I hope you had a very merry Christmas! This holiday season has been intense and busy, but also filled with joy and celebration. There’s nothing like experiencing the magic of the holidays with my children, especially at their current ages of 2 and 4.

I’m so thankful to have this week before the New Year to spend at home with my kids before we all get back into the swing of school and work. Although they have definitely kept me on my toes (and busy cleaning up endless messes), I’ve had some time to reflect on the past year.

There have been some epic moments — like our family trip to Disney World and adults-only getaway to San Francisco — but overall, 2017 was probably the most even-keeled year I’ve had in a long time. Aside from making the decision to stop teaching lessons back in May, it’s been a year devoid of life-altering changes like new babies, huge shifts in my businesses, etc.

And for that, I am grateful. This was just the kind of year I needed after several rollercoaster years. It felt good to find stability, routine, and white space in 2017, but I started to get a bit restless. I’m ready to shake things up this coming year.

2017 was all about eliminating the things in my life that didn’t inspire and excite me. It was also about making my family my top priority, and that meant reducing my workload substantially. I’ve had time to pursue new professional projects while also being home for dinner with my kids every night, which has been an amazing combination.

My word for the year was SHARE, and I definitely feel like I let that word guide my actions over the last 12 months.

Although I didn’t blog as much as I hoped to, I opened up more than ever before when I actually did write here, as well as on my social media posts. I also shared some really vulnerable parts of myself through my Introvert’s Guide course (which I’m excited to relaunch in the coming months) and the Creative Business Breakdown podcast.

I shared my musical gifts through teaching more classes, writing more songs, and performing at a number of events throughout the year. All of those things bring me immeasurable joy and fulfillment, so I want to do even more in 2018.

But there was something else missing in 2017 that I am meant to do in the coming year…I just haven’t yet figured out what it is. For that reason, I’ve struggled to choose my word for 2018; I’m taking my time and letting it come to me instead of forcing it.

There are still a few days left before the ball drops, so I’ll continue to reflect and welcome any additional clarity. Most of all, I will enjoy the rest and comfort of home and family. I hope you’ll do the same!