{Reflecting on 2022}

It may be a bit early for an end of the year wrap-up, but two significant events occurred this week:

1. I officially closed my Ghost Rose shop on Etsy

2. I deleted my Facebook and both Instagram accounts

For a long time, I grappled with the pros and cons of keeping both social media and my shop. Maybe if I just limited my usage? But...I know myself. Eventually, no matter how noble my efforts, I always go back to mindless scrolling and a continued production of items that will never sell. I don't say this to be negative; just practical.

The truth is...I'm excited. I am eager for the future of my projects. Not only art, but also writing and music. Without distractions of showing final "products," I feel free to create just for me again. I am absolutely going to miss sharing my process, but I'm hoping that I can turn this blog and my website into a more updated and free space that explores a more limitless platform.

2022 was one of the best years of my life. There were moments of difficulty and frustration, but it may be the first time in my life where I truly felt settled. Tethered, almost. I started my new job at the library in January and I quickly made myself at home with the staff and patrons. I soon realized I wanted to further my career there. Quicker than I thought possible, I was able to work my way up into a new department, work more hours, and obtain more skills and responsibilities. Though it is a part time position, I bring a lot of my "work" home with me....and by work, I mean reading. Lots and lots of reading. So much, in fact, that I have read over 100 books this year. Something I never thought possible.

I do feel proud of the creative work I managed to sneak into my life as well. Though it's not a significant amount, I did see growth as a business owner and as an artist. It made me thirsty for more creative pursuits, which is quite the opposite of last year. By the end of last year, I suffered from a deep burn out that took a long time to recover from, mostly because it took so long to identify what was going on.

So as we approach the end of 2022, I can reflect with a smile on my face. I feel almost a vibration of things in motion. Whether they span out further than my small basement studio and stretch out to others, I don't really know. For the first time in my life, I am just enjoying the moment. I am settling into each day with a feeling of accomplishment that I can just stay here and not think about 'next.'

I have a million goals as usual, it wouldn't be me without that. But if I just stay right where I am, I'm perfectly content.

If you are here, thank you for following me on this journey. I hope to continue to improve and share what I have learned. <3