I like to try to analyze exactly what it is I like about an item or an activity or a process. In quilting, I like pinning, hand and machine stitching, longarm work, and machine embroidery. Why? Maybe I like pinning because it is what we used to call a “mindless-task committee assignment.” It leaves my mind free for other thoughts, while occupying my restless hands. While stitching by hand or machine, or on the long arm, the creative side of my brain goes into hyperdrive. I will be thinking about the creativity in front of me, as well as working out the plot to my next novel or composing the opening paragraph to an op-ed piece or a press release. When I get organized, I actually write while quilting, using voice-recognition software. When it comes to machine embroidery, honestly, I enjoy the fact that I can do something else while the machine works! And in all cases, I enjoy being able to see what I have accomplished at the end of the work period.  Maybe that’s even the best part!

I live in Waxahachie, Texas, a growing city with a hometown attitude – and the perfect place to make a life with my husband of 28 years, our 18-year-old son, three dogs, and two cats. It’s also the perfect venue for my new business – Seldom Seen Quilting Studio-for-Rent.

My studio is enchanting, if I do say so myself – located in the mezzanine at the back of a wonderful antiques mall, in a quaint, historic downtown setting.  It’s the kind of space the feeds creativity – and it’s fully outfitted with all of the things necessary to create beautiful quilts. I am willing to share it (for a fee, of course) and I love to show it off to other quilters.

It’s also a great place to write, which is my other creative passion. If you haven’t already read my debut novel, Betsey Anne, you can buy a copy here (http://www.etsy.com/shop/SeldomSeenQuilting). I’m working on my next book and putting a few groceries on the table by stringing for a couple of local newspapers and picking up the odd press release or website-content job on the side.

I’m living my dream life. For real.