Sunday, December 29, 2013

2013 WOW

Maybe it's more prevalent in the art world, but it makes sense no matter what.  That is, to reflect on your goals and accomplishments for the year.  I've not been one to size things up this way, having had a career that just seemed to magically push me to achieve all the time.  Maybe now when the job is not so important, it is time to pull together the "it's all about me" list and say to yourself, "WOW, I did that. . . ."     

My very humble art goals this year have been all about karma, destiny, providence or something -- it has all come together!   Started out with a perfectly-timed workshop with Carol Marine in January, followed by a few months of being out of work (consultant woes), and a few personal thoughts (okay, the ones you won't tell anyone about) to make art a priority.  I won't bore you with the details, but I entered twice as many shows as my "stretch-goal", painted 10 times more paintings than I ever thought I would, sold a bunch of them, started a blog of all things, and sold in a gallery!  Mind-blowing to me.  Could not have done it without support from my husband, friends, family, and art lovers.

It is delightful to have new goals outside of my day-job and that's finally happening.  Who knows where it will go next.  Stay tuned, I've got some ideas. . . .

This is a collage of my paintings from this year (the good, bad, ugly and well yes great).  When I see it all at once, it's bigger than I'd ever imagined.  Just like life!



Think about the end of the year, get excited about the great one to start, and how you want to influence your own destiny.   Climb aboard!

Recently, I read that the happiest people are the ones that have more than they expect.  Think about that for a few minutes.   Are your expectations so high, you're not happy?  Hmmmm. . . .  maybe more realistic ones would make you happier. 

Thanks for reading my blog and letting me delight in reflecting on this year.  I cannot tell you enough how your support keeps me going and how much I appreciate it.  I wish you a New Year full of adventure, happiness and fun!

Johnna