c'est mon anniversaire

    Today marks the date that I was born 22 years ago. I was born early in the morning, so technically I've been 22 for many hours now, but I don't believe it's fully set in yet. Why you may ask? 22 is the first real "adult age marker" (in my eyes).. I'm not a teenager, I'm old enough to purchase alcohol, the only thing I can't really do is rent a car (which I suppose 25 could be a year marker for that purpose). This year marks a year that people will expect more of me, I will expect more of myself, and I believe I'll start feeling better about that. 

    Although taking on new roles throughout this upcoming year, whichever they may be, I found myself looking back on my 21st year today. I received a text from my mom this morning that said "You should be proud... you have a lot going for a 22 year old", and it made me sit and think of all the things I have accomplished in my past year. 

I. I have pushed through more college classes than some take two years, transferred to the university I had longed to go to, officially changed my major (for the last time, hopefully), and maintained a grade point average I am proud of.

II. I have collaborated with more local businesses/artists than I had ever dreamed of doing this year. I hosted my first ever event, a pop-up shop, and began developing to co-host a charity event in early April. I was featured on a local news channel, twice, and shared a few projects of mine on air. I was also interviewed in my favorite local magazine. The opportunities I have had in my city this year have been so beneficial for me to be where I am today.

III. I opened and closed personal businesses this year. I started to re-brand my vintage clothing store, made it a little success for awhile and shopped for a few people locally, then decided to close it down to focus on other projects. I also started collecting rare and used books, which I sold either through my shop or on ebay. I also decided to start taking my photography/styling more seriously, and created a portfolio website to display my work. I am currently in the process of developing a shop to sell prints/postcards and working with local models to create beautiful pieces. 

    And honestly, that's not even half of what I believe I've accomplished during my time of being 21, but other's are more personal. I urge everyone to list out these accomplishments on their birthdays, and share them with other's surrounding them. If there is one thing I've learned this year past year, it's to not be afraid to share what you're proud of and great accomplishments made by YOU. They make you who you are and inspire those around you as well. With that being said, also ask about other's accomplishments as well, and encourage them to continue with their progress.What have you accomplished this past year?