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I know people who get up each day and go whichever way the winds blows. They thrive on not knowing what will happen next and they easily take change with a grain of salt - good or bad. I am not one of those people. I am a planner. I like to know what I am doing tomorrow. I like to know what is next and what I can count on. I’m certain I am a control freak who just likes to be in charge. 2020 has not been a great year for such a planner. God is indeed testing my faith and showing me where I need to grow. He is showing me where I need to trust more and rely on His promises for good. He is growing my faith as He has been since I jumped off the cliff into this painting adventure with my eyes closed tightly afraid to breathe.

And now, another “wind of change” has billowed through my life! The studio, Wild Ibis, where I’ve had space since getting out of my garage, is breaking apart. Wild Ibis is moving to Mt Dora-back to their roots and to their comfort zone. 2020 seems to be about everyone finding their own space where they feel best. I will be staying behind in Eustis at the same building with my same space, but with a new name. I am left with so many unknowns and so many questions. What will come next? Who will fill these spaces? Will there be new opportunities ahead for me in 2021? How will all this turn out? Will people remember I am here? What will be the new vibe? So many uncertainties. That is not a comfortable place for a planner.

At first, I was saddened that 2020 destroyed such a neat place-a place that first gave me a glimpse of who I am as an artist and who I could be. It was comfortable to me as it is. And, I would be missing some really great, supportive ladies in my life day to day- ladies who have encouraged me along the way when I had doubts and ladies who have helped open doors for me. After taking in some deep breaths, I have chosen to see this change as an opportunity for me to grow as an artist and as a person and as an opportunity to have faith that God is in charge of this plan. No doubt, there will be new people coming into my life. No doubt the business operation at the space will be different and no doubt operating under a new name will bring new people in the front door. Much is left untold thus far. God has not let me peek around the corner to see what is next yet, but I’m beginning to feel some greater sense of trust that all will be well. Opportunities for 2021 are already presenting themselves and I am finding that with each new change in 2020, I am accepting it sooner and with more grace. God really has His job cut out for Him. As my Dad tells me, when I was 4, 5, 6 years old, I always wanted to know what we were doing and at what time. And, if the time came and we weren’t doing it yet, why not? I was that kid….

So, since I can’t see around corners and all isn’t in place yet, I will be painting and creating in my space and trusting God has me just where He planned for me to be to accomplish the things He intends for me to accomplish with the gifts He has given me. That is my comfort in these times of uncertainty. And it is also my challenge. Having blind faith does not come easy to us control freaks. We are always a work in progress. I’m hoping good art will be made through the struggle. You’ll have to be the judge. One thing is for certain, I will be giving it my best shot no matter how much change comes my way. I am finally doing the thing I love and I won’t let fear of change take that from me.

I’d love to hear from you. Where do you gain your confidence, peace, harmony when times of change come? How do you take to change? Do you roll with it or do you struggle to the end? How have you weathered the winds of change during 2020? Have you adjusted easily or are you still struggling? Just leave me a comment or two in the section below.

Best until next time,

Kelley