Have you ever felt drawn to your own particular word and kept it close to your heart? Have you waved a particular word high as your banner before marching into battle?
2017 was my first introduction to this concept by brilliant artist Stacey Heiland, of “Joys of Life Scrapbooking.” The idea of “One Little Word,” began in 2006 by Ali Edwards Designs. The first year I participated I asked myself, prayed on and journaled your way to an answer. I felt drawn to the word “CERTAIN.”
What makes Stacey’s version on “One Little Word” different and special is it’s emphasis on community. Everyone on this planet has their own journey and this has never been more apparent to me than interacting within Stacey’s homegrown community. Every month we would journal through the prompts and join the in-person community to work on my “book.” The barebones of our books are created together in the first month of the adventure. Vision boards, as well as side projects help to fill the book and keep our eye on our chosen word.
My word was a daily reminder and nudge into making decisions that aligned with how I wish to live my life. My word would pop up in my Bible, empower me, convict me, and challenge me. Targeting on and growing through my word felt more effective than struggling through a vague resolution. Other times my word left me scratching my head.
Everyone on this planet has their own journey and this has never been more apparent than coming together in a small group to participate in this project. As time goes on we share our projects, our slip ups, our snark and our victories. We shower each other in prayer, small physical gestures and keep our eyes open for each other’s words in our day-to-day life.
Way back in February of 2022 I started a new word journey with Stacey and my sisters! I felt inspired to created hand-lettered watercolors of the words of those on the journey with me. Watercolors (and posting my art in general) is still new to me. I got out of my comfort zone and gave it a go.
Two of my favorite words from the original list were “BALANCE,” and “COURAGE.” To help others embody the definition of those words, I decided to scan-in and render the watercolors into physical pieces of art available in my shop as apparel or stickers.
I know everyone has their own special gifts. Humility aside, I have a knack for visual arts and design. I intend to continue to use this gift to encourage and inspire others. What are your gifts? What is your word? Feel free to share in the comment box below!
Penny Doodles 