Thanking my Tribe

In keeping with my NewYear's resolution of making this a "year of doing", I wanted to take a few minutes to say thank you to my ever supportive tribe, The Greater Birmingham Bead Society. When my friend and I started this a few years ago, never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined that I would get out of it way more than all the hours I spent putting into it. What started out as a way to just provide an outlet for education and networking among like minded folks, turned out to be in many ways, a life changing catalyst. I've met beautiful, talented people from all walks of life. I've witnessed beginning beaders and seasoned artists bring their own unique talents to the table and create something new and exciting. We've pushed each other to be better artists, take on new challenges and expand our visions. We've supported each other through illness, failure and loss, and celebrated our success and growth. Through it all, this wonderful tribe of mine has encouraged me to become a better artist and on many levels, a better person. They have patiently listened while I've given presentations. They have attended my workshops to give me some much needed teaching experience.  They've given me great encouragement and when needed, constructive criticism. And they have given me so much more. The two simple words "thank you" will never be enough, or convey what I really want to say, but I hope my  tribe, my GBBS family, knows this.

Until next time, I hope you find your tribe...