There are times in life when we go through circumstances
that are truly life-changing. Those times happened to me in the last couple of years.
Thus, 2012 has been my year of a new beginning. I didn't plan on taking a
hiatus from writing the blog but it would seem that part of the healing and
growing process would take me away from it for a time.
Funny thing, part of my new beginning involved going
back- to my hometown in Ohio. And then back in time so to speak getting
reacquainted with friends and in particular those at a class reunion.
Well, since I was “home” I decided I wanted to go to my
class reunion. The custom is to have a reunion every five years after
graduation. So with a little math I knew it was the right year for such a
gathering. The thing is- when I asked about it, there really weren't any plans.
What!!!! I was actually in town the year of a class reunion, so there HAD to be
a class reunion.
Then-I volunteered. (And immediately thought “what was I
thinking?”)
With the assistance of a classmate in Georgia, it all
came together for a successful two-day event with classmates coming from
several states. It was a great weekend, and the best part was that it seemed no
time had passed at all with the greetings and laughter heard.
Being creative can be expressed in many ways, and I found
it very satisfying to be on the planning side of the event.
I was also part of the local Relay for Life as co-chair
for the survivorship committee. We planned a reception and recognition for the
survivors and their caregivers as part of the Relay weekend of events. It was
also humbling to honor those who had fought and won the battle against such a
horrible disease. It was my first Relay, and I found it to be fun, healing, and
informative.
It was especially touching for me because I have lost
four immediate family members who had cancer, as well as several other family
members and friends.
I found yet another creative outlet when re-connecting
with an old friend. Now I have always known this friend to be crafty so I knew
there would be something fun to do. This time it is stamping! It really is so
much more- greeting cards, scrapbooks, decorations and really just about
anything one could think of to express themselves.
I have always had an interest in making my own cards, so
this is like a dream come true. I was almost overwhelmed when I found out it
also includes learning water color techniques. That is something I have always
wanted to try but have never told anyone. So that is very special.
What makes this really fun is the monthly “Girls' Night
Out” at my friend's studio. Women gather to work on crafts, visit, talk, laugh,
and sometimes even pray. An occasional song or two can be heard at times. The
number and who attends can vary but it is always fun and uplifting.
Sure enough, I found a new love- that is a creative love.
Stamping and the wonderful group at the Girls' Night Out.
So my journey in this new beginning continues. And being
creative- including writing- is a definite part of the journey.
