in sum

Yep, this is one of those "here's how my year was" posts. But I like posts like this, because when you look back on an entire year, things become pieced together in a way that the whole become greater than the sum.

This year wasn't full of epic adventures, major changes or cool events. This year was not very exciting or fun. However, that doesn't mean this year wasn't important.

Basically, all I did this year was work and learn and work and learn. I was so busy working and learning that I gained 20 pounds. But in all that working and learning, I grew in some important ways:
-I learned how to work better with children.
-I discovered in myself an ability to teach and give wisdom and knowledge to others that I didn't know I had.
-My heart grew; I developed the ability to better see the value in everyone and love people for who they are.
-I came to a better understanding of disabilities and what they really mean.
-I learned more about the type of life I want my family to have someday.
-I learned what being poor really is, and how I am not as poor as I thought I was.
-I learned that I am a better artist than I thought I was.
-I learned just how legitimate depression is in affecting your life.
-I learned how to use the bus system.
-I learned how to be great at cleaning.
-I realized how great it is to have an education
-I realized that there is a profound joy in simple, sincere work.
-I came to understand the importance of peace and quiet.
-I developed the skill of writing Haikus.
-Discovered my love for teaching art to children, art therapy, and the general connections between children and art that are so important and amazing.

So, no, my year wasn't full of cool vacations, parties, friendships, or glamorous events, but through my classes at school, my internship, and my job I learned and experienced many new things that gave me better insight and knowledge on the important, everyday things in life.

That being said, I did have a few exciting things happen:
-I did my first real makeup gig for a music video! "Sadder" by Nik Day. (I did the clown and Nik's makeup)
-My sister Alyssa got married, and both the wedding ceremony and the reception were wonderful
-I went camping over Labor Day weekend and it was beautiful! And I was able to make it to the Swiss Days festival as part of the trip!
-One of my best friends, Kim, got married and I was a bridesmaid. Also a wonderful day.
-I went to the Renaissance Fair dressed up with awesome fantasy makeup.
-I discovered some new favorite music.
-I became addicted to Pinterest. (Me and thousands of others)
-I organized a second craft fair.
-I went to Craft Lake City, which was awesome.
-Spent a relaxing weekend at Bear Lake with the in-laws.
-HP 7.2 midnight showing!
-Worked with countless children throughout the year and loved it.

So that was my year. I feel fortunate to have had all of these experiences. It wasn't an easy year, but it was important.