how I found my path - a day in a rural cabin in winter 

To the parents out there…YOU are your child’s biggest chance at becoming secure and whole as an adult much sooner in life than most. My mother to this day calls my art “kitschy” (in poor taste, garish, too sentimental) and even though I am middle aged, even though I have been published, even though my art has been in one of the toughest juried exhibition TWICE and in a museum both times and in collections on five continents …her words still make me feel inferior and stupid. Paola has definitely been encouraged by her beautiful family, and I would like to tell her parents WELL DONE on raising such a beautiful soul!

Sending some festive vibes and loving light this December ❄️ Feliz Navidad if you a celebrating, and happiest of holidays if you are celebrating something else. When I use the term ‘ordinary’ here, I mean it in a very positive way, something that most of us feel at some point. While every single one of us can usually pinpoint something about ourselves that isn’t so ‘ordinary’ - being an attribute or interest that isn’t common - I am not referring to this. Instead, it is feeling like you are one of many people trying to succeed in a field, and not being able to stand out in the ways you hoped for. Maybe we are all facing the same doubts and questions in regards to our path. Realizing that you have limitations and some things are not possible, even if you work hard. In my case, I always wanted to be a scholar and writer, and yet couldn’t find the success I wanted as a student. I competed with others who didn’t even see me as competition. After accepting that being the best was less important than I thought, I found - at least for me - the key was to just embrace my story, and find ways to innovate within the confines of my world. Skills and talents are such relative things, most are immeasurable. I am not the most knowledgeable video creator I know, nor the most skilled artist, I’ve done poorly on IQ tests, been a horrible athlete (truly horrible). But most of these things are about defining talent by someone else’s standards instead of my own. I eventually got this youtube channel to pick up this year, and it’s been an incredible and unexpected blessing. I got very lucky, but this opportunity would have never appeared if I had continued competing with others instead of embracing my own path and taking advantage of opportunities I did have, instead of dwelling on those I didn’t. I’m not sure any of this makes sense at all, I feel like I’m rambling here - but I wanted to share some affirmations for the New Year, hoping it provides you with renewed hope and excitement for another trip around the sun, and ready to embrace all the possibilities. Maybe it isn’t about being extraordinary or ordinary, this or that, but being the best you ❤️ and that will always be one-of-a-kind.

Girl, let me tell you something, there’s nothing average about your content, lifestyle or you, trust me! You make everyday life look like a fairy tail.

"It isn't a competition if you choose not to participate..." These words filled this attorney/energy healer with such relief- I will continue to trust that a viable path that suits my spirit will unfold for me...thank you and blessings to you and yours.

When parents feel the need to tell me about how each of their children is a genius and star soccer player and piano prodigy I turn to them and say my children are wonderfully average. They always look shocked and they don’t know what to say. I find it wonderfully amusing. And yes my kids actually are average according to test scores, etc. but they are also truly amazing human beings who I adore just for them being them.

"A flower does not think of competing to the one next to it - it just blooms". I think that being on the internet makes it really hard to stay confident and trusting in your own unique abilities; we are bombarded by all the things that everyone is doing all the time, and sometimes it takes a gentle and loving reminder like this to remember that people's lives are more nuanced than the fear of comparison will ever tell us. Thank you Paola 💙

