I am writing this in my bedroom where I am keeping the dog quiet while Angie shoots a short film in our living room. Since I can’t at this moment be in the action—later I’ll play a small role—I am finding myself inspired to write my newsletter/ blog post!

Yesterday, our friend who is playing Angie’s alter ego in the film told me he was impressed that I was so supportive of her doing this and that we had the energy to make it happen. Aside from what a tremendous good sport he’s being about his role in the film, this gave me pause.

Angie and I are creative people. We have to find outlets for this stuff or it congeals and makes a big mess. It’s also maybe the best thing about us. We’re never going to be the most organized people, the most consistent parents, the cleanest of housekeepers. But from time to time our house will fill up with people and stories will flow.

Curled up with the sleeping dog now, hearing the running of feet, the cry of “action,” and the rise of laughter buoys my spirit. “We’re making a movie, people,” Angie says to a round of applause. On the sidelines, I’m scribbling away. Creativity begets creativity. It’s a good life.

How do other people’s creative efforts support your own? Kids’ art or mud-play. Friend’s enthusiasm for quilting. An acquaintance’s passion about winemaking. What might you import into your own creativity from the wonderful people around you? What inspires you or reminds you who you are?