It’s time to revive the blog, friends. I’m sitting at MSP-International, and I keep thinking back to these photos that I took in our backyard last week and this blog post that I’ve begun in my head so many times…

New growth in nature–it’s so beautiful, and so visible to us. I’ve been struck by it over and over the last couple of weeks; drawn to it. As a very introspective person, that bright green newness on the trees has made me draw in and think about my own growth this year…I’ve invested in myself by asking someone I highly respect and admire to mentor me, and with her encouragement I’ve pushed myself to do things I know I would otherwise have dragged my feet on and I’ve regained lost excitement in reaching for what I want. In February I *finally* joined a gym and signed up for personal training time which has given me guidance and helped me to keep myself accountable for doing the hard work…and it’s paying off! Yesterday I ran for 20 minutes using the Get Running app. Twnety minutes may not be much to some, but for me it’s a milestone. (Don’t make me give you the “I’m not a runner” speech!!) For the first time in a *long* time I love my workouts, and look forwad to them (even when they’re at 6am). In June I’m planning to run my first 5K, which is something I decide I wanted to do NINE years ago (!!!), and my sister-in-law will be running it too–I’m so excited of both of us!! Amidst all of this I’ve had some tough conversations that have made me face my flaws head on. It’s not easy to hear unfavorable things about yourself, whether they come from someone you love to the moon and back or someone you don’t (so much), but when you can take those words and say to yourself, ‘You know…I don’t like it one bit, but s/he’s absolutely right,’ that is when the best growth begins. Easy? No. Quick? No. Rewarding? Heck. Yes.

Today I’m travelling, for the first time ever, entirely by myself. No one is flying with me, and no one will be at the airport to greet me when I arrive. My destination?? Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and the Making Things Happen Intensive. A number of people I admire have attended past MTH Intensives, and all have come away with fantastic reviews. And while I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know Gina already, I can not wait to meet Lara and Emily tomorrow! These ladies (along with Natalie–who will be missed on this tour) have provided an incredible amount of inspiration and encouragement to me over the last two years. I love them all already.

What is it about sharing something personal that is so difficult?? I have read so many blog posts by friends and others I admire that share the sentiment of “it’s so hard to hit publish” when it comes to words that go further than surface level. This is no exception here. One of the things I want for myself is to get past that…to be able to share–beyond the surface–with others, whether it be here, via social media, or in real, face-to-face life. I have no doubt that those who know me persoanlly find this strange…I’ve certainly never been known for getting all touch-feely, but I’m learning that that kind of openness has it’s rewards.

Whether you are a new or old friend, I hope this inspires you to take a first step in reaching for something your heart wants, or encourages you to keep moving forward on a path you’ve already begun.

Cheers to the beauty in growth!!

And because everything written is better with a Phaneuf pic…

Karlene, thank you so much for spending a Sunday morning with me. I can’t wait for you to see the rest of your photos–they are some that will stick with me for a very long time.

Sommer, Tim, and Rooney, thank you so much for your participating in our contest. I had an amazing Saturday morning with the three of you–I do believe my cheeks were hurting a little from all the giggles!

P.S. Have you ever seen such adorable puppy legs?!?

The exhibition and opening reception are free and open to the public, however guests are asked to help The Pet Project by bringing unopened bags of pet food, new or gently used supplies, or a suggested donation of $5. 100% of door donations, and 80% of poster sales will benefit The Pet Project.

For more information and some sneak peeks of the amazing artwork you’ll see at the show (like the fantastic print below by Travis Olson) check out the event Facebook page!

Over the last week and a half I’ve been agonizing over which Paws on Grand attendee should get their adoreable mug in homes across the Twin Cities. Big dog or little dog? The spunky dog or the lazy mutt?? Let me tell ya, this job is fun, but it ain’t easy.

Finally, I rallied the troops (meaning I sent texts and emails out asking for more opinions), and the winner has been decided…

Congratulations to Rooney! The winner of a free photo shoot and a spot in The Pet Project‘s 2012 calendar!!

And lest you think I’m making up all of this “tough decision” business, here are a few more photos from the contest. If you’d like to see all of the competion, hop over here.