I've never been much a fan of the whole New Year's "resolutions" trend. Something about the word resolutions lends itself to negativity. Like it's such a horrible thing to give up smoking, drop a few pounds, work harder, achieve goals that you have to be "resolute" about it. That makes it sound like such a chore, doesn't it? And it doesn't have to be! Nope. I much prefer the phrase "setting intentions". It has a happier ring to it, don't you think? And lately, all across social media, I've been seeing posts regarding your intention-setting word for 2017. Mine is SIMPLIFY. And yes, to those who follow me on Facebook, this means I will not be buying new metal clay supplies this year, new planners, batches of cabochons and beads. Why? Because there are still oodles of things I have yet to discover with wire, and I think I owe it to myself take that journey further. I have pounds of wire still sitting here, still unused through all of 2016, and I can't wait to get started with it! What is your word for 2017? "The new year stands before us, like a chapter in a book, waiting to be written. We can help write that story by setting goals." - Melody Beattie As well all know, 2016 had it's fair share of disappointments and challenges, many of which seemed to be expressed world wide. But it was also full of inspiration, successes and enjoyment of the little things in life that make life really worth living. I want to thank you all for being part of that with me, for sharing in my journey, supporting my craft and, as a result of that, supporting my family! I made some of my favorite pieces this year that I'm happy to say have all found their forever homes where I hope they are as loved as they were while I created them. I enjoyed time with my photography and got to shoot senior photos.... and lots and lots of cat photos, much to the chagrin of my pets. I started an additional blog to discuss spirituality and pulled out my art supplies for the first time in what seemed like forever! And I've made some amazing connections through my business and hobbies that I will always cherish. Thank you.
Thank you for being there. I hope to see you in 2017. Happy New Year, everyone! And happy weaving! Nicole
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Can you believe 2016 is almost rounding to a close? And what a crazy year it's been!
I've been a little quiet in the blog-o-sphere while some personal passion projects occupy my time, but I'm hoping to get back into the swing of things with my "This Week in Words" posts... a casual look into the world of a wire wrapper. So definitely expect to see more of those in the coming weeks. Though, I'll admit, there may be a few "This Month in Words" when I forget to post regularly! Still, writing is a joy, and I'm making a promise to myself to do more of what makes me happy. And that's the gist of it, right? Doing what makes us happy? I've allowed some of my most favorite past-times to wade into the deep end of the pool and slowly struggle for footing, and it's time I threw a life vest its way. Sketching, poetry and fiction will all make new appearances in 2017, hopefully regularly, though photography is (and has been) a pleasant constant. Wire wrapping is always a joy, and I'm looking forward to experimenting with new techniques in the days to come. I'm learning to worry less about "getting it right" and more about "getting it done", because the learning is in the doing. I'm reminded of the parable from Art and Fear:
So, I'm trying not to drown myself in the details. The worry and stress comes from that, don't they? And simplifying my life is the goal for 2017, reducing stress, learning to enjoy the "doing" without thought to the "result".
Also, because the end of the year has taken its toll, on a personal level, I've had to postpone the "Finish It!" contest scheduled for November. At first I'd considered moving it to December, but that seemed an undertaking best suited until after the holidays. I have three tentatively scheduled for 2017: February, June and October. So keep an eye out for those. If you aren't already subscribed to my newsletter, please feel free to do so, as I'll make announcements for contests and giveaways through the newsletter and social media platforms. You can find the subscribe form in the right side bar! I've got a few wire wrapping projects planned for 2017 that are still in their infancy... just vague ideas floating around in the mental jumble, so more announcements will be made soon as ideas come to fruition and I get them all sussed out in my head. But one is a video series and the other is a PDF series, both of which have me quite excited.... even now, while they are both still incorporeal ideas. I'm also hoping to have the means (and space) to offer local workshops, here in Michigan, in the 2017 year, though likely late in the year. So I think December is shaping up to be a month of ideas and planning! Keep your fingers crossed things come together for these projects smoothly! And that's really it for now... just a small ramble, mostly to get my fingers moving on a keyboard, which is an act and art I've missed of late, and keep you all in the know. Until next time, happy weaving! Nicole
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