This made me cry. It made me realize I gave up on myself so much over the course of the past few years, especially this past year. I graduated college in 2019 and was so jaded by the end of it that I purposely haven't talked to any of my classmates, even the ones I was close with, while I saw online that they would continue to build their careers. They have gone on to do really remarkable things even in the midst of the pandemic. I shriveled up and closed myself off to the world. Even my closest friends seem out of reach. I've lost a lot interest in the things I used to care about (or so I thought I did) and I've lost a lot of contacts and connections I had in the field. I am scared to carve out a path in this world because I'm afraid to be disappointed. All the writing on the wall and people in my life since I was a kid has said that I was going to do something really remarkable or go far or succeed at something and that's just not the reality of it. I don't doubt that I'm capable of such a feat, but I don't see the point anymore. The expectations of teachers and classmates are gone, and there's no need to have a competitive edge anymore. Without an external motivation, I feel no drive to amount to something great, because in the past my success was validated by external praise (grades, teacher's comments, coworkers, etc). The thought of being average at one time felt like a death sentence, and now it's all I want. And for the first time, someone has finally been able to put into words what I've been thinking and discovering in the past year and a half. I finally feel understood to know that someone else get is. Update: 12/25/2022 I'm still amazed that this comment I posted ten months ago is still getting attention, and I guess a lot of that has to do with the nature of the video being finding your path (a timeless question for so many people). With that in mind, I wanted to give an update to my situation. Things continued to suck. For a while. I continued my cycle of life feeling bleak. There was a point where I really was about to give up on finding a career permanently and just resign to having a simple job and living at home with my family for a very long time (Nothing wrong with this or anyone who chooses this path, it's just not what I wanted). But then, things slowly changed. And it wasn't really even my own doing. It's not like I deliberately made decisions in an attempt to better my life, I just did things because it sounded like a good idea at the time. In April, I matched with a guy on Hinge. I don't even know why I had a Hinge profile, I hate the concept of online dating. I think I was curious and experimenting with it again. I forgot I even had it on my phone. And I happened to open it up one day and the next thing I know we went on a first date and now we've been together for seven months. Truly wild. It happened when I was least looking for it or expecting it. We are both each other's first serious relationship. Then in summer I went back to my old summer camp job for the first time since COVID, but it wasn't fun at all. Strict COVID protocol and understaffing made it nearly impossible to relax and have fun. I left that summer realizing that the things that camp gave me years ago that allowed me grow as a person were not the things I needed anymore. I enrolled in a certificate course for Assistive Technology because I knew I liked tech and helping people and it would give me something to do and hopefully be useful at some point in the future. The course was okay, kind of boring at times. But this came in handy later. I got home from camp that summer and decided to work towards my teaching license for K-5 elementary. I figured even if I hated it, I could just deal with it later. But I needed to do SOMETHING to move forward. This wasn't panning out right away, so then I started to apply to other districts as a sub. I got hired in one and then two days later I got a call from the Director of Special Services saying "I have a job for you if you want it. I haven't asked anyone else yet. You've been recommended highly by HR and I want you." It happened when I was least looking for it or expecting it. Next thing I knew, I became an aide to a student who has multiple disabilities, such as 100% blindness and brittle bone disease. There is much more to this student but I don't want to share online for the sake of privacy. But I've been working with him for two months and he is amazing. This is my favorite job I've ever had. It's incredibly frustrating some days and it's incredibly rewarding some days. Now the Director of Special Services is helping me figure out my next steps for further education/licensure. So what is there to learn from my story? It's hard not to chalk it all up to luck, because it sure does feel like it. But I also don't want to chalk it all up to education or skill either, because that's sure not it either. I guess, it was just little steps forward. Nor huge or momentous things. just tiny decisions that lead to one another that I didn't even realize were helping me down the road. I'm hesitant to give advice because I've still got such a long way to go in life. But, if I must, in summary: don't give up (or do, and then take it back), and keep moving forward in small tiny baby steps. Something will become clear eventually. It's just a long eventual. And that long eventual really hurts after a while. I get it. I feel you. Caring without reciprocation hurts. Just find something to keep you going.

“Not understanding that the limitations of one dance academy didn’t mean that I couldn’t continue to enjoy ballet.” That right there was one of many soft yet powerful statements you made in this video. Paola, your words throughout the video were so heartwarming and helpful in so many ways. Wishing you the best of holidays with your family. 💛

I am 54 years old and currently (still) struggling to find my path and acquire self-acceptance. Thank you for your wise words and lovely videos! I appreciate you!

"I am my own category." I am taking that sentence of yours with me into the day. I wish you and your loved ones the Peace and the Joy of the Holiday Season now and throughout the coming New Year.

This is it - I am not weird, I am not strange, people like me do exist and want the same as i do - quiet and peaceful life away from everyone, solitude. Trying to figure out what i want and who i am, not what others have told me about myself. Thank you, i felt such a relief and peace and rest after watching your videos❤👍🙋‍♀️Wish you all the best!

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” Maya Angelou One of my favorite quotes. One of my favorite movies is Hope Floats. The main character (played by Sandra Bullock) husband has just left her for her best friend. In high school she and her husband where the most popular (homecoming queen and football star) and rode on floats for homecoming parade. She is devastated at the break up after many years of marriage. She is talking to her mom, says she taught they were “special”. Her mom replied maybe they were ordinary and just happen to be riding on a trailer covered in toilet paper. That is one of my favorite lines from a movie. We should all be our own very special ordinary.

