2023 Reflection

Hello Readers, long time no post! While counting down the hours to the new year, I figured now would be a great time to reflect on the past year and put together a short recap of what I consider to be my 2023 highlights.

The standout event of the year for me was, without a doubt, my move to a new state. It was a journey full of excitement and adventure that naturally took up a lot of time and energy. It’s a little funny to me, remembering how at the beginning of the year I was so confident I was going to be able to stick to a consistent drawing schedule even during the move. Beginning-of-the-year me was still filled with the optimism of someone who hadn’t yet spent a week packing her 1000th cardboard box.

Needless to stay, there were many times where I struggled to stay focused and get back into the groove of creating. I realized I may have placed too much self-worth in producing artwork, so when I didn’t, I battled tough self-talk. It’s a constant struggle to find the right life balance, but I have so much to be thankful for, and I’m learning to be kinder to myself. In 2024, my number one priority is creating. Here are some highlights from this year:

• Moving to Oregon! (The most epic road trip I’ll probably ever do for a while…and thankful that our sun-loving pup has been adjusting to the new environment well)
• Weekend getaway to the Bay to celebrate my bro getting married!
• Got a one-page comic published in a Ladybug Magazine (my first children’s magazine illustration!)
• Signed with a new agent – I’m now represented by Andrea Morrison at Writers House!

As the new year approaches, I’m feeling energized and excited to work on my own stories. I don’t know what 2024 will bring, but I hope it’s a place that’s filled with discoveries, breakthroughs, and connection.

Signing off with some recent reads from the library that inspired me. (Note about this photo: While Blankets is available to check out at the library, I actually bought the book after attending a book event at my local bookstore, where I got to meet the creator, Craig Thompson in person!)

Happy New Year!