Hurry up and wait!

Hurry up and wait is the key word for so many things in life. I am going through this phenomenon as this process proceeds.

The illustrations that go along with a children's book has been the biggest creative challenge. And the waiting to find out if they are all going to "make the cut" is the current challenge. It is not just the creative challenge, although, this is not my area of creativity. TRUST ME IN THIS! But, we learn our best lessons through struggles. What have I learned? I have learned, very clearly, what not to do. I am still learning WHAT to do. I suspect that is the story of our lives. We are all learning from day to day. And I suspect, I am not through making mistakes.



One thing I have learned, aside from the publishing events, is that we need to keep mentally challenged. I know, some of you will quickly point out that I am mentally challenged ! Some friends use various activities to keep the little neurons popping. Everything from travel, to gardening, to dexterity puzzles. Another area to keep yourself mentally stimulated is to learn computer skills. I know, many people claim that it is not for them. Can't do this"..."does not make sense", "I don't want to". If we plan to stay current in our daily living, we need to throw out the "I cant's," and move on to the "let's try" area of our lives. It is like the age of motor vehicles and riding a horse. If the roads are full of cars, you best not ride your horse on the freeways. We need to keep up with the times, move forward and stay current. It might take a little extra effort on your part, but, isn't that what we are talking about here? Mentally challenging yourself to keep up with the program, what ever that program might turn out to be.



With all of that being said, I learned different programs on my computer on how to create the illustrations. It was frustrating, tiring, and exciting. Learning how to make certain changes, but, now... how do I save the changes. It is hard to find out that the illustration, your latest "baby", is not the correct DPI, or the right kind of color to pass muster... I am chuckling now, but, it is a weak chuckle. I just have to thank God for giving me the directions and encouragement to continue this learning journey. It would have been very easy to give up.



I want to thank all of you for being so supportive. It has been so wonderful to hear encouraging words. Everyone needs that, no matter if it is a small project or a large project. Lift others up, be supportive of your friends, and keep moving and trust God to lead you . You can not go wrong if you do this.



Until the next time....