I can’t say that anyone but me is keeping score. Have you noticed that I’ve been dropping off the radar a bit more than is my norm (if I have a norm)? My absence from my blog and social media seems to have gradually increased over the last several months. So, today, I’ve decided to confess.

It has been almost two years since my first blog and public commitment to leaving health care and living joyfully through my art. What a wonderful time it has been! I have been overwhelmed and overjoyed with the support that you’ve provided. I have made new friends, laughed, cried and grown in so many ways.

It was in the cold of February that I was asked to step back into health care. It had happened before, and I’d always declined. But this was somehow different. There was something close to my heart, people I cared about, and a worthy mission in the community; it was awkward, emotional, frightening, and riddled with things long buried. (Can I get an ugh?) It threatened to destroy what I had worked for the last year and a half. I wanted to say, “No,” but I didn’t.

Over the last several months I have tread cautiously on this tight rope that I walk. Ghosts have been faced, tears have been shed, boundaries set, and new strength and joys found.

I had not shared with many, my return to health care, due to my fear of becoming The Nurse Formerly Known as Bella. Today I feel safe saying that I have found my balance. I know that I can see my mission in the world of health care to fruition and still work joyfully in my world of art. Joie de Vie Art & Word continues! (Our website remains a bit behind but, if through social media, you see something you desire and it is not on our site, please speak up. I will make it happen.)

Thank you to all who joined me at my Open Studio last month. Old friends and new friends, you made it a sheer delight! You may hear from me less often, but I will be in my studio creating and, sharing my joy as I can: here, on Facebook and Instagram, and throughout the community every opportunity I get.

“Where’s the invitation?” you ask.

With the holidays just ahead, I’m thrilled to invite you to a few events. Please mark your calendar, grab your friends and join me at one or all.

Holiday Vintage and Artisan Faire

(a fund raiser for local high school scholarships)

Saturday November 16

3:00pm - 7:00 pm

Chico Elks Lodge- Manzanita Place

Tickets at Omega nu.net

Christmas Preview in Downtown Chico

I’ll be at A Beautiful Life Furnishings

250 E 1st Street

4:00pm - 8:00pm