Some favorite 2014 moments from Instagram @jackietara

It’s been a little while since I’ve written a blog post, but I suppose that’s what the holidays can do to you. I am blessed in having most of my immediate family close by, but during the holiday season that translates into frequent day trips to spend time and have meals with my parents and grandparents. I didn’t plan my 2-week long break well, because now that all of the family activities are over, I’m sitting home alone having interpersonal interaction withdrawal. I’m one of those souls who needs down time every once in a while to recharge, but the process of getting to that I’m-happy-to-be-by-myself state is a rough one. Shoot me, I’m a people pleasing people person.

Now that I have finally reached that happy place, I want to share some reflections of 2014 rather than a typical style post. I would be lying if I said that 2014 was a great year, but some really good things did come out of it (much to my surprise and delight). 2014 was a year of change: a new demanding role at work; my sister moving across the world; a break up; and my brother growing up practically at the speed of light. Out of these momentous changes, however, I did find a strength within myself that I didn’t event know existed, along with these things:

The confidence to try a new workout routine and stick with it long enough to see results, both internal and external

Having time to rediscover my love of painting

A curious desire to learn more about brewing coffee at home (my new favorite hobbie!)

The unconditional love and support of my amazing friends, and the willingness to humbly support them in return

A little room in my heart for my new and amazing beau

An opportunity to work with my talented photographer friends, Paul B. Jones and Traci J. Brooks, who’s photos appear here often

An openness to meeting and working with new colleagues and friends

The appreciation for everyday things and neighborhood treasures

And a refreshed sense of wonder and excitement for what is next

The possibilities are endless, and I haven’t felt that way in a long time. Thank you for reading Jackietara and supporting this blog as I continue to learn and grow. Cheers, to the closing of this year’s chapter in each of our lives, and to the beginning of a bright and new year.

Jackietara