What’s your dream? Your passion? My sister and I were having a conversation about this last night, and it got me thinking about the role dreams play in our lives. Some people talk about the importance of goals in life, which by many accounts are very similar to dreams. What is the difference? Goals might be attached to a dream, but they are not necessarily so. Goals might be stepping stones toward realizing our dream, but they could also be relatively lifeless, leading us in a direction that does not ultimately bring fulfillment or happiness. I think dreams come from a deeper place; they are more organic in nature. I wholeheartedly feel that if you follow your dreams, life has more meaning—it is more fulfilling, rewarding, and fun.
I have lived many of my dreams over the years: I have a wonderful, loving husband and family, comfortable home and rewarding career. One passion that has particularly driven me throughout my life, is the desire to create. I have used that creative itch in a variety of ways, designing and sewing clothing, decorating my home, working on our landscaping, cooking and baking—even designing lessons and classes. Yet that childhood dream of being an artist--a painter more precisely-- always hung on, looming on the horizon.
 |
| My daughter Kate's wedding gown |
Several years ago, while walking past a gallery in Lake Geneva, I told my daughter about my childhood dream of being an artist and of my desire to paint someday. That Christmas, my children gave me paints, brushes, canvas and a book on oil painting. Over the past several years, I’ve been slowly pursuing that dream, and loving every minute of it. I do not think my amazing children realize what a wonderful gift they gave me that year. Thanks again kiddos!
 |
| My first oil-Jen's wedding bouquet |
Life is busy. It is full of demands and challenges. It is also short. Too often, we let our dreams hang out on the horizon for someday, robbing ourselves of the opportunity to realize our fullest potential. And why? It’s not the right time? It’s too much work? Time to get our priorities straight. Our dreams are the most deserving recipient of our energy and time. Help someone realize their dream, and help yourself realize your own. Embrace all the good stuff in life. Find your dream, make a plan, and just do it!
The following are a few acrylics that I painted this year.
 |
| Biking in Vilas County |
 |
| New Zealand Romance |
 |
| Nature |
