Sometimes despite one’s best efforts, the spirit of art and creation must take a back seat to the business of life. That has been the theme of 2014 for me. Not-so-secretly this year I’ve wished for a life-size Swiffer Sweeper that didn’t just draw away dust from floors, but could suck the dust and grime out of all of life’s nooks and crannies— one sweep and you have a refreshed perspective and renewed energy. In reality, it’s a longer process, though thoroughly satisfying!

In a year of complications, one can choose to pout or perk. I’ve chosen the latter. I’ve made great strides on the house fixer-uppering, took a couple college courses, reconnected some sadly neglected friendships, got the most from the veggie garden, and have taken on a number of marketing and branding projects to help out business owner friends, and critics and curmudgeons that gnawed at my confidence are gone and replaced with people equally excited about the skills and talents I have to offer the world.   I’m recharged…I’m excited… I’m just a bit overwhelmed.