2024 Highlights: The good, the bad, and the lessons of Inside Out 2
I stumbled across Scholastic's Kids News Magazine recently. It featured highlights from 2024: the devastation of hurricanes Milton and Helene; the election of Donald Trump; the baby pygmy hippo Moo Deng that overtook the internet; Simone Biles’ performance at the Olympics. It also highlighted how well Inside Out 2 performed in theaters globally. Apparently, it's the most successful animated movie in history! The kids I was reading this with were quick to say that actually this movie was the “coolest” thing in the magazine because it deals with our “core emotions.” I thought it was pretty cool that some eleven year olds could use that phrase…
What are your highlights from 2024? And, which one is the “coolest"? Keep in mind that most of the ones featured in Scholastic were tough or even horrific (like the hurricanes). For me, in 2024, I got a grant from the Springboard for the Arts and created my art website. I got more serious about writing newsletters to you. I grew my network and had the opportunity to show work at the Burl Gallery, MOV Yoga Studio, and currently at the Holidays on Nicollet Market in downtown Minneapolis.
I also had some big business losses. Examples? I had several clients end coaching unexpectedly. My artwork was rejected at a popular art event I wanted to get into and another art grant was rejected because I made a error in the application process. And, through it all, I continued to tend our houseplants with sweet banter and send my partner video clips of woodland creatures. But, most importantly, I kept working on my beliefs and paid attention when I felt joy, sadness, disgust, anger, doubt and fear. These were my signs that I needed to dig deeper and pay attention to my needs. This also happens to be what I do with my clients. I focus on the core emotions, the foundation of beliefs, and I keep pushing individuals forward and witnessing their incredible growth.
So reader, what are your highlights? And, how can I help you move forward from there?
I’m here for you. I also happen to be at the Burl Gallery in St. Paul, the Holidays on Nicollet Market in Minneapolis and at MOV Yoga Market & Cafe. Would love to connect with you virtually or in the Twin Cities!
P.S. You can connect with me virtually on social media or head to my website for my Holiday Art Show. Check out my original paintings, prints (matted and framed!) and notecards. Use promo code HOLLY25OFF to receive 25% off your order of $25 or more.
P.P.S. The painting above is entitled, "Looking Through the Portal." (you can purchase this as a matted and framed print here). I suppose it's a fitting image for this newsletter, reader. As I reflect upon this year, I am gleaning on what I want to leave behind, as well as what I want to welcome in 2025. If you are interested in doing some of your own reflection, check out my book, Power Change, found on Amazon here.