A New Year and a new perspective!

Every year when Christmas rolls around my attention is somewhat divided between all the festivities of Christmas and thinking about my plans, dreams and goals for the new year.  This year as I was packing to travel for Christmas, I came across this t-shirt in my closet and immediately knew that the word BE was going to be the foundation of my 2014 goals.
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I have given lots of thought to what I want to accomplish in the new year and decided that instead of resolutions I was going to create a mantra that I would use to guide me through the year to achieve the goals I have set for myself.

 2014 is my year to BE…

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 BE RESPONSIBLE

for my health and happiness.  This year I am going to dedicate myself to a fitness plan that supports my health and fosters happiness in my life. I enjoy walking, swimming and working out and 2014 will be a year when I make it a priority and take full responsibility for the happiness that good health brings and how important health is to my happiness.
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BE DEDICATED

to making my business even more successful.  In 2014 I plan to re-brand my businesses and re-launch my design website, blog and Etsy shops.  I’m excited to grow and expand the ConfettiStyle brand, teach more design workshops and partner with companies on new opportunities.  Mid 2013 I began working with a new company, CraffitiDirect, a leading manufacturer of crafting stamps and embossing plates and I’m excited to travel to the CHA show (Craft and Hobby Association) with them this month as their creative artist.  This new partnership allows me to enjoy my passion of crafting and will help my business grow in a new area.  Plus, attending this show has been on my bucket list for years so crossing it off will accomplish one of my goals below.  
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BE INSPIRED

by reading books, taking classes and expanding my knowledge. I’ve already gotten a jump on my book list and am currently reading Wayne Dyers Wishes Fulfilled.  I’ve always admired Mr. Dyer’s  work and his wisdom on living your best life and I’ve found inspiration after reading just a few pages.  Also on the to-do list is a photography class and calligraphy class and I’m super excited to attend the Design Bloggers Conference here in Atlanta in March.  I know that connecting with fellows bloggers and designers and learning from the industries best is going to be an amazing source of inspiration.
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 BE a DREAMER

by crossing things off my bucket list.  I am a dreamer at heart and truly believe that anything I dream can become a reality.  I love adventure, to try new things and to push myself to new heights and 2014 will be a year when I will actively pursue my dreams and live them to the fullest!
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BE ADVENTUROUS

by traveling and experiencing a new place.  So I just told you that I love adventure and trying new things but on the other side of the coin I am a creature of habit when it comes to vacations.  I love our spot in Myrtle Beach, I love taking a cruise on the same cruise line we’ve traveled on 8 times before and I am somewhat of a snob when it comes to the hotel chains I stays at.  This year I vow to step out of the box and be more adventurous when it comes to travel!
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BE CHARITABLE

    I have served on the board of directors of a local non-profit organization for 3 years and this year I will be stepping into the role of board vice-president. When my store was open I always donated to charitable organization but it wasn’t until I really got involved with one that I understood how important and critical these organizations are to the communities they support.  I get such joy in knowing that I give of my time and money to make my community and the lives of the people in it better.
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BE THANKFUL

 Like many of you I try to take a moment each day to give thanks for all that I have in my life.  2013 was a year of health challenges for family members, a year of new business opportunities for me, the 22nd year with the love of my life, new friendships and so much more. There is so much to be thankful for and in the new year I want to make the act of gratitude a more central part of my journey.
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Whew!  There you have it, my goals and my mantra for the coming year.  I have so much I want to accomplish in the new year and I can’t wait to get started and get things crossed off my list.

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2014 is going to be a great year and I’m looking forward to being all that I can BE!

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What do you want to BE in 2014?
p.s.  One of my design idols, Tobi Fairley also wrote a great blog post on the way we should look at new years resolutions.  I think you’ll find it as inspiring as I did.

Festive and Easy DIY New Year’s Decor

HAPPY NEW YEAR!  Well almost!  I can’t believe how fast 2013 has flown by but I’m excited about welcoming a new year, new opportunities, new experiences and new friendships!  I can tell already that 2014 is going to be stellar year and I can’t wait until the stock of midnight to celebrate!

I typically don’t decorate much if at all for New Years Eve but this year I thought I’d do a little something to welcome the year.  I’ve rounded up a few easy DIY ideas that I’m considering and wanted to share them with you in case you want to add a little celebration to your celebration.

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This table-cloth is out of this world gorgeous and calls for a big party.  Since that’s not happening in my home, I’m liking the idea of a couple pennant and circle garlands to celebrate under.  Not only would this be a quick and easy project but it’s something that can be used year after year.

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A celebration is not a celebration unless cupcakes are involved.  These fun tinsel toppers would be a great way to add a little cheer to the holiday treat.

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I love the idea of turning tin containers into new years party packages by adding a paper clock face to the top.  These little cans could hold treats or wishes for the new year.

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One of my favorite party décor items is paper medallions.  Using a black, silver and gold color combo along with the addition of paper clock faces turns these into fun new years party décor.

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Wow.  Who’s up for adding a little glitter to your champagne bottle.  I love the idea but wouldn’t want to open such a pretty bottle.

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Another fun and simple new years garland can be created using paper stars.  Run them through the sewing machine to create lengths of festive stars and you’ll be able to welcome the new year under the stars, literally!

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I’m definitely going to be changing up my chalkboard to show a New Years message.  And, I’m going to try my hand at something fancy like this.

So what are you plans for new years and how will you be decorating to welcome 2014?

Shelly

p.s.  I’m taking the  rest of the year off from blogging and will be back on New Year’s Day with some thoughts and insights on new years resolutions!

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