Paola, At 74 years of age, and having lived a life full of fascinating, talented, and successful people I've met all over the world I must assure you that you are in no way average! You are an exceptional human, who inspires and motivates me and so many others with your art, gentleness, and thoughtful humanity. You have discovered early that winning as defined by society means that others must lose! Thank you for taking us along on your journey. We all win when watching your reflections and art. Happy winter to you and your family.

I love your comment "I am trying to live a quiet and meaningful life." That really resonated with me. Due to an injury I ended up retiring early and during covid that meant being alone most of the time. But little by little I am learning to find joy in the exquisite little beautiful things around me...feeding my birds and squirrels and I am learning to enjoy my own company. I am finding new neighbors blocks away that love to chat and I am helping to clean the environment around me out on the streets of St Louis. Everything you said gave me peace of mind and heart and I appreciate the fact that you are such a wise person at such a young age! And by the way I think your art is absolutely breathtaking! Thank you so much Paola!

Your words spoke to me "It isn’t a competition if we choose not to participate." Thank you. Wonderfully made gingerbread house! I paused the video multiple times to enjoy the scenery and the details. The dress reminds me more of a dress in "Alice in Wonderland". And there are lots of bunnies :)

I have to say I found you by accident and I'm so glad I did. Your voice alone is very soothing. My life changed drastically when my husband died last year and since then I've been searching for my place in this life. So hard to do when everything is so different now. But your refreshing ways of looking at life and into yourself has really given me hope and incentive to keep trying. So thank you for your beautiful videos. I hope you keep sharing. 🙏 🤗🥰

It’s help to remind myself that *MY PATH IS ALWAYS UNFOLDING* therefore, I will constantly be “finding it.” 🤗💚

You‘ve really hit on something that has become out of hand these days- with social media allowing us to present ourselves unrealistically, many people want to be extraordinary. Being “average” isn’t less. I chose to stop auditioning for big opera houses. I didn’t like working in them. I wanted to put on my own shows, in nice costumes, and offer people fairytale escapes for a while. Some people, very close to home, are disappointed in me for this. But actually, everyone else is having a nicer time. Happy Christmas, Paola. I love bunnyrabbit pictures and fairytale videos, too 🐰 🧚‍♀️

Hi Paola, I want to share with you your art really has been a huge blessing in my life. I have severe anxiety that tends to worsen at night, and your videos have been one of the only ways for me to feel at peace enough to rest. Thanks for sharing your beautiful videos, you never know the impact your art can have on others.

Being able to express your thoughts and feelings so beautifully in this video is a talent to me. You are enough.

Merry Christmas, Paola. Your channel has delighted me all year long. I’m 74 and you have inspired me to try watercolors for the first time. I missed out on art classes in school and am looking at my tablet of blank watercolor papers and brushes with some trepidation, but I’m also excited. As a writer, I have always envied those who could tell a story through their art. You, my dear, create beautiful art on paper and in words. Blessings to you and yours in the new year. Wish me luck!

I wrote a journal entry for one of my essays describing how average I am. My professor at the time had a hard time understanding it. But I still identify as being average after all these years. I'm not a specialist in anything and it has made it hard to find that special job that will really value what I can bring. I do believe however, that despite my "non-speciality", that I bring kindness, compassion, thoughtfulness, care, and lots of love and I've found that these qualities are rarer and thus, more valuable than them all.

One of my favourite things about life and self exploration is that we just don’t know what small choices, or big ones, will actually bring. Doors open, secret passages reveal themselves, and the most grievous “mistakes” can ink a map to treasure we never knew existed. We shift, we change, we shrink, we grow. And as long as we are honouring what we need to feel fulfilled and joyous we very rarely make real errors. It’s when we force a path or take on characters or personas that we are “supposed” to be that regret can creep in like a monster under the bed waiting for our vulnerable moments to pounce.

