It's September 14th, and my birthday has now passed (the 5th). I've taken a bit of a hiatus of drawing-or, art in general, really. I've been absent on my socials. In truth, I think I just needed a bit of a break after the constant grind of working towards my Fine Arts degree, (which came in the mail recently!) Now, this isn't a vent post or anything so don't let my dry typing fool you.

I've learned a lot about myself within the past year. I have a full time job, but I'm chronically ill... And things are looking up. I was just diagnosed with a mild scoliosis and scheuermann's disease, after years of chronic pain, lost jobs, and near-social isolation- I am finally going to be getting physical therapy, and am addressing the problems! I am incredibly excited. I've also come to realize how my autism has shaped my life, and how I experience the world. Now I can hold space for myself, accommodate myself. Part of me grieved when I realized that it was permanent, but my partner is so supportive and anything I could ask for, really.

That being said, I'm getting married! Part of me still thinks it's 'make believe.' Maybe its because I didn't get a typical 'engagement' and a shiny ring, but I am more than happy of how we are building our own tradition. At the moment, we are both busy picking out each-other's rings, finding our outfits, our venue, and thinking up all the other little details. Regardless, I am so so excited to move forward with this and if I am to be more active on here, expect a bit more posts on this subject.

Besides all of that, I have finally started to enjoy my hobbies again. I cleaned up my little 'art studio'. At the moment, I am slowly working towards it being far more functional. Yay! I have picked up music again- namely, my trusty old violin. Instead of classical, I am now learning the folk style of fiddling. I have taken to it well, and I enjoy it far more :). Another thing I have been doing is working on my tattoo portfolio, albeit... slowly. I've found it's harder for me to paint consistently instead of being drawn towards digital just because its not as convenient and transportable. Yes, I could, so the goal is to make more trad paintings and lettering sheets/etc this coming year.

I have also been expanding on The Ebony Crown... Maybe I will post some chapters here once I'm done. ;)

For anyone who bothered to read this long post, thank you and I hope you have a lovely rest of your day/night :).