Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, shared this quote by Georgia O’Keeffe and it literally altered something in me as a creative: “I’ve already settled it for myself, so flattery and criticism go down the same drain, and I am quite free.” Like damn,  That hit. Because the truth is, when you’re putting your voice, your work, your art yourself out there, it’s so easy to get caught up in the noise. The praise can feel like fuel and the criticism like poison, but either way, you’re still letting someone else steer. This quote reminded me that the real power comes from deciding: I’ve already settled it for myself. My worth, my intention, my purpose? All handled. So whether you clap or cringe, I’m still good. I’m still creating. I’m still free

P.S.

I miss my dog so much. It’s been a couple years since we put him down. Life just isn’t the same without him and sometimes when the kids go to bed and the house is quiet. I cry thinking about him and how I want to scratch his head and rub his ears. It makes me so sad that he didn’t even meet Arlo. He didn’t ever see our whole family. I miss you Luke.