So long 2010, it's been good to know ya.

     This is the first new year's eve in recent memory - perhaps in my adult life - that I haven't said something like "I can't say I'm sorry to see this year go." Amazing. I guess that means it's been a good year. And indeed it has.

Freedom of Choice (detail)
Acrylic on Masonite 12x12
Tabetha Landt Hastings
$45

     By the same token this is the first year in recent memory (perhaps since my sister died 15 years ago) that I actually enjoyed the holidays. Normally I hide away and do my best to ignore them, or grudgingly partake in the celebrations trying to - and often succeeding in - alleviating my misery for a few hours, only to sink back into some kind of miserable holiday funk and depression. 

    So what is so different about this year?
Did I drop 50 pounds, fall in love or win the lotto? No, no and definitely no! In fact I'm making less money than I have in many many years, and living with my mother. (Two things that would cause a lot of red-blooded American women to go completely batty!) What's different is that I finally found the nerve to do what I what I love. I'm painting, helping other people to discover and explore their creative sides, and helping other artists to show their work. It's all very satisfying. And I'm actually looking forward to 2011 without being sick and tired of 2010. What a great feeling!

     So for the new year I encourage you to take steps - even baby steps - to follow your dreams. To live an authentic life. Indeed, I dare you to live your life like it's golden..