The New Year has kicked off rather slowly for me, absolutely not the usual, but my family and I had some challenges to go through with the loss of someone very special in our lives. When I would normally be multitasking on several projects I felt I needed time to go within a bit and re-evaluate everything in my life. So I gave myself some Time...which was really hard because I'm always going a million miles a minute. Then recently the California storms hit and our power went out for five days. Now I had no choice but to unplug and live "off the grid". As challenging as it was to not have power and internet and TV for five days, I actually secretly enjoyed having an excuse to do what I needed to do; be still and in the moment. I had great conversations with my daughters and my husband, read a terrific book, and painted. It allowed me the time to finish this painting; The Princess. The Lioness represents quiet strength. She is majestic and magical. She is also a fierce protector of her family. I think a lot of us women love so deeply that we would do anything for our families and this painting represents that strength.

The power is back on and the sun is shining once again. I feel like I had a good nights sleep and I'm ready to get back to work but in a much more mindful way. I have some exciting ventures on the horizon which I will be looking forward to sharing with all of you but until then, I wish you quiet strength, grace, and beauty in all that you do...like The Princess. May you live a life that is Majestic & Magical & Full of Color!

xoxo Mari