We are creative and artistic because we believe we are. When we choose to be gracious with ourselves and invite the child within to come out to play we “create” a warm and inviting environment for her to explore, among other things, her creative and artistic abilities. Too often we’re too quick to claim, “I don’t have a creative bone in my body!” Bone structure has nothin’ to do with it - although a good set of bones is nice to have. I confess, I followed the latter belief until after which a few short years ago I made at least three trips to the art store, each filled with anxiety overwhelmed by all the different brushes (filbert, round, flat, liner, fan – yikes!).

Finally, I pushed through the barrier and bought a couple paint brushes and bottles of acrylic paint. I figured at best I would indulge my curiosity and at least, have a little fun and a hearty chuckle or two. Fun and a good chuckle are healthy for the soul! Much to my surprise, and continued delight, I could paint, intuitively. A few weeks later I leased space in a boutique and began to sell my work. Then, a friend and mentor suggested I begin to illustrate. “Me, draw? Nooo. I can barely draw stick people!” I exclaimed. Lo and behold, I went out that day and purchased a set of watercolor pencils and created my first watercolor rendering, “ Tess,” named for another friend. This piece remains a favorite. It just goes to show it’s never too late to graciously receive and unwrap the gifts God has for us, or to learn something new about oneself.

I believe it is important to listen to the prompting of one’s spirit, weave a ladder of dreams and climb – climb as far and as high as you dare. Be courageous! Have faith! Aspire! Now, as I weave my ladder of dreams, I step up another rung, heeding the call of my spirit and bring to you my work, my heart, and my soul.