Who got me started

by Diane
(South Dakota)

Way back in 1982, I found myself in the hospital. My college roommate, and good friend, brought me a Garfield coloring book and a 48 pack of Crayolas. I found that good old coloring (which had very much enjoyed as kid) could take my mind off my pain and troubles (like how was I going to make up the classes I was missing?).

Over the years, various chronic pain issues have plagued my life (sounds real sunny, huh?). BUT, I have found that coloring can still have that same therapeutic value - I recommend it for relieving any kind of stress. I initially could only find coloring books. HOwever, through the years I've found books (and now web pages) that have more intricate patterns and I have played with colored pencils, felt-tip pens, gel pens, glitter pens, etc. THe complexity of design, the use of different media (or is it medium?), putting colors together...it all absorbs my mind and I don' feel the pain as much. And, if I have an unfortunate night where the pain keeps from sleep, coloring definitely beats late-night TV.
Hope someone will enjoy and/or relate to my story. Plus, I reiterate my recommendation that this not-only-for-kids past time can relieve all kinds of stress.
Be good to yourselves.
Dmlt