The Quill and Me

Stepping Stones of Faith and Art

Preface

This is the first time I’ve spoken here about my Etsy shop, Creations by Quil. It began as a place to gather the pieces of my creative journey — coloring book attempts, charts, and art that grew out of seasons of trial and discovery. My shop is not the center of my ministry, but it has been part of the road that led me here. I mention it now only as part of my testimony, because the art I share there has carried stories of faith, remembrance, and resilience.

My Journey

This past year has been a tapestry woven with threads of creativity, challenge, and grace. My Etsy shop has been a small stepping stone — a place where I continue to share art and practical helps like chore charts and devotional printables. It is not my primary concern right now, but it remains part of my journey, and I am grateful for the lessons it has taught me about patience, stewardship, and the quiet courage of beginning again.

Through Etsy, I’ve shared pieces that carry more than color and scripture; they carry stories. The Teapot and Bible for Shirley was created in honor of my sister, who passed away in the fall of 2024 after a journey with dementia and colon cancer. It reflects friendship, faith, and remembrance. The Whimsical Black Cat, created in memory of my beloved Sam cat, carried joy and playfulness. And the Ten Commandments with blue leaves on parchment became a symbol of devotion and reverence. Each design is more than art — it is a testimony of resilience, love, and faith. (The designs shown here are just samples of the pieces mentioned, which are actually sized at 16x20inches and may not show as clearly here.)  

This year was not without its trials. There were invisible settings, confusing tools, and days when I wondered if I could keep going. Yet each obstacle became a stepping stone — reminding me that resilience is not about perfection, but about showing up with honesty and faith. My daughter’s companionship in weather‑watching and shared rituals grounded me, turning ordinary days into sacred rhythms.

Now, as I continue shaping my devotional blog, I see how Etsy is not just a shop. It is a proving ground, a gentle invitation to trust the process, and a way to share pieces of my journey. The art I place there, and the lessons I carry through it, have become part of the foundation for this blog which is a ministry that is both creative and prayerful.

This journey is still unfolding, but I step forward with gratitude, knowing that every chart, every design, and every story has been preparing me for the deeper work of devotion.

With Gratitude for the Journey,

Quil