I've realized recently that all of my actions lately revolve around the need for peace in my life. You may have seen me use the "D-Word" (aka Depression) here before, and when Lisa Congdon talks about anxiety, I cannot help but feel a certain kinship. The last couple years, my life has resembled various levels of chaos. Through

 Belt buckles from Andy's collection. Some made by the artist, others collected.  Recently, I had the honor of assisting Andy Cooperman in his The Art of the Belt Buckle workshop at the Oregon College of Art and Craft. I have been watching Andy's work for years, so when I was asked if I would like to assist him,

Last weekend, DW and I tried to go on an adventure. We got pretty far, but nowhere near our destination. On Sunday night, I said wistfully, "I wish you could take tomorrow off and we could try again." He did. He's an amazing husband. The next morning, we hopped into the car and drove East, instead of West.

Today was a strange day. It was one of those days that requires endless patience, courage, and positivity. It started with nightmares that left me sobbing. Thank goodness I have a loving husband who can comfort me in the middle of the night. (I've been having many nightmares lately. Almost every night.) I woke fresh and clear-headed, and