Happy New Year everyone!

I took the past holiday season to think about what I wanted my life to look like. Where I wanted to go, what I wanted to create and how I wanted to lead my life.

I have to do my own soul searching, I have to make myself become quiet, I have to ask questions and seek inspiration.

I am older and wiser.  I want the rest of my life to be lived with intentions and grace.

First and foremost, I am more connected to God.  I have been a firm believer in God most of my life and have depended on Him on so many levels. I have seen miracles, had promises delivered, prayers answered and some not answered.  The ones that were not answered, lessons were learned.  I am being more grateful and thankful for all the blessing that I do have.  I do not take one thing or one person in my life for granted.

Secondly, I am being myself.  I do not require fancy, fictitious or ungenuine.  I love the simple life.  I love to cook dinner, sit on the porch at sunset, take a walk in the woods or watch a good movie on TV. I need my family, their laughter, jokes and love. I need my friends.  I would not be where I am without them. I need my dog, Tess and her ever present ball.

Third, I am excited about my pottery business.  I am getting lots of sales, orders and great reviews. This makes me tremendously happy.  It is something that I have always wanted to do, and now I have the space and time I need to make this dream come true.

I am not professionally trained, nor do I have all the equipment of a big studio. Some may see it as a hobby or something to occupy my time, but it is not.  It is my profession.  I can look people in the eye and say that I am an artist and be proud of that fact.  My creations are wonky, imperfect and whimsical. Just the way I like it.

I have also come to realize that this city born and raised girl is a rancher. I love raising cattle!  I love the fact that they all have names and their own personalities. I love that we take such good care of them and provide the best.  Never in my wildest dreams as a child, did I think I would be knee deep in muck, or freezing rain or 100 plus degree heat, feeding huge animals that depend on us daily.  It is truly the best job ever.  (Not many vacations, but just look at this face!)

I have concluded that people need each other.  That we should be kind to each other and not take others for granted.  To do our best, think before we speak, to respect each other’s opinions and beliefs. But to also fight for our convictions with honor and dignity.

During the last few weeks of my pondering and reflection,  I have learned that if I discussed my fears and concerns, that does not make me weak.  I have learned that if I am quiet, I am not being withdrawn.  I have learned that the people who truly love you, will always love you.

I am not the same this year as I was last year.  I am a better version of me.  I am trusting in God to lead the way.  I am the salt and the light of the world.

I have this quote written down forever and  I still refer to it often.  At this new year, it is so fitting:

“Don’t ever mistake my silence for ignorance, my calmness for acceptance and my kindness for weakness.”

“Be yourself, everyone else is taken.” Oscar Wilde

xoxo,

Cindy

Isaiah 40:31