I hope the new year finds you happy & healthy. I absolutely love new years... even though it's technically just another day, I love the idea of a fresh start. A clean slate. Prior to 2011 I made the typical resolutions that one rarely keeps... exercise more, eat healthy, stop cussing (I'm just being honest), etc. At the beginning of 2011 I decided to treat my resolutions as goals. Have you ever looked at the definition of resolution? If not, it's a "firm decision to do or not do something". I have a grease board in my studio space that I see everyday, so I wrote my goals on there:
1. Read. I always have a million projects going at once. I work about 25 hours a week at a flooring store, paint, and do freelance interior design. I got in the really bad habit of turning on the t.v. at night just to do something mindless before falling asleep. I realized that I was getting dumber by the day... not only do I watch t.v., but I watch the likes of Keeping up with the Kardashians and any celebrity gossip show. So, I started reading at night. I usually get less than 30 minutes in before I fall asleep, so it takes me forever to read a book, but this has really enriched my life.
2. Get one art licensing job. Two years ago I didn't even know art licensing existed, but I have been fortunate to learn about this through my good friend- the super talented Genevieve Gail. This is the accomplishment that I am most excited about. Only two weeks in to 2011 a company licensed several of my pieces and they'll be in the Atlanta gift mart this month. So exciting!
3. Tree art show. I've had an idea about a show I've wanted to do on trees forever now. I got a good start on it last year, but never completed. SO... this one rolled over into 2012. I hope to get this one checked off by April.
4. Get a baby. I learned that this one was out of my control, but I still like to have it on the list. And I will until I can check it off. As most of you know, trying to have a baby has been the main theme of my life since the end of 2008. Two full years of infertility, a lot of tears, and a lot of money led Trent & I to the decision of adoption last year. The adoption process hasn't been much easier than the infertility was. After lots of paperwork, a lot more tears, and more money we know we're exactly where God wants us. Once I surrendered to that, life has really started to make more sense. I have a quote posted on my cork board that helps me to refocus when I get frustrated with this time in my life:
"Be patient to all that is unsolved in your heart & try to love the questions themselves."
- Rainer Maria Rilke
I stopped blogging last year because it kind of stressed me out. I've now realized that it's a good way to hold myself accountable. It really helps me keep track of how much I'm painting, which is ultimately what I want to do full-time one day. So, here's the 2012 resolution list:
- Blog 1x a week (so put me back on your blog list!)
- Get an art agent (I've realized that I'm not motivated to do the business end of licensing, so I believe this is going to be the best route for me in pursuit of full-time art)
- Read more.... I'm putting together a list of books for the year, so let me know if you have any favorites.
- Do yoga or run 2x a week. I had to throw in an exercise one because my lack of it has gotten out of hand.
- Tree art show
- Get a baby :)
I pray that I learn as much about life & love in 2012 as I did in 2011. I pray that I can stay focused, be deliberate in all my actions, and add more joy (despite my circumstances) to this world. Lord knows the world needs more joy. And my one piece of advice for you this year.... read The 4:8 Principle:
It will change your life. I promise.
