Etcetera: A look back at 2012, and looking forward to 2013

It is hard to believe that we are standing on the threshold of a brand new year! As I looked back on my photos from this past year, it was so great to see all that has been experienced and accomplished in the months of 2012.I started out the year full steam ahead, with book projects and photo shoots taking up the entire months of January, February, March and April. Then came the editing, proofing, and decision making. I cannot even tell you how much I learned about myself during this project. It was so mentally and physically challenging at times....that it felt overwhelming....and then there were the times of sheer joy and pleasure at the thought of what I was working towards. I can honestly say that I enjoyed all of it....even the stretching and the growing that took place in my life during this entire project. Working with the people at Chronicle Books could not have been any better, and they are the best in the industry. I continue to be humbled by the fact that they chose me to write a book for them.Then there was the new location for Knack that became available in June...and then a move in July! It happened fast, and I was not expecting to move the shop this year, but as you all have seen....11 Lois Ave. could not be more perfect for Knack and I am tickled from the top of my head to the bottom of my toes every time I turn the corner and pull in the parking lot! This location is the space of my dreams.....it is so special......it is Knack's home.  Moving is always a challenging task and it took me a bit to get all settled in and caught up......but the timing was so perfect and once again I stand amazed at God's plan. Every single thing I need I have at my fingertips.....and more...and that just can't be explained any other way than extraordinary! There are some very exciting things on the horizon, both known ....in the works....and unknown......and I am excited about all of it. I am also very excited to move Knack forward into more than furniture.The Fall was full of 5 year anniversary parties, grand opening, Open Studios, jumping back into First Fridays, ordering product, setting up the shop and lots of furniture painting! It has been very full my friends....very full indeed.I love a fresh start, and January 1 is always a great day for me. I have already been doing a lot of thinking and reflection on what I want to accomplish this year both with Knack and within myself as well. I am not a big "resolution" girl....but I do sit down and make a list of goals for the year....then I throw in a couple of "pie in the sky" dreams {just for fun!}.....and also where I want to grow and improve as a mother, wife, and friend. I always want to be open to change and learning new things.Personally, as I move into this new year I want to continue to move towards authenticity. There are three words that I have written down and  want to have running through my head daily......authenticity, intentionality, and courage. Authenticity in life for me means not holding back truth, being transparent and open in a loving way, keeping the "pleaser" inside me in check, and being okay with the fallout. Intentionality for me means making very purposeful choices, surrounding myself with people who will challenge me, and push me to be better...loving my friends and family hard......waking up every day with purpose.....living life on purpose. Then, there comes the courage word. I need courage to live out the first two words!! I want the courage to be humble when I am wrong, the courage to change directions if needed, the courage to be honest with others even at the risk of being injured myself, the courage to face fear with confidence, the courage to let go, the courage to live out a life of authenticity.I hope that each one of you who reads this will take time over the next couple of weeks to make plans for the new year. Fun plans, maybe plans, and plans to change and be better than you are right now.  I hope that you will spend time with those you love, and love them unconditionally. Family and close friends are a gift, and the most important investment in this life.Merry Christmas!{ I will be taking time off for Christmas and will see you back here January 7th!}xo,Barb