A Time for Reflection
Today, when I woke up, I was greeted by quite a few birthday wishes. It was a nice way to wake up and begin the day. As I’ve thanked those who have wished me a great birthday, I’ve had time to reflect back on the past year.
As those closest to me know, it hasn’t been easy year. In fact, suffice it to say, it’s been one of the toughest. I spent the first six months of my 27th year with very limited use of my left hand. It was a very frustrating time for me.
Last Christmas, though, I was the lucky recipient of a miracle, of sorts, by way of my parents Wii. (Don’t ask.)
My injury was just one problem I dealt with this year. While I won’t post info on my other trials, I can say that there have been days that I’ve wanted to stay in bed, pull the covers over my head and cry. It hasn’t gotten easier to handle, though, in recent months.
It was back in March, or thereabouts, that I started writing again following my hiatus due to my hand injury. It was slow going, at first, but what really got me motivated was The Creative Alliance, created by author James Melzer.
TCA has given me so much over the past few months. I’m surrounded by a group of insanely talented people who accept me just the way I am. They provide me with support and laughs when I need it.
Because of their support and love, I want to take the time today to thank those who made the second half of this year better than the first.
Jenny, you have been such an amazing friend to me over the past couple of years. You’ve believed in me and helped me to grow. You’ve been a shoulder when I needed one. So thank you for that and thank you for allowing me to be a part of such an amazing anthology.
James, thank you for starting TCA. Without it, I wouldn’t have accomplished what I have the past few months.
Acadia, I know it cramps your style and makes you look less tough, but thank you for believing in me and for nagging me about this site. I’ve made myself accessible to a lot more people because of you. I owe you one.
Pat, thanks for being a great friend and allowing me to guest blog on your site. It was a blast, and we must do it again.
Edit: yesterday, I forgot to include the most important person at The Superificial Gallery — Vange. (We just allow Acadia to think he is.)
So Vange, thank you for reminding me every week to floss my teeth. 🙂 I’d be lost without you.
And as a whole, I must thank Jenny, Leslie, Jackie, Mary Lou and Annie for your time, friendship and support of Second Chances. I truly appreciate it.
Before I forget, as cheesy as it sounds, thank you, Lee, for your Slumberland album. Without it, I would never have figured out my lead character’s name.
As always, I must also thank my mom, dad and brother for their support. They’ve seen me at my worst and yet, they still love me. I love you guys!
OH! One more thing, to commemorate today, here’s a look at the cover for Second Chances, which, as most of you know, is part of the From the Dark Side Anthology. Enjoy!
Thanks to Jennifer Hudock for creating this beautiful cover.
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Patrick says:
Happy B-Day! Make next year even better, I know you can!
Whenever you want to guest blog again, you just give the word, just give me a heads up so I pick up the place a bit! 🙂
Nikki says:
Will do, Pat! I’m sure it’ll be a big hit again.
Jenny Beans says:
I hope your birthday was filled with wonderful things, and that this year of your life is one of the best to date. I love you with all my heart, girl, and can’t wait to see you blossom even more this year.
James Melzer says:
That was awesome, Nikki. I had no idea about all the stuff you were going through, and am glad TCA started at a time when it seems you needed it the most. Of course, you know I can’t take all the credit for starting it, the seed came from Jenny, and we worked on it together 🙂
I can’t wait to see and hear about all the amazing stuff that is in store for your life, you’re stronger than you realize, and we’ll be right her with you, cheering you on!
Nikki says:
Thank you, Ms. Jenny. I can’t wait to see myself blossom too. I’m tired of being seen as a wallflower. I don’t want to blend in anymore. I know I’ve come a long way, but I know my journey is just beginning. I have along way to go.
Nikki says:
TCA has been a lifesaver, of sorts. And I know Jenny had a hand in it, too.She’s got one heck of a brain, and I’m so glad she comes up with these ideas. They really do change people’s lives. (Thank you, Jenny, for sharing your brilliant ideas with the world. Seriously!)
Thank you for saying I’m stronger than I realize. Sometimes I lose sight of how strong I am. It’s hard to remember that I’ve been through a lot and come out stronger and better because of it. Though this year was tough, it was also a huge learning experience. And while it sucks to experience what I have, it definitely has given me a lot of perspective, so it’s been worth it. Although, I could do with less drama. DRAMA SUCKS!
vange says:
Hey, you forgot me! I remind you to floss EVERY WEEK!
Grrrrr
Happy birthday!
Nikki says:
LOL! How could I forget. I must post a revision now.
And thank you.
Susan says:
Happy belated birthday…and remember that through your pain have come some pretty incredible things! May next year bring you all the wonder with none of the pain….
vange says:
That is way better and wonderfully accurate. Thank you and happy birfday.
xoxoxox
NOW GO FLOSS
Nikki says:
Done! LOL! And thanks again.
Nikki says:
Thanks, Susan. You are so right.