I can't begin to tell you how you fed my soul with your wisdom here. My eyes teared up and a truth gong rang in my heart when you mentioned releasing striving to be the best and just enjoy what you're doing. I'm a writer and can get so caught up in peer evaluations that any harsh word can stomp out my joy and I quit writing for weeks or months. I have since learned to keep my rough drafts to myself. I now see peer edits as helpful for finished pieces, but not for the museful magic still under construction. Such a feeling of peace came over me as I observed your careful construction of the gingerbread house and its delightful touches coming together. You bring so much beauty into the world, Paola. Thank you for sharing your gifts.

I remember many years ago at a party someone saying that they felt they were destined for greatness. They were being very sincere and so was I when I told them that I was not! I always knew that I could affect people, but on a one on one basis. I was never going to change the world with one great act, but that I had the ability to change the world around me with many small acts. They looked very sad for me but I assured them this was not a failure on my part but a very fulfilling reality. It is a gift to know what you were placed on this earth for and I had realized this early in my life (20s). Now at 62 I look back in my life and see the difference I have made in many peoples’ lives and it gives me joy that being ordinary and kind and doing my best has been fruitful. Thank you Paola for your insights and artistry this year. They have given me great joy and my soul peace. Merry Christmas my dear and hope the coming year exceeds your expectations. ❤️🇨🇦

*Comparison is the thief of joy...* I'm so happy that you came to accept your talents for what they are and didn't let the disappointments of the past hold you back from continuing to try! 🐰 Otherwise, we might not get to experience the wonderful magic of your videos and art today. Much love, hugs and a very merry Christmas from Scotland 💛

This is the most comforting video I've ever watched... I'm currently a first year college student and deeply unhappy with what I'm doing. Due to the pandemic I have next to no contact with any other students or teachers - I am alone for the first time in 18 years. In high school I was always praised by my teachers and parents for my good grades and my writing, saying I would amount to something great and that I should definitely pursue it. But now that I seemingly have all the possibilities in the world at my feet, all I seem to want to do is build a home for me within myself, enjoy the quiet and give love and comfort to people. Your videos have been an essential part of my little journey of realization, so thank so so much for all of the love you put into them

You’re not just ordinary, you’re EXTRAORDINARY🤗 you’re completely yourself and not afraid to share to the world your whimsical and beautiful art poetry and personality. You also started your own small business and are living the life you want. That’s amazing in itself. I know you are an inspiration to many people, just look at all those wonderful comments on your videos. I hope you have a happy holiday. See you in the next video.

This video was much required. I am always so scared of being only average. But I'm trying everyday to not compare myself with others and accept and embrace who I am instead ❤️

I am FINALLY coming back into my own after a few decades of doing what everyone else expected. My art and being creative has always been so important to me, it's the light in me. I am also a huge space geek, and changed careers 3 years ago to work in the aerospace field, a field I was told I was too "dumb" to even attempt, many years ago. I love it! I'm finding what balances me makes me happy and everyone else can go happily on their way. My art will never be sold nor admired, but it is so valued by me and I love to look at it, everyday!

I'm from Houston, too! There's more snow every winter now than while I was growing up in the 70's. I live in the mountains of northern New Mexico now and understand snow a lot better. I've had similar challenges through the years, except for being too tall for anything. :) My path changed from what I wanted when I became a stay at home mom to a son with severe autism, the middle of 3 kids. He's now 26 and visiting us for the holidays from his group home. There are some changes I might have made to my life, but I wouldn't be who I am today if I had made them. And, overall, I like who I am.

Ms. Potter, the movie, shows a similar issue and how tediously disheartening it can be, but also how heartwarming sincere appreciation can be. A common truth is that some parents find it very difficult to give what they did not experience themselves, and some just don't see their blind spots. It took me a long time to forgive many things until I understood that dearth on their side. It did not excuse their wrongs at all (wrong is wrong), but logically I can see how difficult it is to learn for oneself things that are missed during upbringing. And artists have not been appreciated much this generation, or the prior two unless fame or lucrative sales accompanied it. Frankly, those have little to do with art's value to the individual. Blessings!

This brought tears to my eyes. You have an extraordinary heart, soul, perspective, and talent. I find healing in your creations and reveries. God bless you, my Dear.

Finding someone who, like me, enjoys being average has said out loud what I have wanted to share with others but was afraid to is so comforting and life affirming!

I truly feel like life sets us up for failure and even if it's not "failure" from an outside perspective, we can sometimes see ourselves as a failure for not measuring up to some intangible bar that has been implicitly set for us. I find the biggest hurdles to overcome in life are not comparing my journey to anyone else's and not using age as a barometer of where we should be in life. Those things will inevitably cause us a lot of inner turmoil.

