July 2023 Recap

FUN FACT: I actually start my year in July.

I know it’s odd, but that is how I’ve lived my life since I can remember. Most people plan from January to December, but I plan from July to June. I am pretty sure this rhythm started with preparing for school growing up. Also, my birthday is in July and I think starting something smack dab in the middle of the calendar year is much more realistic, for me.

In June I started my annual planning of deliverables in my various buckets. I planned out school for my little ones, publishing for FREED Magazine, my book release schedule, and our calendar for Forever Green Branding. If you couldn’t tell already, I am an avid planner. I am one of those who have to plan to “not have a plan” for the day. That’s who I am and at this point in my life, I am perfectly okay with it!

So, leading up to July, I “planned” to have a creative month. All my other buckets were in a good space for me to create every day, or so I thought. I had projects lined up for weeks. Well funny thing, only a few of those actually came to fruition (maybe 1). Regardless I really enjoyed going with the flow even if it didn’t go exactly how I planned.

JULY

⁃            Traveled quite a bit

⁃            Went to the Kennedy Center to see The Lion King for my birthday (Thanks Dad)

⁃            FREED Magazine was a vendor at a local festival (incredible turnout)

⁃            Watched the fireworks with my family

⁃            Enjoyed much-needed beach time

⁃            Hosted a camp with my good friend Sydney

⁃            Rested

⁃            Floated in the lazy river at a water park

⁃            Got a pedicure for the first time in a long time (don’t judge)

⁃            Made progress on one of my illustrated books

⁃            Decluttered my fabric stash

⁃            Survived my baby boy teething

⁃            Discovered a new snack that I am in love with - Teriyaki Seaweed

⁃            Sewed (a little) and released a YouTube Video

⁃            My husband and I shared a brand we completed on IG (Baba’s Butters)

⁃            Experienced love and support from family and friends

⁃            Ate a TON of tacos (again…don’t judge)

I am learning to have “loose plans” and be okay if the wind blows in a different direction.

-Briana Ariel