My name is Mary and I'm so glad you're here! Creative by Trade is a record of my desire to live a creative life on purpose. A while ago, I noticed that I desperately craved a deeply meaningful and wildly creative life. Exploring this feeling further, I realized this was not new to me. I'd always wanted to live this way but I had never actually done anything about it. I dreamed a lot, but took very little action. I was simply going through the motions every. single. day.

Without actively engaging in creative pursuits, my life was incredibly boring at worst, and comfortably mundane at best. I've decided this is no longer going to cut it for me.

The idea of writing a personal blog that captures my creative journey has been in the back of my mind for a while now. Just sitting there for, well honestly, years. See what I mean about dreaming but not doing? Through deep reflection and a somewhat uncomfortable exploration of my current habits and routines, Creative by Trade was born.

If you find yourself on a similar path, how lovely it is that we found one another. As I figure out what I really want this blog to be, I'll be sharing stories and ideas on a wide variety of topics. My goal is to infuse my life with joy and whimsy through creativity, so the number of possible blog topics is truly endless.

I also thought it might be helpful to share my personal definition of creativity. I define creativity as taking action on your curiosity. It's all the little things you've always wondered about but convince yourself not to do because it's not the right time, or it's too expensive, or you're afraid of being judged. The list goes on. And sure, sometimes life can get in the way for good reason, but I assure you, there is not a good reason MOST of the time. What is something you've always wanted to do but never allowed yourself to try? It could be anything from going horseback riding for the first time to traveling to a remote village in Switzerland just because you thought it looked magical in a photo you saw once ten years ago. These are whims I hope to explore day after day, both big and small.

If you've made it this far, I want to thank you for being here. I cannot wait to share in this journey with you.