Happy New Year

I can't believe another year is drawing to a close. Time to erase the slate and get ready for new opportunities,very exciting!

Here is how 2005 looked for me as far as work.

* Maintained a blog for one year where I have opened up and shared my journey. This in turn has resulted in an article for, "Children's Writers & Illustrators Market Book 2007" about blogging.

* Illustrated a book dear to my heart that is distributed in hospitals. "Not Afraid of Needles!"

* Found an interested NY literary agent for a board book that I have written and illustrated (Emma Felt). Fingers crossed that she finds a home this year!

* Spent 2005 with an educational rep that resulted in some near misses. Unfortunately, near misses aren't good enough so we have parted ways amicably. It was a great experience and it has resulted in contacts that I can continue to pursue on my own.

*Took Anastasia's writing course to learn more about writing for children.

* Got an assignment right before Christmas for a 4 page b&w take home book due in the New Year.

* Got an assignment from a publisher that was on my dream list...Ladybug Magazine!!!

* Most importantly the year has ended with me feeling very comfortable in my own skin and I'm not questioning my work or where I fit. This is a major achievement for myself and I can't even tell you when it happened. Ha! Yes I can if I'm honest. When I got the call from Ladybug. It was a major validation for me and what I do.

But really it wasn't just that. The last image I did of the cows for my upcoming promotion was probably the first time I actually enjoyed myself as I worked. I have reached a benchmark. I remember reading an article by cyd moore that speaks about it. In it she says,

"Begin to let go. Live and LOVE what you do. Period. Stay with it. One day, you will find your inspiration. You will give in to that perfect moment, and you will see that you are no longer trying to do it, but that you are doing it...effortlessly. When that happens, embrace it...you are an artist at that moment."

Every year I feel like there is a theme for the year that lies ahead. For 2005 the theme was "No Limits!". I wanted to be open to opportunities and soar. I never would have dreamed that a move to another state was coming to pass. Talk about being open to new opportunities!

My theme for 2006 is, "Be still, be quiet. Listen."

For the first time in 6 years of pursuing children's illustration, I have a confidence that I've never experienced and a knowing that I'm on the right track. But I need to relax, savor the journey and enjoy it. I need to take the time to listen to what my instincts are telling me and most importantly trust and not second guess every move I make. I waste so much energy this way. Not this year.

Here's wishing you all a wonderful 2006. I look forward to sharing the highs and lows with you again this year. I hope your dreams come true, and that you accomplish you goals with great success. Most importantly, when the obstacles come ...and they will, I wish you the strength to keep going and make the most of every situation.

Happy New Year!

Comments

[laura]

Health, Happiness and Prosperity for you in 2006!!

I loooooooove this illustration! It is just adorable Roz!

[Snowbear]

Happy New Year, Hedge!
My theme for the past year was "The year of Play" and I've played well.
I haven't sat to think about what the New Year Holds for me or what it's theme will be--I guess I'll leave that for tomorrow's project.
Meanwhile, Be still, be quiet and listen--I'm talking to you.Missy.
:-)

[Holly]

It all sounds wonderful. I like the part about being still and listening. Well done. Here is to a another successful year! Cheers!

[Anastasia]

I need to take the time to listen to what my instincts are telling me and most importantly trust and not second guess every move I make.

What a WONDERFUL resolution!

[wynlen]

Happy new year Roz! It's great to hear about your accomplishments in 2005, and I'm looking forward to see what creative projects comes your way this year.

[Dee]

Happy New Year! It's so great to see you full of confidence and zeal! I can't wait for myself to get to that point. :) (I'm working on it!) Thanks for all the kind comments, and nice suggestions. I can't wait to read your article on blogging.

[patricia]

Great resolution! The funny thing is I'm working on your 2005 resolution for this year. I feel I will have a good 'coming out' year with my work. We shall see!

I've visited your blog a few times but never commented. I guess the new year is a good time as any!

[Shano]

Wow! You had an exciting 2005! Here's to continued success with your illos. I wish you all the best. Can't wait to see what this year brings for you. (And may your deadlines be stress-free.)

[Garth]

Wonderful comments, Roz. Good luck to you this year, and may your dreams keep turning into reality!