Wow, can you believe we are just days away from welcoming in the new year??

I cannot believe how quickly 2017 has flown by. If I had to pick one word to describe my 2017 experience, it would be LEARNING. Because I have learned so much this past year - about myself; about other people; about business; about the world. 2017 hasn't been without its challenges, but I can't look back and feel anything but grateful.

And speaking of grateful, I can't publish this end-of-year post without thanking all of you! Whether you've read my blog, purchased from my Etsy shop, clicked, commented, or simply offered encouragement - I appreciate you. Though I would be painting and drawing even if I had an audience of zero, getting to share my passion with others makes the experience that much sweeter.

As we close out this year, here are a few personal and professional highlights:

2017 Highlights

One year in business

I've been selling my artwork for just over a year now! There have certainly been stressful moments, but I don't think I've ever done anything so fulfilling. Sharing my work can be somewhat personal at times, and seeing people getting excited about it - I have no words to express the joy that brings me.

Bestselling art prints

My ballet dancer print and pink dress print were the clear favorites this year. I hope to add more prints like these to my shop in 2018, so stay tuned!

International travel

I left the North American continent for the first time this summer! We had the opportunity to visit Ethiopia for a couple of family weddings, and the whole experience was pretty amazing.

Sharing my passion with the next generation

I had the privilege of teaching art classes for elementary school kids this year. There were times when I'd glance around the classroom and feel like I was teaching a bunch of mini-Marias! Seeing all of these kids getting excited about art really took me back to my own childhood and reminded me of how my own passion for the arts began.

Best fashion purchase

This maxi romper was definitely one of my favorite clothing purchases this year. It's a step away from my usual basics, but it's such a fun piece to have in my closet.

Best art purchase

Art supplies are expensive, y'all. But I certainly have no regrets when it comes to these Tombow Dual Brush Pens. They are so fun to use, but I know I've barely scratched the surface of their potential.

2018 Expectations

I'm still pondering 2018 and all that I hope it will be. My head is just exploding with ideas, and I'm currently sorting through them and feeling out my next steps as a professional artist. I can't wait to share with you guys what's in store, but in the meantime, I wish you all a Happy New Year! May 2018 bring you good health and great joy :)