Where have you gone, childhood?

Ever since I grew out of the child stage where I was creative and less self critical, I have not considered myself an artistic or creative person. I'm pretty much a follower, not always passive but feel reliant on others for approval and validation. So I haven't really written very much since my last college writing class about 3 years ago. This is my first real attempt since then to express myself and perhaps gain self confidence as I make an effort to get out of my shell and try to recapture (at least a little bit of) the creativeness of my childhood self. I have a lot to share that I hope will help and encourage those of you who read my blog. So bear with me as I stumble along this little journey.