It’s pretty crazy how much one year can change your life. This was one of those years. After welcoming our second son into the world in December 2011, we spent the first half of 2012 adjusting to life as a family of four. Just when we thought we had a handle on things, life threw us a curve ball.
My husband has been battling a rare auto-immune disorder since mid-July. The initial treatment for his disorder stopped working after a few months, so he was recently put through an intense treatment regime which finished up right before Christmas. His condition is currently stabilized and though we still have a long road ahead of us, we are hopeful for a complete recovery in the future.
The entire experience has forced us to step back and reevaluate our priorities, from careers to parenting and everything in between. One of the most notable changes that took place in 2012 was that I choose to leave my career so I could have a bigger presence in the lives of our two young sons. This by far was the best decision I ever could have made for my family and I am grateful everyday that this experience gave me the courage to take the leap of faith needed to finally let go and do it.
A wise person once told me that you can’t help others until you help yourself first, and taking some time off from EVERYTHING was what I felt I needed to give my family the support to weather this difficult storm. I am fortunate to say that we haven’t had to do it alone. We have been on the receiving on more acts of genuine kindness over the last few months than I ever thought I would experience in my entire lifetime. I have been blown away by the support of our family and friends and really count my blessings to know how many wonderful people we have in our lives.
And I couldn’t post about 2012 without mentioning the launch of One Stylish Party. To say that One Stylish Party wasn’t launched under the best of circumstances would be a complete understatement. I think my shop launched within days of finding out that my husband was not well. At times it was a much needed distraction and at other times I would feel so frustrated because there is so much more I want to do, share and create to help fully bring my vision for One Stylish Party to life. Regardless, I am happy that I was able to get the brand off the ground in 2012 and even more excited to see where One Stylish Party will take me in 2013.
After everything that has happened this past year, my biggest take away from 2012 is to celebrate life and all of the little moments that come along with it. This is a huge part of why I started One Stylish Party in the first place. I love celebrating life’s moments and as I sit here today, I am ready to welcome the New Year and I’m beyond grateful to continue celebrating life with my husband, our two sons and all of our family and friends.
I hope you enjoy ringing in the New Year and take the time to really celebrate life’s little moments in 2013!
Jaclyn Peck says
beautifully written! best wishes and blessings for the new year