2008

This year really kicked me emotionally and physically so next year has to be better... Right?

Truthfully, I think that 2008 challenged me on a personal level more than most for all the things that kept taking place. We lost family members in a difficult week in the spring and stood by helplessly while one close to us struggled to regain basic control of the ability to speak. I was also spurred to take a close look at my own health and made some important changes at the suggestion of my doctor.

This year the home was a challenge and nature took its toll as wind tore at the most basic of needs. It is hard to describe our world without electricity until you have none. Then the simplest of tasks is virtually impossible. Hurricane Ike spread its wrath across our state and for weeks so many were without electricity.

Artistically, I put a great deal of thought into the work I do and began to go back to my roots to rediscover simple drawing. Having been a digital artist for several years, the ability to stretch a set of muscles I had not used in a long time was a joy. It has changed what I pack when I travel and what I choose to draw.

I also finished writing my first children's book and am in the process of finding a publisher. It was a major step for me to get it finished. I've already started to think about the next.

There were some great events this year too. My brother got married and the family gathered from across the globe for the celebration. It was also the first time my son had met many of his ants and uncles.

And I have to say that this Christmas was a special one for me. It was the first time I was able to share the traditions of the season with him in a meaningful way that he could understand. In that I am glad the best was saved for last.

As for the new year, I am encouraged. I am looking forward to prioritizing my art further and am learning how to "be an artist" (something for another post). I am also planning on making more art and, as a consequence, more blog posts!

So farewell 2008! Welcome 2009!