The Cre8tive Escape

August 8, 2014

Almost everything I know I learned from other people. I think that’s the way God speaks the most, to me anyway. Even if you don’t really do the God thing, I’m sure you’ve noticed the way you learn from the wise people in your life. Sometimes it feels like we’re all walking around on some kind of circuit board and that current of electricity under us is keeping us going, all at once, connected and not and then connected again.

You know that thing that happens, when you have someone on your mind and heart and then you see like three members of their family, or they call you just that same day, or you find out there is something big going on and you’re all, AH HA! That’s why!

This circuit board is trippy, yo.

I believe in these connections. I believe in a God that loves us a lot and keeps the currents between us alive. Sometimes we cut them off, but they come back, one way or the other. Sometimes through a softening of the heart, or through a kick in the gut, or through creativity, or many many things. Maybe we all believe in grace in one way or another and part of that grace is that these currents can be recharged.

When we connect with each other, we change. We grow up. We learn from the wisdom of those wise teachers in our lives. Someone says just the right thing in just the right moment. We laugh, we cry, kumbaya and all that. I love it.

On September 1st, my friend Michelle and I are beginning a wild ride (one that has already begun). We’ve been working our bootays off to get ready. We’ve been prepared by all of the connections, big and small, and all of the life struggles and joys that have come before this. Our relationship is extraordinary and redemptive and messy and beautiful. It’s a really really (like REALLY) long story, and one day I’ll tell you, those of you who don’t know, but for now I’ll just say that Michelle is the best partner I could ask for and we’re going to do great things together.

Screenshot 2014-08-08 at 7.54.26 AM

We are opening Cre8tive Escape in September. We have a building for creatives, artists, and other freelancers. It holds 5 private spaces upstairs and all are spoken for already! Rented out, for the win! And the downstairs is a wide open light-filled space that we’re updating to be all kinds of awesome. (You know me and my love of all things mid-century, vintage, retro…I’ve been collecting garage sale finds and stalking sell and swap facebook pages and oh my word I’ve gotten the best stuff.)

The big space will be used for yoga classes, writing workshops, scrapbooking day retreats, meetings, seminars…etc. (Basically, if you live ’round these parts, you can rent the space as an individual, small group, or large group.) People are already booking scrapping days and looking forward to painting and writing and blogging classes. People are asking SUCH good questions and many simply LOVE knowing there’s a…well, a Cre8tive Escape.

Escape.

Seriously, who doesn’t want to do that?

Get out of the house. Come sit with us. It doesn’t matter if you aren’t creative (or if you THINK you aren’t). Or maybe you are, and you have lost the time to feed that part of yourself. We want to bring you back to her, or him. That passionate dreamer in you who gets buried in the daily grind. You can rent a few a hours or a day or whatever you need. You can even just sit in the comfy furniture and drink coffee and read. We’d love to share stories with you, when you want to take a break from your book.

It all comes back to your story. We want to live it with you, in community. We want to hear it. We want you to know what your story means for the rest of your story. Art and community, collaboration and shared wisdom. I’m just so in awe of being a part of what’s about to happen next.

(And also, I can’t stop hearing Vanilla Ice in my head when thinking of this building and this endeavor: STOP, COLLABORATE AND LISTEN.)

(You’re welcome.)

If you’re local, please stay tuned on Facebook for upcoming events (we’re working on a website too).

It would be really cool if you’d go like the page on Facebook because you know how that goes. You look important if you have a lot of likes. Or something. Thank you muchly in advance.

Oh and about the 8 in Creative…there are 8 spaces for rent. So there you have it. Not a secret code. (or maybe it iiiiis….)

{ 7 comments }

Kim August 8, 2014 at 8:04 am

I am SO excited for you. So proud of you. So amazed by you.
Kim recently posted..It’s Just Hair

Carrie Baughcum August 8, 2014 at 9:09 am

How amazing!!! I have to admit I only know you in this space. I follow the life you share about on facebook and read some of your blog posts. I do know the admiration I have for the amazing woman you are…so strong and resilient. And the talented writer who weaves words together so beautifully. So with that this stranger, me, is completely moved by your story. It makes me happy. Happy for you, for Michelle and for all those creative spirits that will fill that wonderful place. And me, this stranger would love to help you spread the word and help any way I can. I pretty much think I am crazy for writing this. I’m a special education teacher, I love 400 miles away but I a kindrid creative spirit and if there is anything I can do to help…I’m in!

joann August 8, 2014 at 10:46 am

That sounds absolutely amazing. Holy smokes!!! Love it!

Andrea August 8, 2014 at 11:05 am

That looks like the perfect place for you to be, inspiring others out in the community in the same way you inspire writers on your blog.
I see great things in your future. :)

Elaine A. August 8, 2014 at 5:13 pm

I SO wish this was in my area! What an amazing place this will be Heather. Congratulations t o you and Michelle!

Vikki August 10, 2014 at 10:52 am

Amazing!

Jeanne August 10, 2014 at 8:25 pm

Wishing you both much success in your new adventure. I know you have the drive and determination to make your dream a reality. Wished I lived closer.

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