Style for Grace

So, my plan was to write (feverishly) a few blog entries. Until 5 minutes ago, I committed to writing three: one about our trip on the Polar Express, one about Christmas, and one about 2008: the good, the bad and the ugly. Then I read Deena Burgess' blog and joined her quest to be better to myself. I could write three separate entries, but why put unnecessary pressure on myself - when really during this season I should be celebratory, positive, and a little less demanding of myself. Thank you Deena, your insight and timing was impeccable!

So, this is my one and last entry for 2008. My theme: what I've accomplished in 2008.

1) The online birth of Style for Grace. Launching this business was 2 years in the making. Aside from my marriage and the birth of my daughter, it might be my greatest achievement to date. I've always had an entrepreneurial spirit and am so grateful for the love, support, and tenacity to actually start a business. I cannot think of a professional accomplishment greater than seeing my business live and actually have people write, "Your business is terrific!" During 2008, I made my first online sales, garnered quality reviews from national blogs, and managed a feature in the Capital Region's largest daily newspaper, the Albany Times Union. At so many points along this journey, I faced fears I never knew existed within me and managed to face each with gusto. At times, I struggled to find humor and really just wanted to cry and give up. I'm proud to say, I never did. My advice, not that you were asking, but I'll share it anyway, never give up - which sounds equally cliche, but nevertheless appropriate.

2) Groundbreaking of our dream home. My husband and I finally broke ground on our epic dream home. It's epic in the sense of its undertaking, not its size. Here I thought you just hire professionals then voila your house was built. Wow, was I wrong! Before beginning this adventure, someone told me building a home was a true test of a marriage. Tom and I are passing this test with flying colors! We've had our moments, believe me; but I wouldn't build a home with anyone else. This entire project has proven that his patience and my persistence make us quite the duo. During 2009, I will share more about this adventure, but for now, let's just say, the completion of this project is on the horizon.

3) In 2008, my sweet little Grace became potty trained. Right after Grace's second birthday, I started thinking about economies of scale and urged her to wear big girl underwear. I purchased movies, made charts, took pictures, made celebratory phone calls to random family members whenever she successful went on the potty - seriously you name it, I tried it. Wouldn't you know Grace resisted. I read a wonderful book by Dr. T. Berry Brazelton and came to the realization that potty training shouldn't be on my timeline, but should be self-directed by Grace. We left for summer vacation and Tom and I consciously decided to drop potty training and wouldn't you know, Miss Grace wanted to go on the potty. We came home from vacation and the interest still existed and her confidence grew. She has been potty trained for a few months now! I will admit I still carry a diaper bag - it's my little insurance policy, because as Grace has reminded me through this potty training journey, "Momma, accidents happen."


4) Becoming involved with Savor the Success, the new social networking and public relations co-op for female entrepreneurs and professionals. This has been such a gem for my business and has connected me with so many amazing and savvy women. I feel truly blessed to be the co-leader of the Greater Capital Region Chapter with Julie Defuscio of Girly Girl Studios. Julie and I look forward to growing and "savoring" our successes with women in the Capital Region and beyond during 2009. Our next Capital Region event is January 21st.

As I wrote all this, I felt a surge of positive energy - these are really great things that I should celebrate and I will do so this evening. And when I sip my celebratory drink tonight, I'll reflect, and look to 2009 with vigor and certainty that the joys of entrepreneurship, motherhood and marriage will bring much to celebrate during the year! Cheers!

Labels: 2008, potty training, savor the success, styleforgrace