As a long-term bunny owner, I'd venture to say that any "bunny fairy" art you could create would be priceless. (I known I speak for all bunny parents.)

For someone like me who has little to no artistic abilities, your art is endearing and totally magical. The way you make these videos and tell your story makes this channel one of my favorites. Just wanted to let you know that your work is inspiring and lovely, and that in itself is enough. Felices Fiestas^^

I feel like the education system, social media and primarily, capitalism promotes competition. Somewhere down the line, we're just lost aiming to be better and to be loved and respected by many. I wish society would encourage each individual going on their own path, taking their time to settle, and walk in this beautiful journey called life.

"Authenticity" is my word for the upcoming year and you have encouraged me with "I am my own category". Love , love the dress and the cape!! Have a beautiful holiday and winter season and thank you for spreading your love and joy.

"You could have all the book knowledge of the world, be a budiness tycoon, solve the mysteries of the planet, but if you can't figure out how to be happy, or love unconditionally, then aren't you missing something worth knowing? Doesn't your intelligence fail you at a crucial point?" That struck a chord. Ty❤

Can totally relate. All my life I’ve been an ‘inbetweener’. I figured I was not talented enough to stand out in a crowd of ‘actually’ talented people nor did I feel completely lacklustre to where I could comfortably give up on my ambitions. In time, I embraced the uncertainty, the insecurity, the ordinary and mundane nature of life, but the extraordinary and almost magical way we can shape our own minds and reality, the moment we lean into the bits of us that many other have passed over. I’m completely ordinary. But I think the prospects for an extraordinary life are limitless!

Personally, I would go to a museum filled with what you just made! So magical. Love your videos.

I couldn’t possibly say anything different than all the comments before mine because they’ve said it all, but I’ll try. You are extremely talented and I feel strongly that the best is yet to come for you. Your videos bring such peace and joy to my heart, and other’s hearts, when watching them. Not everyone has that talent, it’s a gift. And, I absolutely love to watch you paint so beautifully beautiful and you make it look so easy. The dress is gorgeous! Your life seems like a dream, magical. Many wishes for a safe and happy holiday. It’s heart warming to hear how much you miss your sister. 🌲⛄️❄️ you are a blessing for many.

I really appreciate this message of the power of ordinariness. About three years ago I left a zen monastery that I had planned on ordaining at. The transition out caused an long period of reckoning where I had to face my ordinariness. I had worked so hard and so long to be extraordinary. I had all these ideas about who I would become and it all crumbled. But I am so GRATEFUL. There is nothing more beautiful than being one among many and being a part of a collective story rather than the main character. I feel like ordinariness is the source of genuine compassion because I feel like I am struggling in this life alongside so many. I would so much rather be in this ordinary place than extraordinarily alone. 💚

As a dreamer still finding her path , “thank you” thank you so much.

I consider myself uniquely average and enjoy that place. When our goal is to be exceptional or above average, we put a lot of pressure on ourselves to maintain that position and possibly miss out on the finer, more purer details in life. And, quite often, when we are being our uniquely average selves, we end up excelling in quite unexpected ways. I call it simplistic beauty, of which you, Paola, embody. Thank you for the lovely video. Happy Holidays. 🎄☃️🦉

I too am thinking a lot about my journal. I quit my job of 21 years recently, based on a sudden (thunderclap) decision one day that I couldn't be in that situation anymore. My ensuing journal entries were alive and colorful, making me realize the story of me was unfolding through my written words as they hit paper; and that we all are living a fairy story of sorts that should be acknowledged. I want to embrace my journaling whole-heartedly in the new year; to translate my "journal" into a "journey". Thank you for sharing your journey!

Cottage fairy: im average * Proceeds to make a nonaverage gingerbread house *

When things seem way more complex than they need to be, your channel reminds that life really simple. We insist on complicating it.

