Some might claim life to be the ultimate journey. Welcome back, tree-friends, to this chapter of my expedition toward a place to call my own. If you’ve kept up with my travels in the past, you might remember that I just recently moved away from where I spent the last twenty years of my life, Las Vegas, to my new home—Fordland, Missouri.
My journey began in the early morning of August 5th. As I started my long drive, my stops included cities like Gallup, Albuquerque, Amarillo, Oklahoma City, and Tulsa. But the point of this journey wasn’t to see more of the same. I wanted brand new views and sources of inspiration, so I powered through the desert landscape of Arizona and into the lush states of New Mexico, Texas, and Oklahoma. I stayed the night in Albuquerque and Oklahoma City to catch up on some rest and savor my time in both cities.
I arrived in Fordland on Saturday, the 7th, at about 6 pm. Have you ever sat down for a long road trip, just the passing sights in mind and the wheel warm beneath your hands? It’s a magical sensation, a moment suspended in time where anything can happen. My intention for this trip was to just enjoy the sights and experience whatever I could. Part of me just wanted to get to Missouri, and the rest of me wanted to take as long as I could, relishing in the freedom of the road.
I was like a child on their first trip, I had the windows down and enjoyed the wind with no expectations for the world, just the simple pleasure of traveling. My favorite places were Santa Rosa, New Mexico, and Oklahoma City. I stopped at an original diner called the Silver Moon at the edge of Santa Rosa, located on Route 66 and serving delicious meals since 1959. I also visited the Memorial site in Oklahoma City and had a fantastic brunch downtown at Kitchen 324.
I have been in Missouri for almost 4 weeks now—though I’ve been settling into my Missouri life, I’m still learning the ins and outs of this new home, using my GPS to get to Springfield and learn the roads. Fordland is about 20 minutes from Springfield by hi-way, but I love the contrast of living in a rural area of about 800 people and being so close to a very progressive and vibrant city. The drive is always worth it! Getting settled into the arts community takes a bit of time but I have found a perfect starting point: The Springfield Arts Council, the hub for all things in the arts, including visual, dance, theater, symphony, and much more.
In a serendipitous moment, I’ve found the perfect spot inside of Relic’s Antiques and Collectibles for my physical location for The Healing Tree Studio. 2015 W. Battlefield Rd, Springfield, MO Booth #R-10. The location is warm and friendly with a diverse array of customers. Now I have the joy of directing anyone to this location, and I can focus on other venues for my artwork.
Moving is difficult. It’s a transition that shifts all aspects of life, and requires huge mental adjustment. But I have no regrets about my move—I love it here. The arts seem to be a large part of this city, and they certainly aren’t going anywhere. It’s perfect for me and I believe I can call this home. I hope you’ll settle with me in this beautiful new space, where creativity and growth can thrive. Until next time!
The Healing Tree Studio 