I can do hard things...Pandemic POV

I've spent the day reflecting back on the past two years. It's been one of those rabbit holes for me this morning. It all started when creating a post about my online studio, and got me thinking about God's faithfulness. I'm not trying to minimize the loss, pain and struggle it's been for me and so many others during this time, but I'm always contemplating the glass half full, and trying to take note of what God is doing and give proper praise and gratitude. So here's my ramble.

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At the beginning of 2019, I strongly felt God telling me to take my art and teaching online. Of course, I drug my feet, made all kinds of “I can’t figure out technology” and “I freak out on camera” excuses, but started doing a TON of research to just give it a try. Then 2020 hit, and I wished I would have been more obedient-but that’s how I roll-usually takes a shove to get me out the door. I started working with Sarina Correa-Creative Entrepreneur with The Social Divas amazing mastermind group, who guided and encouraged me. I pushed past the fear, stopped worrying about what other people would think, and got to work. I've poured in countless hours of creating, writing, filming, editing and promoting. It’s still a work in progress, and I’m learning by trail and error, but I’m proud of the work I’ve done there. I now have over 20 online courses, some that you can try out for free. You can take a tour HERE.

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Also as a part of this online endeavor, and investing a ton of time on all the social media platforms for insight and promotion, I have actually made some wonderful online friendships that have spilled over into my real life, and opened doors to wonderful growth opportunities, both personally and professionally. For example, I'm teaching this weekend with Stephanie Ackerman at the Creative Soul Retreat at the Whatever Craft House in Newton, Kansas. And because of instagram, I have the opportunity to work with Tamara Day of the Magnolia Network's  Bargain Mansions and have my artwork in her Growing Days Store. What a dream to pursue God's calling in our lives-His plan is always more than what we could ever ask or imagine for ourselves. 

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Pursing my "art career" this way has been time consuming, but it has allowed me to do what I love-create and encourage others. So what about everything else besides art? This pandemic has allowed me more time at home with family, and quality time with friends who make me the best version of myself. In the past two years, I have also gotten to: know my neighbors; take trips to Texas, Florida, California, Las Vegas, Branson, Kansas City, and Arizona; spent time hiking, biking and floating; made colorful bird houses with my family that we enjoy seeing everyday; started to organize and purge my home; learned to better prioritize and manage my time; learn lots of new things; read more good books; study the Bible in depth with a wonderful group of women; serve my family, school and community; and have more time for much needed daily quiet times. And, I've reminded myself that I can do hard things, even as a GenXer. So yes, I've have a lot of complaints about what cov*d has stolen from us, but I can't help remembering Genesis 50:20, "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good..." I see lots of good!