Hello Paola: It has always amazed me that people look back, review their errors in judgement or lost opportunities, and feel remorse over all of that; when instead, they should be realizing and celebrating the wisdom they have since gained that allows them to now see more clearly. I wish you all the joy and comfort of this holiday season, along with health, happiness and personal fulfillment in the coming year. Oh, and by the way...you ARE a fairy princess to your viewers. 👍👍❤❤🧚‍♀️

Thank you for this encouraging video! I sometimes wear medieval or pioneer clothes in public, and just tell others they're my regular clothes if they ask. I once saw a young woman wearing 1940's style clothes (down to the stockings, shoes and lipstick and hair) and she looked so amazing! We have the freedom to dress how we want these days. It's awesome.

People are usually ordinary all the way up ‘til they do or say something completely themselves… and they are revealed to have been extraordinary the whole time modestly dressed up as ordinary. Our lives are full of wonders and surprise just beneath our ordinary surface, thank you for sharing a bit of yours with us. 🙂

I had two rejections at a young age that affected my self worth for decades. Looking back, it is so sad that those moments distorted my adolescence instead of helping me blossom. It has taken a long time to accept being uniquely myself and embracing my imperfections. Thank you so much for your beautiful, wise videos.

After spending a year with a lot of grief, losing loved ones to the pandemic and other misfortunes, I always get more emotional at this time of year. I was thinking of making gifts for my dear ones, handcrafted, and I wanted to thank you. His dedication to the channel is visible. When I'm really sad I always go back to your videos because I know I find comfort in listening to your stories. The way you show this side of life is very inspiring. Thanks for not making me forget that I'm like that too, it's the most powerful protection I have in the midst of so many consecutive storms.

Thank you for your lovely message. Even at this great age of 77 your words mean so much....may 2022 bring you much happiness, contentment and a wonderful life. ❤

We are all talented in our own way. You my dear are incredibly wise. You've discovered a truth that takes some people their whole life to figure out- be true to yourself. Also your videos bring a lot of people a sense of peace and calm and joy. And that is no small thing ❤️

As a person with two previous careers, I’ve found that I’m totally average. I’m glad that you point out that we don’t have to excel at all we do in order to be happy with life. I hate competing…

I embraced my average-ness many years ago, and was happy in it. But moving back with my mother has destroyed my self-confidence and my confidence in the decisions I've made for myself. Your words at the end of this video, I needed to hear. About not beating up yourself for decisions you've made, now knowing you shouldn't have made them. My ex & I chose to stay in a failing relationship much longer than we should have, because of the pain of separation. It's so hard. I've cried so much today. But your words, and the words of my friends, have been a big help.

I simply love your channel. Everything about your videos is like therapy for my soul; the music, the gentleness, the beauty. Your cinematography is stunning. But what's most is your heart; your soul and your mind. The wisdom you are sharing in this video is so healing. The acceptance of our "ordinary-ness" and the freedom it brings. Thank you! After watching some of your videos last night, I determined to use my fine china tea cups for my morning tea today, to enjoy the beauty of simple things.

This video is in the top 5 of my favorites! It resonated deep inside. So many times when you voice your realizations, I'm amazed that one so young could come to such wisdom so early in life! I'm 60 and I still grapple with the same issues!! Please keep sharing your pearls of wisdom; the world needs them.

You brought tears into my eyes Paola, just what I needed. Thank you so much for these words ❤ will treasure them forever in my heart. "Eventually you will end up where you need to be, with whom you meant to be with, and doing what you should be doing." ☃️ Be grateful Paola and I know you cuz even you can see how magically simple your life is. You too must have your own struggles. But always know that your life is something millions of dreamers dream about.🌟 There's a quote I found from a Disney movie saying, "when one can see no future, all one can do is the next right thing." The day I watched it turned out to be life changing cuz I carried it although then.❄☃️ May you have a wonderful December filled with love. Merry Christmas to you and your family. 🌲😊 Just look at your gingerbread house dear, I fell in love with it so much that it turned out to be a direct call to my inner child.❤ Spread your creativity to the world Paola. Be happy.🌟"It's been my experience that you can nearly always enjoy things if you make up your mind firmly that you will.📚 Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables (Anne of Green Gables, #1)

Every week here we are gifted something beautiful to see & meaningful to think about. It is such a valuable few minutes I often revisit through the week. I have, like so many others who have commented so, come to very much look forward to these brief encounters, always wishing for more but grateful for what we get. No one on this platform does it better. Thank you.

