As Thanksgiving comes to an end, I felt it right to take a moment and reflect on all that I am thankful for. This past year has been one of so many experience and feelings. And while I would love to say gratitude seeps out of my pores day in and day out, I think we all know that isn't how life works.
These last 12 months have been some of major growth and understanding for where I've been and where I want to go. Many days I found myself in tears heaving over the thought of giving away a career I have been building for well over a decade. A career I placed not only my hopes and dreams in, but my full identity and lively hood as well.
And for that I am thankful.
I am so thankful for each and every accomplishment I made along the way. Every blunder that felt like it set me back a lifetime. I am thankful for all the fighting I did over the years because it showed me what I was capable of. And it opened me up to a pivot.
Which lead me to Lived X Leigh. A notion I've had for years. Reserving the domain name, and creating an Instagram account with absolutely no direction except a flash of hope in the pan. Being cynically realistic for most of my life, I've often gawked at the notion of someone getting to do something they truly love. It's a grand idea, but at the end of the day if you are not pushing to survive, is it real?
Yet here I sit. A guest room full of decor for upcoming holiday parties. An excitement to walk the neighborhood and find wild weeds to dream into the next floral arrangment. So many years of scheming up ideas to gather others around my serving dishes, and feeling true joy when someone asked me to help with a party. The way my mind races with a theme and how to find the most perfect decor item to tie it all together.
This past year of building Lived X Leigh has of course been on of nerves and worry - will I succeed? Will this work? Will people want to hire me? But wow, has it also been one of wonder!
Wonder owed to my husband. The man who has given me the support to take a step back and work through what I felt success needed to be. His unwavering grasp of belief that I'm going where I should. He stands tall in my times of doubt, and becomes a soft place to land when I need to fall. It is amazing the power and understanding I have uncovered with his steadfast arms around me.
And while I know there is a road ahead to bring the dreams I have for Lived X Leigh to light, I am so thankful to be right here, right now.
With love,
Shelby P.