Hope and the Ultimate Compliment

Originally uploaded by RGP

When I started this creative journey of mine, I have to tell you, I honestly had no idea how much joy, happiness and fulfillment it would bring me. I mean, I always knew it would be a positive adventure, but nothing as amazing as it's been in such a short time.

First, as I've mentioned briefly before, I have met some absolutely amazing, creative and wonderful people. This is bigger for me than it sounds. I tend to be only surrounded by the people I work with because of the hours we spend together, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but a girl's gotta expand her horizons sometime. For some reason, until now, I've always been somewhat shy online, which is really odd, especially considering I was online long before most people even knew it existed. I just can't bring myself to put on a mask when I'm logged on. I'm always me, that's just how it is. But in the last few months I've opened up more and it's really paid off. The people I have "met" have been inspirational, funny, comforting and kind. Since I've been somewhat away the last few weeks, I have missed them dearly.

Second, I have truly seen myself grow as an artist. And I'm not just talking about skill here, I'm talking about my imagination expanding and appreciating new things. I see things a little more clearly and my thoughts tend to be a tad less scattered. I've actually stopped worrying so much which, you gotta believe me, is a HUGE feat.

And now, the biggest compliment and accomplishment I've ever had, the picture in this post. You may remember this drawing from my doodle a day for a year project. A bunch of the ladies I "hang" with online really loved it which was enough to make me happy, but then one of the gals (zoogal to be specific) actually had it tattooed on her back (as you can see). This is gigantic for me. More than even she may realize. I've had a lot of friends in the tattoo industry and have always admired and envied the ability to give someone a piece of art forever and ever.

Honestly, it touches me so much I could cry a little. But I'm not going to because my head is so stuffed, I'll regret it later. Oh, btw, that's why I've been so quiet lately....warding off a terrible head cold as well as battling the ridiculous work hours.

Anyhow, to Zoogal and all of my friends online, you mean more to me than you know and I am grateful to have met you and look forward to sharing many more days with you! Cheers!