About Loretta Milan
Founder and Commissioning Editor of Original Life. We're on a mission to get everyone embracing their original selves. Everyone has creative magic in them. When I'm not writing, you'll find me enjoying books, tea, travel and art.
Create magic
Hands can do so many things. Write, sew, build, bake, plant, fix…. The list is incredible.
Looking through my photos at the weekend, I came across an image taken this time last year of me sitting in a craft café, holding up a little clay house I’d just painted.
The creation was far from a masterpiece but, having not played with clay since my school years, I’d at least had fun with friends. I was so excited to pick up my glazed house a few days later and I often pop a candle inside and watch the windows glow.
Beside the house, on my desk, are a selection of my children’s creations. An origami crab with beady eyes. A papier-mâché bird with vibrant feathers. People made out of toilet rolls and a variety of woodwork projects. Each is a treasure.
No matter how old we are, when we create something with our hands, it becomes unique. Even if we follow the same process and techniques, a copy will never be exact. It’s a wonderful reason to be present when you create, immersing yourself in the moment whether you’re alone or creating things with your family, friends or colleagues.
Creation calms our minds and helps us see new possibilities. What you make doesn’t have to be perfect. Focus on letting it bring joy instead.
Looking for ideas?
Have a go at one of these fun, festive creations:
- Build a gingerbread house using this simple recipe.
- Make a wreath or winter bouquet out of holly, leaves, pinecones or whatever you can find. Try one of these wreath ideas.
- Create paper garlands of trees, snowmen or reindeer with these easy instructions.
- Make origami Christmas trees. Here’s how.
- Hand paint cards and add messages using calligraphy. This modern calligraphy tutorial will inspire you to give it a try.
- Make marbled tree ornaments following these steps. They look beautiful.
- Or, why not make your own clay creation? See if a local pottery studio or craft café offers workshops or take-home kits. Alternatively, you’ll find some creative sets here.
Use your hands. They’re made for making magic.
About Loretta Milan
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Live originally
When we embrace our original selves and express who we truly are, magic happens. Inside each and every one of us is treasure that can make our dreams come true.
Writing opportunities – February 2021
Our list of February's best writing contests, competitions and opportunities with details of prizes, requirements and deadlines.
Writing prompt: Ascend
You're out of breath from running but you can't stop now. Tell the story of what happens as, heart pounding, you begin to climb the stairs.
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