The Best Things of Late
It’s been a week since I’ve posted on here, but it’s not for lack of trying. I’m just exhausted, but it’s a good kind of exhausted. The kind of exhausted where you gave your day absolutely everything you could give. Your head hits the pillow, and you’re instantly asleep.
The good news is that there’s been a lot of noteworthy things that have happened in the last few days that are worth celebrating!
I finished my first batch of hand painted Christmas ornaments for Downtown Laurel’s Christmas Open House this past Sunday. It’s been a tradition of mine to sell them at Southern Antiques every year. This year’s design is super intricate and honestly, just took so much longer than usual. I was so tired every night, and I’m only able to do so many. I got done with 19 before Sunday, and I was well pleased. I dropped them off on my way back to Birmingham, and before I even got home, I got a text from a friend saying they were already sold out! I am so excited and grateful. That’s never happened before!
2. I wrote my first student leader guide for the student ministry last week. I’ve never been asked to write anything ministry-related, and it was so much fun. I felt really honored that Alison asked me to write about Daniel 6! Hopefully the kids will like it.
3. I finished this wedding bouquet commission, and it’s easily in my top 3 favorite paintings ever. I can just see how my style and technique has changed over the years. My work is heavily influenced by impressionistic artists like Monet (because they’re my favorite, duh.) I could see some Monet up in this one and I’m pumped about it.
4. I got to meet with my small group in Laurel, and they really are the highlight of my week. Shelley, Victoria, Laura and Cherie were my greatest church friends in high school and now they’re walking through life with me in this season. It’s been so sweet to reunite each time I’m in Laurel. Even if it is at the Alamo in the Sawmill Square Mall.
5. I got to interview and tour Gwen Deakle’s house in the historic district of Laurel. It’s a jaw-dropping home, full of character and prestige. Gwen’s a fantastic southern, classy woman with phenomenal taste and stories that I will never forget. I won’t give away too much, but she’s met the Queen of England. I about lost it.
6. I went to lunch with my Nano and my momma on Saturday, and I’m really thankful for those moments. I don’t get to see my Nano much but when I do, I cherish the time with her. She’s so funny and kind. She’s been working tirelessly on this questionnaire journal I got her for her birthday. It’ll be a gift for me to read her stories over and over!
7. I put up my new, flocked Christmas tree as soon as I got home to Birmingham on Sunday. It was time, and I needed it. I even got a new Queen Elizabeth ornament to match my young Elizabeth one from last year. Can you tell I’m obsessed? Just wait to you read my journal next week. ;)
