Word for 2014

This time of year there’s always talk on the Quiltart list about choosing a word for the year. I think it is supposed to be a guiding force, a motivating factor, or a key word representing the path you’d like your artistic life to take. I like to participate too but, honestly, in a few weeks or so I tend to forget the word I choose. I have to go back to my blog to refresh my memory.

My word for 2011 was “brave.”

In 2012, I decided to participate in some online challenges instead of picking a word. After a few months, I had to drop out of those challenges when I received several real-life challenges instead.

Last year, I wanted to become more productive, so I chose “focus” and “self-discipline.” In retrospect, I had moments of focus and self-discipline, but probably many more moments not directed by those two ideals.

Over the last several months, it has occurred to me several times that being in my studio has become stressful. I don’t like that. I want it to be a place of refuge. In my mind, I want to be there, but when I get back there I practice avoidance. That shouldn’t be. I want to re-train myself so quilting becomes a joyful and fun adventure. So, that’s my goal for this year. My word for 2014 is

(Doesn’t that “e” look like a smiling face?)