Becoming a quilter

As a society we have a tendency to assign labels and put people into boxes. In general, I think we truly believe it helps us make sense of the world and our interactions within it. Upon first meeting someone, a typical question one might ask is  "what do you do for a living?" For many years my answer was clear, "I am a student" or "I work at Eddie Bauer" or "I am an Interior Designer" These days my answer is far less succinct. Sometimes I might say "I am a photographer" other times I might say, a blogger, or an Interior Designer. Nowadays, it seems to depend on my mood, my audience and what I perceive their interest to be in any answer outside of the box. These days I wear many hats and I am grateful for the diversity and richness it brings to my life. 

As I reflect upon titles I ponder those activities which bring me joy and whether by doing them I am required to take them on as another title. I like to quilt, but would I consider myself a quilter? I enjoy writing, but would I consider myself a writer? I like to throw parties, but would I consider myself a party planner? Where does the line exist between the doing and then becoming?

Currently, I am in the process of finishing my fourth quilt. Although I would not consider myself a quilter just yet, I do find the process to be enjoyable, rewarding and a worthy use of my time. Maybe one day I will embrace the title of quilter, but until then I will continue making items with my hands and enjoy having a creative project to work on late at night. 

Here are a few blog posts about my thoughts on quilting: 

How working on quilts has been healing to me. 

My labor of love.

Moving onward and finding my own path to grieving.

My work in progress.

My blue period.