And so, we write 2026!
I typically skirt around the whole issue of setting goals and making New Year's resolutions because I tend to fail miserably at such things, and I think the pressure of having goals hanging over your head often serves as a path to resistance rather than an opening to success.
That said, I did sit down and have a good think about what I could do to make my life — my creative life, that is — better in 2026. How can I change my habits or my way of approaching creativity in a way that is not invasive and doesn't feel too much like an obligation?
In the end the most reasonable thing I could come up with was that I should do at least one creative thing every day. Or, if not every day, at least I should try never to miss more than two consecutive days.
That seems like a fairly modest goal but certainly one that is doable, because it's not specific with respect to a particular action or a particular amount of time spent, so I think I have a reasonable chance of succeeding.
Meanwhile, the domain renewal announcement came through today, so there will be another year of alchemystone.com. Not that it was ever in doubt, mind you... although it may be time for a new approach to having a web site.
What will be ending this year include the Amazon Handmade shop and the last remnants of the eBay shop. Facebook already terminated "shops" for artists and sellers, merging everything into their Facebook Marketplace.
It never really helped very much... so it's time to formally cut those ties.
Not really interested in making goals for Hive, since this blog is really just an adjunct to the web site. Not that I'm not appreciative of occasional rewards here, but my plan is basically just to let the account quietly grow at whatever pace it will.
It is still going to be a while before we start seeing dates and arrangements for any outside shows we might participate in, this year.
That said, I have already started scanning various local and regional events calendars that might list some venues we're not previously familiar with.
There's always something to look out for!
Thank You!
If you enjoy painted rocks, do check out The Hive Rocks Project and help spread the word about Hive, while also being creative!
Because I am trying to make some semblance of income — a part time living, even — I now add this footer to all my posts, in the hope that someone, somewhere, might decide to take a further look at my work, and perhaps consider supporting independent art.
Thank you, in advance, for your consideration and support!
My Alchemy Stones Patreon appeal
Alchemy Stones web site and blog
Regardless, your upvotes and comments are always appreciated!
Thank you for supporting independent art & creativity!
2026.01.02 AS-TXT-354/324