It has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding year of my life so far. I have to say 2016 was the year that I truly understood the power of human connection. I started the year off a bit (actually, a whole lot) uncertain of where my professional life would take me. Throughout my journey to find that perfect role, I’ve met so many incredible beings whom were all so willing and kind enough to set time aside to meet, give advice and help me navigate the professional networking game. I am grateful for every encounter. But the truth is, it was never easy. It was actually painful on so many levels—searching for the dream job.

There were definitely times when I felt like I would never get there. I’ve experienced many of the emotions on the negative spectrum. Maybe I wasn’t meant to lead this ‘creative’ career path. I don’t have a formal education in design but I am passionate about the creative development process. From conceptualization to execution across branding, multichannel marketing content creation, photography, videos, and digital/print assets—I’ve done it all. I’ve worked so hard in the last five years to prove myself. All of my design skill sets were self-taught. I have an innate creative intuition. I also possess a killer work ethic. Wasn’t that enough?

In the end, it was.

The journey was difficult but the destination made it worth it. It took me an entire year but the year ended with a bang! I recently signed on as Art Director, J.Jill. I can’t think of a more perfect position for me at this time. And my team? They are absolutely amazeballs.

As I sit here in my home office, I feel peace and contentment. I’ve just finished a quiet week at work (everyone’s on holiday break) and recently had a day off to spend with Zoey. Just mommy and me. Ever since starting work several months ago, life has been a nonstop hustle so days like these are very rare and special.

We went into the the city, stopped by The Boston Public Library for tea, pastries and some quiet time. After, we shopped for something special. It’s part Christmas present, part celebratory gift. It’s my dream bracelet- the Hermes Collier De Chien. But it’s more than that. For me, it signifies one of the biggest career moments of my life. Like the husband said “You deserve it.” 

Hard work has its reward and this is a well-deserved reward for myself. 🙂

Whatever you are fighting for in your life—never give up, continue to chase your dreams, do what you love and the universe will reciprocate.

Everything will work out. It always does. 🙂

In Instagram news- 1. Tea time at The Boston Public Library 2. Part Christmas present, part celebratory gift 3. Mommy + me enjoying lattes and teas in the Boston Public Library courtyard 4. Cotton candy champagne, found on Pinterest. 

Happy New Year! I hope 2017  will bring you health, love and loads of success!