Well, here it is, the last day of 2018. I’m sitting here sipping my crème brûlée tea and sporting pink reindeer socks (aloe infused of course) reflecting on 2018.
We do that don’t we! When the end comes to something (or even someone) we reflect on the past. Oftentimes, we seem to overlook the “bad” and only remember the good when we reminisce. That’s human nature though, I think.
2018
So my year in review? I can’t recall much of the end 2017/beginning of 2018. In February of this year, I retired from 20 years in banking. While this was an incredibly difficult step, I had the support of my husband, family and friends. It was time. Just because it’s the right decision doesn’t mean it won’t hurt and/or be difficult. Right doesn’t = easy.
Taking this step -- trusting my Jesus and my sweet husband, provided opportunities I wouldn’t have had otherwise. I was available to lend a hand (and wheels) to my dear friends and neighbors in a time of need. I was able to assist at our church when there was a vacancy (which led to a permanent part-time job) and other opportunities. Probably most significantly, retiring from banking provided me with the time I needed to really develop my business, Designs With Love!
I got this website up and running, spent countless hours immersing myself in the world of floral design. I have spent so much time on education, both floral design and marketing. This world of internet marketing and business development -- well, it’s daunting to me. Eight months ago, I knew nothing about crawlers (outside of the bug world) and SEO’s. And then there is this blog; I still am not claiming to be any good at it, but I intend to finish the year on target! And I have six hours to get ‘er done.
2019
What are my plans for 2019? Well, I kind of chuckle – there is that saying, “We plan. God laughs.” So, while I plan (and chuckle), I am trying to keep in mind, I may make my plans, but God is steering my ship. Sooo, with that in mind, what I would like to see in 2019?
Sunny skies every day with just enough rain, perfect temperatures, lots of flowers, no sad tears – only happy ones, scads of happy couples. Grow in my faith, deepen my relationship with my husband and friends. Develop my prayer life. Show others Jesus and point them to Him as I go about my day. And of course, like most everyone else, lose 25#.
Run a God-honoring business and again, reflect my Lord as I deal with clients and people. Have a full and thriving business as I develop relationships with people. Seeing them as God-seeking, searching for belonging and value, individuals, loved by and desired of God, their Creator.
Deepen my knowledge of the world of floral design; techniques, skills, tools. Refine my time management, increase internet traffic to my website….
Well, there are a few things on my 2019 list over which I have zip, zero, zilch control. LOL! (e.g. the weather). Many of them though, I do! And it is up to me to make them happen. Only I can grow my faith, as a sole proprietor floralpreneur, I am the one who must develop my techniques and increase traffic.
And so, as I put 2018 behind me; I am committing 2019 to my Heavenly Daddy. Doing the best I can, entrusting God with the outcome.
Each step I take, my Saviour goes before me
And with His loving hand, He leads the way.
And with each step I whisper, “I adore Thee.”
Oh, what joy to walk with Him each day.
Each step I take my I know that He will guide me;
To higher ground He ever leads me on.
Until some day, that last step will be taken.
Each step I take, just leads me closer home.
W. Elmo Mercer, 1953
So watch-out 2019 here we come!
Happy New Year everyone! May this new year, 2019, be the best year you've ever had!
Love and God's richest blessings from Designs With Love!
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Happy New Year! I pray blessings for you, and in your growing business this coming year!