I grew up as an only child living on a farm. I didn’t have a lot of playmates when I was growing up, and I occupied myself playing with various natural items I would make. Friday nights were my favorites though because my mom would take me to my grandma’s house who lived with one of my aunts and we would all sit around and make things. Sometimes my other aunts would come, or my grandma’s sisters too. My mom painted, grandma crocheted, and my aunts did ceramics. We would usually order pizza and just sit around and talk and “make” stuff. This had a huge impact on my life. I’m not a trained artist, I was a nurse by profession, but I have always done arts and crafts. My mom and dad and aunt still share their creativity with others and they go to the nursing home in their hometown once a month and host a craft day. The residents absolutely love them. They bring their dog Millie and she’s visits each person, mainly looking for hidden treats! I’m so proud of my family and their dedication to volunteer work. But I’m also so thankful for all those Friday Craft Nights, because I realized how important art and creativity is for our mental health. It brings us together, creates community, and fosters health.
