Can you believe we are in the last few days of January? Can you believe this is my first post of 2018 and the first month is almost over? I can and will explain to you in a bit, although, a lot of it has to do with my new year’s intentions for 2018. I’m all about finding balance, opportunities, and using my voice for good. It’s a new year! I’m building a new me and a new blog for my readers.

Intentions for 2018

Balance

I have been a one woman show for the past year and it has been daunting. I love my blog, but I love my kids more. Lately, I’ve felt quite disconnected when I’m in their presence because I’m always thinking about what to do, what to shoot or where to go as a blogger. Clark and Stone are my full-time job until blogging affords me the income to hire a nanny. Lol. I am holding on to the age old adage, “Do what you love and you will never work a day in your life.” This is partially true because I am working my tail off for www.clarkandstone.com, however, it comes with a price. That price has been balancing motherhood and bloggerhood.

My intentions for balance are to completely disconnect from social media/blogging mentally when in the presence of the boys. I don’t want to be disconnected because that will teach them to do that with others. I have fun with them, but I want to finish what I started as a stay-at-home mom, which was to be “there” for them. We need more dance parties in our lives. They need more books read to them, I need to cook more for them. I used to cook every single day before starting this blog.

I don’t want to constantly race against the clock in my daily interactions with them. Finding and keeping balance is what I want to focus on. If I’m not good to myself, I can’t be good to them. This is why I took a whole month off. I have had fun, and quite a few headaches with my rascals, but it’s all been worth it.

Opportunities

Last year was an amazing year as a blogger. The collaborations I had were beyond my wildest dreams. To recap, I had the pleasure of working with Veronica Beard, DVF, Who What Wear for Target, True Botanicals,  J.Crew Crewcuts, Rebecca Minkoff, and Uber just to name a few. I am beyond grateful for every brand that reached out to me. Brand collaborations and sponsorships definitely fulfill me and motivate me to keep going.

What’s my secret sauce? I think it’s because I am nice and for no reason. I also think I’m funny and I try not to take myself too seriously. Unless, it pertains to Clark and Stone (mom guilt is real). I try to be authentic to myself so I am able to be authentic in the presence of others. I talk a lot!  And I am genuinely interested in just about every person I meet. I ask questions about them because I love getting to know everyone’s story. We all have a story to tell. Isn’t that what life is all about? A ton of my opportunities came from friends that pitched me to brands and I am forever grateful to my friends who believe in me and my blog.

My intentions for 2018 are to learn how to pitch myself and collaborate with more brands. I can’t wait for brands to approach me. The early bird gets the worm. Watch out worm because I’m coming for you. I would also love to work with other bloggers and local Chicago brands. Chicago is my hometown so I gotta show some love. Being a contributing writer for a few brands is also on the table so stay tuned. Also, a mega opportunity is slated for March with an uber french label so brace yourself.  Just think, it’s just January. I’m excited to top last year. Cross your fingers!

Use My Voice For Good

If you know me, you know giving back is a huge part of who I am. It’s not just all fancy labels here. Well, maybe, but there is more to me. I promise. Lol. My pastor, Jackson Crum (Park Community Church), once shared, your responsibility as a Christian is to give your time, talent, and treasure. Well, before kids, I gave my time and talent. After kids, it was easier to write a check and share my treasure. However, now as a blogger, I have felt compelled to give all three. This platform allows me to share great organizations/causes that are always in need of help.

I recently joined the Guild Board for the Boys and Girls Club of Chicago. I can’t tell you how excited I am to be a part of this board. It’s a chance to help kids attain dreams they didn’t think were possible. Giving kids access to the programs and people that truly will make a difference is what it’s all about.

Cheers To The New Year

This is probably my longest post ever. I’ve had a lot on my mind and I’m going through a lot of changes mentally. A new year gives you so much to think about. Goal setting is my strong point to a fault. I hit the ground running October 2016 and didn’t slow down until January. Also, learning how to extend grace to myself when I don’t meet set goals or do things perfectly are hazardous to my health. I’m learning how to let go and relax. Kick my feet up and live a little. Or, lately, if you follow my Insta stories, dance a little. It’s good for my soul. It’s food for my soul. Follow me as I learn to talk more to the camera (it freaks me out), show the not so perfect pictures, and hopefully, you get to see the far from perfect me and still follow me. Lol.

Love, Light and Laughter,
Ceta