Looking back on this year, I have realized just how little artwork I actually got done, until the last three months, but for some reason, I am happy about it. I'm pleased I was able to be motivated to do so many pictures in so little amount of time, especially because the motivation to do more is still there! I intend to get a lot more pictures done next year too.

This year has been absolutely hectic. In June, and for a couple months after, I was rather miserable (my heart was hurt badly by someone I thought I was in love with), but it all turned out for the best anyway. I wouldn't have learned the lessons I did, and seen things the way I do now. I wouldn't have realized just how precious the words "I love you" are to me. I fling them around like candy at a parade for my friends, but I always mean it. I've learned to be careful of others whom I tell, because it is a great responsibility to love.

I was rather stupid and, not waiting a month for my heart to heal, jumped into another relationship I wasn't ready for in mid-July. He wanted more than I was willing to give, and that one also ended, about a week before my birthday. With him, though, I wasn't loose with the phrase "I love you". In fact, I don't think I said it to him even once, and I asked him not to say it to me until he could honestly mean it. He only said it once, and it was after we'd broken up. He is still a wonderful friend, and I love him as such, but I'm still not ready for anything more than friends at this point.

I get really lonely, when I think of the happy couples that I know (and thinking of the unhappy ones helps a little, but... ), but that's what my friends are for.

I got to spend a week up in Salt Lake with and in October (they inspired the sudden motivation to draw ), and it was the best time I'd had all year.

My brother is still in Oregon on his mission, but it was weird to realize he's already been gone a year. It feels no more than six months, really, and he'll be home by next Christmas!

I have realized this year who my friends are, which ones are helping me up, and which ones were never true friends to begin with. It's been eye-opening, and difficult, but I'm grateful. Knowing who you can trust, and being able to love them unconditionally is a magnificent feeling.

Wow, I feel really sappy and sweet Thanks for "listening" anyways, guys, and look for more updates soon!

Happy New Year!