While the snow falls gently outside my parent’s home here in Colorado I am mentally preparing myself for returning to my own home after nearly 3 weeks of holiday traveling. I’m looking forward to stepping back into things after this much needed break.
I’ve recently spent some time writing down all the things I want to work on going forward. While this is New Years and the time when we all tend to make resolutions, it also happens to be, for me, a time when one big thing has essentially finished, giving me mental and physical room to ponder new things and directions. Thoughts of ‘what’s next?’ are filling my head.
Most of what I want to change or start, involve revisiting things that I used to do all the time, but in the last 12 months have given up in order to make way for a book to pour out of me. So in a way, I feel like I am re-capturing myself while also trying to envision the new.
I am profoundly changed by having completed this book project. I feel a lightness and a sense of accomplishment for having completed something huge and then there is the relief of getting this ‘thing’ out of my brain and transformed into something real. And, I can’t underestimate the value of having learned so much and meeting so many great people along the way.
As I find my way through this swirl there are, however, a few things that I have determined for sure.
1) Studio ‘g’ is here to stay and I looking forward not only to being here (as I have missed this) but re-discovering my passions, goals, and myself in writing here. I am also working on a significant site makeover and upgrade that you will see roll out iteratively in the coming months.
2) Leaf Magazine is done. I loved creating it but it needed to evolve and as with many 1.0 versions….it is being scrapped to make room for a fresh start – One that has learned from all the lessons that initial effort taught.
3) I am going to continue to work and make a career in media related Garden and Outdoor Lifestyle ventures. My future projects include Leaf Magazine 2.0 (though it won’t be called that…but I am actively working on a new publication that is tentatively scheduled to release late spring 2014). (Lots more to come on that). There will also be more barn classes and events, and maybe even more books (as I loved the work behind this most recent project and I can’t wait until you all get to see the fruits of my labors in Aug/ Sept of 2014). And hopefully there will also be some unexpected surprises – I love surprises.
How about you? What are your thoughts on the new year? Have you got anything interesting in the works?
image: Linda Walter for Studio ‘g’.
Rochelle, It was at this site that I first learned about Pinterest and many other cool things, especially garden related. I look forward to you being a resource for all things garden and outside fun.
Congrats on finishing your book and looking forward to Studio G in 2014.
Ann
Thank you Ann — I hope I can get back into my blogging groove asap – After so many years where things have ebbed, flowed and winded around, I am eager to get back to my original intentions and ‘roots’. I love hearing from you and others about how my sharing has encouraged or inspired you.
Thank you Ann — I hope I can get back into my blogging groove asap – After so many years where things have ebbed, flowed and winded around, I am eager to get back to my original intentions and ‘roots’. I love hearing from you and others about how my sharing has encouraged or inspired you. Cheers to 2014!
A good surprise is the salt that gives life so much of it’s taste…I really enjoy your blog so I look forward to the upgrade and all of your new projects for 2014. Have a great new year.
Charlie — I have so appreciated your comments this year. I look forward to seeing you in 2014 too.
Rochelle, I have always enjoyed reading your blog and I have also enjoyed Rodney’s guest posts. Congratulations on your upcoming book and I wish you all the best for a happy, healthy New Year! This is a great time of year to look ahead and make plans.
At Plant Paradise Country Gardens we are looking forward to welcoming Terry Dowdeswell, (the world renown Delphinium hybridizer and creator of the New Millennium Delphiniums), from New Zealand at our 7th annual Delphinium Festival July 5 & 6. (Caledon, Ontario).
Keep up the inspiring posts and I look forward to the new magazine 2.0 and your book.
Lorraine – how do I not already know about your delphinium festival?? — do share more details!
Rochelle, I’m sad to hear it confirmed that Leaf magazine is no more as I, and everyone I shared it with, enjoyed it very much. Still, I’ll look forward to 2.0 in whatever form it takes, as well as your book. Congratulations on completing the book – as I’m working on one of my own (unrelated to gardening), I can easily imagine the effort involved. Best wishes for a happy new year!
Rochelle –
You’ve been a terrific inspiration – both visually, and technically!! You introduced me to Pinterest, and the idea of having visual list, instead of written ones. I’ve enjoyed Rodney’s posts, as well as Susan’s. You and Susan are leaders for us designers! Here’s to continued success in the coming new year – and rave book reviews!
Such a great blog, Rochelle!… I’m looking forward to continue reading…I an also a garden fan.
Good luck for 2014!
Anna
Hi Rochelle,
Sorry for taking so long to get back to you. I have been swamped after “Garden Design” ran an article about Plant Paradise Country Gardens. Our 7th annual Delphinium Festival (July 5 & 6, 10:00am-5:00-pm) includes: guided talk & tours of the botanical gardens, food & refreshments, and the Art in the Garden Show & Sale with local artisans. One of the highlights of the weekend include the world renown Delphinium hybridizer and creator of the New Millennium Delphiniums – Terry Dowdeswell. He will be traveling all the way from New Zealand for a fun-filled presentation on Saturday. Under the big top tent you can enjoy a BBQ lunch and refreshments overlooking the gardens. More info can be found on our website at: http://www.plantparadise.ca/events.html