Third Blogiversary + New Beginnings

This is NOT A TEST! You have entered into my world of artistry.
 

I know, I have been MIA for some time now, but a lot has happened in my personal life. I had plans on writing some blog posts regarding spending my first birthday as an Atlanta resident, my one year anniversary as a resident of Atlanta and other random posts including some podcast recordings. However, some events happened in my life to where I decided to take a mental break.
 
First, I had to experience the death of my grandfather. Since many of you do not know me personally, my grandfather was a pivotal person in my life. Growing up, my biological father was not present in my life. Watching my mother struggle to raise two kids as a single parent, my grandfather stepped in and assisted in taking care of us along with my grandmother. He gave me the experience of having a father even though I was too young to realize it.

Young Jennifer J and her grandfather, Ivory Jackson, Sr. He departed this world on June 2, 2018.

For six months, I watched his health decline rapidly. He was a man of many talents, to where I believe I get it from. He was a hard worker who believed in cherishing not only life itself but to cherish who you are as a person. Going through this process was not easy. Being away from home and my immediate family took a huge toll on me. I wasn't myself, and many of my close friends and family knew this. Now that he is gone, it is time for me to move on and continue to do what God has called me to do, which is flourishing in my ministry - artistry.
 
Instead of celebrating my birthday, one year anniversary and other accomplishments as a makeup artist, I spent them in a minor state of depression. Other events in my life besides my grandfather were in chaos as well. The job I was working at during that time had my stress levels at an all-time high, and I was unable to focus on my brand.
 
Until one day - I woke up and said to myself, "I am no longer going to let this depression take over my life". I and two of my friends decided to do a group fast for one month. When I tell you the power of God! He turned my life all the way around! During our fast, we vowed to stay committed, and we did just that. I decided to sacrifice some personal things as well as dedicated each day to journaling, which helped me release a lot of pain that I couldn't even imagine! I am so blessed that God orchestrated them to help get me back on track and I am blessed to have them as my friends.
 
Let's fast forward to today - September 7, 2018. It is my 3rd-year Blogiversary! Blogging has always been a dream of mine. Three consecutive years of blogging and putting my heart and soul into I am SohoGlam has been a dream come true.

However, God revealed to me that it is time to take my brand to the next level. In order for me to get to that level, I must change the name.

I am now pleased to present to you my upgraded brand, Jennifer J. Artistry. As I celebrate this new beginning, I am retiring my old name, and it will remain a cherished memory of where it has brought me thus far.

I am excited about my new brand. As well as my continued journey as a published professional makeup artist, beauty influencer/ambassador, blogger, and artist.  
 
I want to acknowledge all of you for believing in me as well as supporting me. Thank you all!
 
Cheers to new beginnings and the GLOW UP!

Be great and amazing,