Creativity and crafting mean so much to me. They've always been part of my life, providing an outlet for the weird and fun thoughts within my head, and allowing me to express my unique identity.

Recently, they've become a way to cope with my autoimmune issues.

I'm one of the (too many) people suffering as their own body attacks them. Late-onset type 1 diabetes is the key symptom, but I'm working to get everything else diagnosed. The photosensitivity and exhaustion and flares cannot get under control soon enough.

While waiting for outside fixes, I work on internal changes. Even if I can't stay in the sun long, I can design new cross stitch patterns. When I'm too tired to keep up with friends, I can still stitch and bring something to life.

But it's not just about creating beautiful things. It's about embracing my quirky humor and my love of Final Fantasy XIV. It's about using memes and swearing to express ideas that can't always be said nicely. My therapy and truth often embrace F-bombs and dark humor.

Knowing I'm not the only one like this, I'm trying to share my odd vision with others. Patterns and pictures that are a little (a lot?) bit off. A way to combine creation AND irreverence. Offering the soothing rhythm of floss on aida with uncouth phrases.

So, thank you for supporting an unwell woman as she seeks solace in memes and fandom. May a little of my strange joy find its way into your home.