I never thought I'd by keying in that three-number combination. To finish this monolithic accomplishment is so very fulfilling for me. When I finished Bead Bugs and turned in the last installment, I was both relieved and sad. The same is true for my spider project, which has lasted much longer that I originally intended, due to some unforeseen life challenges.

Not too terribly far into my spider project, I had decided that my last spider would be a dead spider. I thought, what a great way to end my beaded spider project...with a real sense of finality. To bring it to a "dead" stop. But 2012 was a real year of trial and discovery for me both personally and spiritually, and just a couple of months ago, my idea for the dead spider transformed. Experience has shown me that even when things seem to be at their end--finished, dead, kaput--new life comes out of that darkness. There is always a way to move forward and to keep doors and windows open for potential and power and love! I don't know if I can say goodbye to this project. It has been therapeutic for me in some difficult moments. It has brought me joy and wonder. It has given me faith about myself and my abilities. It has brought me closer to some amazing people and the gifts that we can all share with one another. It has changed how I see my world.

In some ways, I feel resurrected. Something dead in me has been brought back to life. I am discovering how to be a different, better person. I can give this project a stamp of approval and move on to the next big, wonderful moment...and I'm so excited to share that with all of you who have followed me and encouraged me these many months.

"The fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." Galatians 5:22

Thank you.