"Creativity Takes Courage:" Brand New!

Hi All, I am really excited to blog for Channahon-Minooka Patch.  I thought about what I should write first, how I should introduce myself, and so on...  Then, I came to the conclusion that if I want to really be a value added and a distinct voice to the blogger community I should start off with the most obvious.  What is the most obvious?  At the moment, it is comparing my brand new community with that which I come from and commute back to everyday. So allow me to  start off by introducing myself in the manner that will reflect most of my posts, which is with a quote, "Creativity Takes Courage!"- Henri Matisse.  I use this quote because it pretty much sums up my current life chapter.  My creativity is pushing me to new courageous peaks in life and I am loving it!

Making the move from Chicago to Channahon has afforded me with the chance to discover new inspirations, create new opportunities and explore an area different from what I am accustomed to.  Yep, I am a city girl at the core, lights, camera, action, noise, 24-hour restaurants, buses, trains and block parties every summer.  I still work there and my extended family lives there.  I never thought that would change until I finally decided to make the move to Channahon in winter of 2010.  My mother moved a couple of years ago and it took me some time to officially join her. 

It was quite the culture shock.  I remember feeling really scared because it was so quiet, I would hear an occasional night creature and spot a deer or two on Route 6.  So here I was, brand new to town, nothing to do, nowhere to go and full of energy.  I initially questioned my move, was this a good fit for me?  I also had recently started Forté Events Co. so I was eager to grow my business and network.  At first glance, there were no places that I could immediately go to socialize and get to know the community.  I no longer could hop on a bus or train and get to my destination.  I had to drive! 

One Saturday, after spending numerous weekends traveling back to Chicago craving the city life or staying at home losing my mind in boredom, I decided to jump in my car and get lost.  That's right, I purposely got lost in Channahon, Minooka and Morris.  I figured the best way to get to know the area was to drive around and introduce myself personally to all the local shop owners and patrons.  What I found were gems throughout each village.  I got excited because I finally began to see the towns and all that they had to offer.  I sought to feel the rhythm of the area, the tempo of the residents and the offerings of each business.  In my blogs to come, I will share quotes, insights on my new adventures, more about myself and engaging discussion questions.  I hope you join me for the adventure!

Paz (peace in Spanish),

Monique Phillips, Event Planner- Forté Events Co.