I've been going for my Bachelors for almost two years now, and I should be graduating in just about two years, so I'm half way there. It's been an interesting trip so far. I think I would had done a lot of things differently if I could go back, but I can't. I don't regret the choices though. They all led me to where I am now, and I am happy with that, so I'm thankful. Yule has come and gone, and the new year is fast approaching. I've been working on my own art for the past few days off. Enjoying myself, and making art gifts for family, and redecorating the house. It's been a short year really, and while things never got so tough too handle, they did get a bit stressful. I'm thankful I have my family so close, my friends back in my life, and my job and school is going strong.

I'm also thankful I've kind of seen the direction I would like to go in the art field. I changed my major last quarter to Visual Effects and Motion Graphics. I think that it will be a bit more marketable where I live, and a bit more enjoyable for me as well. I enjoyed the animation and rendering aspect of media animation, but it just didn't fit who i wanted to become in the art industry. Also, being in Vegas I think it will be a bit more market friendly, and easier to appeal to the audience for hiring me. In this economy, I will need all the help I can get!

Last quarter went well. I tried online classes for the first time. It was interesting and frustrating, and nerve wracking all at the same time, but I got through it with an A on both subjects. I finaly got an A in an Anderson class, and I got an A in painter, the program I love to hate. I've found myself going back to illustrator more than I ever thought I would, and really enjoying it. Also, I've tried some more traditional work this quarter, such as pencil work, and sculpture. I think the pressure of animation and having characters has lifted from me, and I'm enjoying art more now because of it. I feel more at home in Effects.

In other news I've been busy cooking and cleaning all week. I'm enjoying the beauty of family so close, and fun meals to share with them. Finally got a food processor, so it makes it all that much more fun trying out new recipes with it! Good times.

Over all, 2008 was a good year, but I'm looking ahead and hoping 2009 will be better. I hope it is more stable, more family and friend packed, and more laughs and sharing. I think things will be good.

~Nae