Can you believe that it has been a year since COVID first hit us? Sometimes it seems like yesterday, and other times it seems like it has been this way forever. I think as many people did that it would blow by and be gone before we knew it. Were we ever wrong. Between COVID, political divides, and tension it has certainly been a strange year for all of us, some good, and some bad. In the beginning, everything seemed so strange. It was awkward going out and you really didn’t know what was right and what was wrong. Many of us lost friends to COVID, and many of us worry about our loved ones who are front-line workers and battle this every day. Luckily, it seems that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Life is starting to get back to normal, even if it looks a little different.

I am sure that like me, many people took this last year to slow down and reevaluate certain aspects of life. COVID forced us to slow down. I was staying home a lot more, and it was strange. I was always on the go it seemed. Creating some kind of routine was so important because I could see how many people could fall into a state of depression during the last year. I have made it a point to keep up with the same routine and find that I have enjoyed the slowdown and change. There is nothing wrong with a little slowdown.

Self-care has become so important in the last year. Many of us really didn’t make time for ourselves. I enjoy getting up very early when everyone else is still sleeping, and the house is so quiet. I start every morning with an affirmation and then a workout from Beachbody on Demand. Honestly, I never thought that I would like to work out at home, but I really do. A morning workout is a perfect way to start the day. I follow that with time to work on my business, blog, YouTube, and anything else business-related. In the evening, I have adopted a routine as well. I do a stretching workout and meditation. After those are done all electronics are off for the night. This small step has made such a difference in the quality of sleep I get.

I also took this past year to do some things that I have always wanted to do for myself. I took classes in Interior Redesign, and became certified in the field. Creating my brand has always been a dream of mine, and I ventured into social media, marketing, and YouTube. I have found an amazing group of supportive women that helped and guided me along this journey. My friend Brenda always says Did It Scared, Didn’t Die. Yep, I’m still here. I journaled more and have been more focused on creating the life that I love and want for my family.

This past year has also shown me that sometimes people only come into your life for a short time. Unfortunately, I lost friends that I thought would always be in my life over politics. In all honesty, were they really good friends if they couldn’t respect my views? I will always respect my friends’ views and love them anyway. My circle got smaller and that is okay by me. I was sad at the loss but moved on. Many people know that my husband was in a work accident in December. It was a very scary time, and he is still recovering. Again, in these situations, you find out who your friends are. Some people I thought would be supportive were not, and other people surprise me with their care and concern.

Life has certainly been a roller coaster this last year. I am looking forward to what the future has in store for me. I am enjoying all of the new aspects and adventures of my business. In June, I am taking a much-needed break and heading to Palm Beach for a Lilly Pulitzer girls’ weekend. I hope your future looks bright too.

Carrie

Carrie Kelly is an Interior Redesigner Industry Specialist and  Lead Designer at Carrie Kelly Designs specializing in interior redesign, seasonal, and home decor helping clients create beautiful spaces in their homes without the time and expense of a full remodel. She is also a Senior Outfitter with Initial Outfitters, a boutique featuring all things monogrammed and personalized for your unique style. Carrie is also the author of Pineapples and Sweet Tea, a Lifestyle blog, and co-author of the #1 best-selling book The Art of Connection.