Where Do I Begin?

“Every child is an artist, the problem is staying an artist when you grow up.” — Pablo Picasso

What an interesting day.

At the end of a work trip, a brief window of time allowed for a quick run through at the Hallmark Visitor’s Center before catching the flight home. This was a stop that touched my heart on so many levels.

Growing up, it was my life plan to be an artist for Hallmark. It was my dream job. Obviously that is not the course my life took. I’m on the other side of the state and my career is not creative. Walking through the Visitor’s Center brought the creative void in my life into sharp focus. I felt intensely inspired, overwhelmed with longing, and a tiny bit regretful. I also happen to be reading a book that is compounding my feeling of creative restlessness. But that’s a post for another time.

But, on the other hand, there were so many pieces of history – many of which we have owned – in the display cases. I recognized countless cards, ornaments, books, and toys. It felt like something between time travel and sifting through my parents’ basement.

This Peanuts display was so awesome.

Then there was this gorgeous room of themed trees.

And I met a celebrity.

Notice my sweatshirt? This article of clothing proved to be an icebreaker, a conversation starter, and a social experiment unlike anything I anticipated. In a nutshell, I cannot remember a time that so many people were so friendly to me. So many smiles, chuckles, and “I like your sweatshirt.” It was fascinating. I can only speculate, but I’m wondering if the shirt communicated on some level that I’m a little silly and non-threatening. Whatever the reason, the shirt was clearly disarming. Made me want to wear it every day. I liked feeling connected to people in such a fun and friendly way.