Wow Paola! Love this video!!! As a woman who is pulling up on 50 years old, I have been looking back at the mistakes I've made in my past, and YES you are right! I was doing the best I could. THANK YOU for saying it so plainly and for being a beautiful bright spot on the internet. I hope you enjoy your family and have a very magical holiday season! ❤️

Your ballet story reminded me so much of my own experience as a child with violin lessons. When I was six years old I desperately wanted to play an instrument and I begged my mother to enroll me in violin lessons, I played for about a year and finally, my teacher told me she did not want to teach me anymore as she said I did not practice enough and was just not cut out for it. The worst part about it was was that I did actually practice most days and I genuinely enjoyed playing, my Wednesday night lessons were my favorite part of the week. Time passed and I went on to join band and played the trumpet for about six years, I ended up becoming pretty decent but I still missed strings and regretted not keeping up with it in my childhood. When I realized you could join orchestra as a beginner I signed right up and now I have been playing the violin for 2 1/2 years. I actually ended up quitting the trumpet which my family thought I was crazy for doing, why would I give up an instrument that I could play to just be a beginner at one of the hardest instruments to learn? The answer was that playing the violin made me happy. At this point I am still just an advanced beginner and no I cannot fully play a concerto or a complex solo but it doesn't really matter to me. Would I be good by now if I stuck with it from the start? Probably, but again it's never too late to start and do what makes you happy. As you said in the video don't let others steer you off your path. Your life is what you make it don't let others live it for you.

Paola you've been a constant reminder to me that life could be lived simply and yet we could still feel real happiness on it. Keep going we are here with you

Paola, you possess a brilliance, a wisdom, and an exqusite quality of beauty I thought did not exist anymore. Thank you for the affirmations. We need this now.

Her videos give me so much peace and joy. I sort of feel fulfilled and like I belong xD these videos give me hope that a fairy life like hers can be real, and that people like her really do exist

After all those times of not being 'the best', little did you know(?) that it would be your soothing voice(over) and uplifting and encouraging words that would stand out, and be exceptional.

Looking back over 60 years, there were times I tried so hard to stand out... To be a cut above the rest, and it never worked. It was when I wasn't trying... Creating something I loved, or giving an impromptu speech about something dear to my heart, that's when the "magic" happened. Applause, appreciation, even awards, while I stood there like a deer on the headlights...Huh? What just happened?!? While these successes were temporarily thrilling, and my ego soared, it couldn't compare to taking on other challenges, such as raising a child with disabilities to go on to an independent life. No applause, no awards, but an inner joy that is indescribable. If you make an impact on someone's life through videos, art, community projects, or just getting up everyday to do something no one else notices...if that is "average" may we all be so.

As John Lennon said " Life happens while we are busy making other plans ". You are still bringing much joy and love to many others by being yourself ,this takes courage . Sending you and all The Cottage Fairy family The Compliments of the Season .

No matter how average you think you are, your soul is extraordinary

Just know that all of us are Talented , gifted and Unique! There is nobody who is average ( unless we compare ourselves to others that’s when we get blinded and we don’t see our true authentic selves ! Actually those who are the most authentic and talented usually don’t see how amazing they are ! Let’s just appreciate who we are and be proud of ourselves ! And remember never underestimate your authenticity ! Your talent and your power !! We all are one ! All just trying to live our life in our own special ways ! Wishing you The best !! All of you !! ❤️🎆❤️🎆🥳🙏🙏

You create beauty, peace, and quiet joy with your art, thank you for making the world more beautiful.

Paola, every week somehow it seems like you're saying exactly what I need to hear. Your kindness and gentleness are such a blessing. You're the only RU-vidr I watch regularly, because your videos always slow me down, make me breathe, and help me feel a little more whole, instead of more scattered, after I watch them. A very happy holiday season to you and yours!

Yes!!! Babies are born without a fully developed nervous system. They develop their own safety and security and soothing abilities off of their parents’ nervous systems and attachments. It’s imperative to have an attuned and regulated parent to get a head start for a healthy and secure life as an adult. Yes!

I struggle with the expectations my parents and community have set before me, especially when my deepest dream is to simply be with a little homestead and garden. It’s very disappointing to them, but Becoming Nobody is liberating. I recommend it for everyone. I love this content and wish blessings on all for the new year

You look like you just stepped out of a fairy tale in that beautiful gown. You are such a stunning person, in every way. ❤️

I can't explain to you what your words mean to me and how much you are giving me through these videos. Merry Christmas my friend 🎄

I love 💕 your videos! 📽️ Great Camera Direction! Great Story Telling!

