Here we are, at the start of a new year: 2021. It has been ushered in with a lot of drama, coming off the heels of the tumultuous year before. A pandemic, economic shut-downs, political unrest and staying home more than we thought we would. Masked smiles and six feet apart. Empty shelves and curbside pickups. Outdoor gatherings and learning how to Zoom: the virtual world has become a part of ours, now.
Many have lost loved ones, their jobs, businesses, and hope that things will ever return to normal again. It has indeed been a challenging year. My heart goes out to the front line workers in the medical field. I cannot imagine how difficult the days have been for all of you. You are truly courageous and very brave. Thank you so much.
I think of parents and teachers, around the world, who have had to work extra hard to make sure kids are getting their education, despite the limited time in a physical classroom. Families have had to figure out how to be together, all day, in the same house while working and going to school. Our resolve has been tested...our patience, exercised. And all the kids who cannot see their friends as much as they wish. I think its doubly-hard on younger kids, still learning to form those friendships. I've seen it here at home, too.
Yes...tell me something I don't already know, right? It is remarkable to experience a year that has brought hardship to all of us, but in different ways. I won't go as far to say we are all in the same boat, because we're not. But we have the capacity to feel loss, extend empathy and practice gratitude. These are the things that bring us together.
Sometimes life surprises us. I never thought I would survive distance learning with my kids, but here we are. I can see the light at the end of the tunnel, as plans are in place to bring the kids back to some form of in-person learning. On the flipside, I think companies, with employees who can work-from-home, have realized how valuable this arrangement can be. We've proven that it can be done. And so maybe there will be less traffic on that morning commute, for those who do have to drive into work? Sounds like a win-win situation.
There have been some silver linings within the last year. Who would've thought that one could get so many house projects done in a season? Staying home has its benefits. More people home means more thoughts about one's yard. I stayed busy with garden maintenance and landscape design. It was a good year, overall. Very grateful for having made the switch from hand-drawings to design software. The timing was providential.
One of the best surprises came at the end of the year. I start gearing up for winter arrangements in November and finish just before Christmas. Usually, its a handful of clients who have me come to their homes and do custom design work. I really enjoy this part of my business. It is so satisfying to create something unique that fits the client in mind. The year before last, I started designing a few small/med. size arrangements, which sold fairly well. Thanks to social media, and our supportive Northfield community, that idea literally snow-balled this season. I could hardly keep up as I found myself buried under an avalanche of interest. I was overwhelmed and grateful...energized and exhausted, all at the same time!
When it comes to making art, you can't rush it but you do have to keep showing up. Like anything, being present and putting in the time is a huge part of having success. I think life is that way, as well. Keep showing up, doing what you do well, and good things will eventually happen. As we do what we do, it brings good to those around us, too. That, perhaps, is the best gift of all.
Thank you, wonderful clients and friends. You have brought me so much joy! Thankful to God for each one of you...
Cheers :)
LP
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