just do it -- moving from dreaming to doing (and discovering new passions)

What have you been dreaming about doing or trying or learning? I know there's something. Maybe there are lots of somethings. Little whispers from your spirit. Are you listening to them, or pushing them aside? There are always reasons not to start. Sometimes those reasons are valid -- you don't have the right tools or enough space or knowledge. Often those reasons are really excuses, fear, or worse, laziness.

I've been there. Again and again. It's hard to overcome inertia. It's hard to break free from fear and try something new. But it's also so very worth it each time you do.

When I overcame my inertia to experiment with lino cutting for last week's 2x2 Sketchbook, I had so much fun.

And I wanted to do it again.

And again. And again.

I think I'm hooked.

With each one I get more and more comfortable. I still haven't cut myself. Or "messed up." Each block brings me joy. I've learned that it's best to work slowly and that the tool carves much more easily if I'm working lightly (it also keeps my hand from cramping up like it did the first time). If you're interested in learning linocutting, don't worry about needing a lot of instruction before you start. I read the booklet in my kit (extremely basic) and the tips on this website. Creativebug's fabric design series also includes a segment about block printing fabric by hand (enthusiastically taught by Lizzie House) that helped me to have the confidence to get started. The main way to learn is to dive in and get comfortable with the tools. And remember to always carve away from your fingers and yourself.

I know my blocks aren't perfect and that I still have a lot to learn, but inking up a newly finished block and making a test print in my sketchbook fills me with glee each time.

It leaves me asking the question, why didn't I try this sooner? And, what was I so afraid of?

So I ask you, again, what is it that you've been wanting to try? Why aren't you trying it? Stop letting inertia and excuses hold you back. Maybe you'll try it and you won't like it. Or, maybe you'll try it and discover a new passion. Isn't it worth the risk?

Have a wonderful, creative, joy-filled weekend and if you try something new, I'd love to hear about it!