So this would be the first time I've written in this journal. After having an account for over 2 years, I finally have decided to right some thoughts.

As 2009 comes to an end, already, I began looking back on the year and realizing that I have changed so much. I began this year at a job I hated and living a lifestyle that wasn't healthy. As the year when on, I realized I nothing was getting better...because I was not making them better. So, I completely changed EVERYTHING!

There is a saying, "You become like those you hang around", and I neglected to believe that it applied to me because I felt that I was not one of those people that would let it effect me. But, I am still vulnerable to it. I noticed the people I called friends were really NOT my friends and that I was being influenced in the wrong ways. I made a tough decision and stopped hanging out with them and started pursuing the things that I wanted to achieve for myself.

I've always had a passion for drawing, art, creating and working for myself. So, I made an even tougher decision and left the paying job that was secure to work for myself. I know, you're probably thinking that I'm crazy. Well, I think that I am a little crazy..haha! But that was about 7 months ago when I made those choices and HERE I AM. At the end of the year, I've still made it. I have been through some rough moments and some great ones which brings me to this.

Deviant Art has been an outlet for me as I'm sure it is to hundreds of thousands of other people as well. And to all my new friends, and people who have shared kind words, I just wanted to say... THANK YOU! You all ROCK! I look forward to all of 2010 and seeing art from all of you as well as sharing my creations with you!

-AK