addition of a son-in-law! Time together, whether it's a trip or an ordinary dinner, is the thing I most want to hold onto. Exploring new places and spending time together has a way of making a year feel full, and this one certainly did.
100 Paintings in 100 Days
I created 100 paintings in 100 days, and it affected me personally and my business in ways I didn't expect. I started it thinking it was about the paintings, and it turned out to be about so much more than that. It showed me what happens when you keep showing up for something small every single day, and I'm thankful I stuck with it. Some days it felt like a lot and some days it felt like a gift, and I wouldn't trade any of it now. I'm still thinking about everything it showed me, and I suspect I will be for a while.
Getting More Art Out Into the World
I licensed more art this year than I ever have before, and I also got to help so many other artists launch their websites and grow their businesses. That part means a great deal to me, because community over competition isn't just a phrase I like to say. It's such a good feeling to help other people get their art and products into the world. Also having my own artwork published in a creative magazine I've admired for years was a moment I'm so grateful for.
What I'd Love to Hear From You
None of this happened alone. My family, the artists I've gotten to work alongside, and you who reads along and cheers me on have all had a hand in what this year turned out to be, and I want to say thank you for that.
Looking back over a year like this reminds me that the everyday things are worth celebrating, long before the big moments arrive. What are you thankful for as this year winds down? It might be a trip, a person, a small habit that changed things for you, or a project you finally finished. I'd love to hear about it!
