Just getting started...

I've been on a personal quest for the last three (and almost four) years now.  I've been seeking happiness, but hasn't everyone, really?  It's a life-long pursuit...but sometimes we get so caught up in the particular circumstances and trials of our lives that we forget the basic concept that we should be happy in whatever we do.  No, not everything is great, wonderful, and fun, but even the most difficult situation could be the next stepping stone into a higher level of fulfillment and understanding...if we just learn the lesson the challenge has to offer.  Sometimes the lesson is just to be thankful for what you've got.  Maybe what you've got or achieved doesn't seem like a lot, and maybe it seems like others have more or are getting ahead with less struggle...but that's the trap -- comparing your journey to that of someone else.

The thing I came to realize several years ago was that I create when I'm happy, and I'm happy when I create.  Maybe that means I've caught on to what I was destined to do.  It might not be creativity for you.  Do you know what your thing is?  Give it a little thought.  What makes you happy?  What fulfills you in a lasting way?  You'll know it when you find it.  I'm not suggesting some thoughtless hedonistic pursuit, irresponsible lifestyle, unending list of adrenalin-inducing experiences, or accumulation of material possessions.  It's not any of the typical distractions we as humans chase in a futile attempt to "fill the void."  I can't tell you what it is for you.  Neither can anyone else...but you can figure it out.  Best wishes for that, and be encouraged in your journey.

My journey has taken me through training in fine arts at the college level.  I've experimented with various media, but creative exploration of the last several years has been in the area of art quilting.  A couple years ago I joined a group of art quilters, as well as traditional quilters who want to explore art quilting, at my local quilt shop.  The group was welcoming right from the start and has been very encouraging.  We have monthly challenges or other learning opportunities.  I hope to share some of those creations.