Hello from the Pacific Northwest!

Hi...my name is Lisa Rauch from Pursuing Art...Life and Dreams and I live in Milwaukie, Oregon. First, I'd like to say Thank you to Robin for spearheading such a wonderful project and continuing again this year! I was so relieved when I saw there would be another year. I feel fortunate and honored to be a part of this group of talented artists that include the most friendly and supportive people. My biggest regret last year was not signing up for the 2007 BJP. I considered to the last day (minute actually) and decided against it because I was still working on my first (large) piece. I felt that if I committed myself to one more thing, I would feel too overwhelmed. Well, I was so sorry for not doing it because I know I would have grown with each piece, each journaling, and even learning how to have a blog. However, I have been a devoted fan to the BJP and have admired everyone's work, the growth they have all shown, and the friendships that were made. I have learned so much this past year just in watching and listening and even 'on the seat of my pants' I learned how to start a blog and do most of the things that come with it!

I think I was born with a needle in my hand. I have always loved sewing, embroidery, needlepoint, knitting, beading, etc. In the fall of 2005, I really discovered bead embroidery. After doing lots of research, perusing the internet, buying some books and supplies, I began to teach myself in the winter of 2006. I am loving it and still learning! I've decided on a theme this year which will be 'fragments of my life' although I am still deciding on the actual size to see what will work best. My pages won't be totally encrusted because I don't trust myself to complete that every thirty days. I've learned from watching and know that I don't want to be overwhelmed in completing each month.

To those that are returning, I'm glad you chose to be here again and without many of you knowing...you have been an inspiration to me! To those of us that are new, I know it will be a great year and a wonderful journey!

~Lisa ;-)