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NEW PAINTING Anim

 

Anim, 24"x30", acrylic on panel, private collection (thank you!). Prints and other items featuring her likeness can be purchased here. Inquiries are always welcome. 

can you believe it's December?


I sure can't. 

Past Decembers were a blur. Back when I did commissioned portraiture (via PaintingaDogaDay.com), my holiday rush began as early as September 1st with a small pet portrait done daily up until mid December. Some days I would complete 2. By the time I got all the work shipped off, I had two weeks to focus on our own festivities which also included two of our children's birthdays. And I was utterly exhausted.

Last year was my first holiday in 20+ where I didn't have any commissioned portraits. While I missed the engagement with collectors and all the sweet little faces on my easel, I absolutely loved being able to whole heartedly focus on celebrating with my family for the entirety of the season. Being able to plan, anticipate and be fully present for all the little things leading up to the holiday was priceless. It was also bittersweet. 

This year is a little odd. It doesn't "feel" like my past Decembers in that I am still finding a new routine with regards to my work-life balance. We also are empty nesters, so much of the hustle has bustled off to other households. I am settling into this quieter phase with an open heart.

The holidays are not easy for everyone, for many different reasons. I have had my own share of challenging ones not merely related to job-related issues. Life is complicated and not always glittery.

Please know that if you are not up to the unrealistic expectations society places on this month of supposed merriment, you are not alone. Give yourself permission to feel what you are feeling without guilt or shame. And don't be afraid to say no if it means you will ultimately feel better as a result. 

The only person you should be concerned about disappointing is yourself.

Thanks so much for following along with - and supporting - my art journey, warmly, Kim
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