I can't even think of the words to describe how your lovely life enhances my lovely life. 🙂 Thank you. Blessings.

Paola, average certainly does not come to my mind when I watch your life unfold in your wonderful videos! Years ago I used to talk to grade school and high school classes. I told them not to believe everything their teacher told them and to never let someone else use their measuring stick to judge you. Life is an adventure if you’re willing to travel it. Without downs, we’d never enjoy ups. Feliz navidad y próspero año nuevo. ¡Te ves absolutamente hermosa con tu vestido azul!🎄🎄🙏🏼

The most beautiful gift we can give to the world is the gift of our true selves. I am really enjoying your channel as many are. We love the real you.....you give us a magical gift every time you pick up your camera. Sharing your delightful life. You touch my heart & I thank you. Have a blessed week. Love & Light from Washington state 💖 🌟🥰

This is so relaxing after the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season. I’d enjoy an audio book read by you as your voice is very soothing.

Your gingerbread house is way above average! Just like everything you do. Blessed be this yuletide.

Deep wisdom as always! Beautiful gingerbread house and decor. As Tasha Tudor once said, I believe some of us were born in the wrong century and we long for the clothes and ways of our ancestors (me included). Keep being you! We love watching you be you! Merry Christmas!

Your gown is beautiful! The gingerbread house was so pretty and I love the miniature details. You are incredibly kind and an inspiration. I sincerely hope you enjoy your family visiting. May the New Year bring you great joy.

Always at the right time, just when I need to hear such kind and wise words. Thank you! You are so helpful when it comes to keeping good mental health. I adore your videos! 💜

I just love your art and creativity! ❤ And you have a great view on life and being a human. Wonderful video as always, thank you!

You are dear fairy, a spring of happiness! The blue color of your dress is my ever time favorite . Thank you so much for the happy and festive vibes you are sending, and for your wise words as well! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2022! Love from Sri Lanka!

Mistakes are a gift from which we learn. Each decision, thought enacted, path taken leads us to here. I can look back on my life and see how it all brought me to where I am now. And I wouldn't change any of it. Yes there were sad times, challenging times, mistakes made...and it all lead me to the life I live now. I see my growth and wisdom along each step. Life is teaching me well. All the best to you Paolo. Absolutely love your heartfelt messages.

You've figured out the way to a happy life much sooner than I did. Growing up, the films we watch and the pop stars we listen to teach us that being famous and/or wealthy is the path toward true happiness. While there may be some perks to both, neither can bring true, complete happiness. Congrats! P.S. You're art always amazes me! And I'm sure you were a beautiful little ballet dancer!

Your videos are sort of magical with the music, philosophical narration and beautiful scenery. I find them very restful and serene. Please continue making them.

I cried as I watched you write "The Fairy Cottage" on your gingerbread house. It was so perfect! I have done nothing noteworthy in the world but raising my family and I think finding one's happiness is what life is all about. I love your videos. They are always beautiful and I love the fun element you bring to them. Merry Christmas, dear❤

Loved everything about this video your dress, the warm fire while the snow is piling up outside and of course the gingerbread house with with all the little furniture. Also I love your honesty and inspiring us just to be content with being ourselves as it’s good enough. Merry xmas

It is impossible for me not to feel inspired to create when watching your videos, and that is actually something I realized I needed. Thank you.

Yes! Even at 45 years old, Paola, there are uncertain choices to be made. Thank you for this. It was a beautiful way to look at difficult moments of courageous change.

Paola, my motto is "life is what happens while we are making other plans!" I think that is what you are describing in the first part of this video. Merry Christmas and thank you for just being you and for the gifts you give us every week.

You are an extraordinary storyteller!! Far from average :) Always very cozy vibes and soothing voice. Thank you for sharing everything.

You are extraordinary to me! So much talent and wisdom in such a young woman! This video was so beautiful.

I just wanted to thank you, Dear, for doing what you do. Your channel is a haven of peace in the cacophony that is RU-vid. I thank God for you and the sweetness and beauty you bring into focus. May you be blessed in the year to come with joy and peace, love and encouragement. You certainly bless your viewers with those very things!