Welcome to my corner of the internet! I'm Lylias Black, but you may have known me in a past life as Lisa Marie Shaw. Names hold a lot of power, and after grappling with my identity for some time, I decided to take control and embrace a moniker that truly resonates with me.

I'm a perpetual hobbyist with an ever-growing list of interests. From latch hooking to diamond painting, from jewelry making to crochet, I've dipped my toes into a multitude of creative pursuits. Yet, my journey through these hobbies has been colored by a constant struggle with focus and a nagging sense of being a perpetual beginner. Brain fog, a constant companion due to my health conditions, often obscures my path, making even the simplest tasks feel like climbing a mountain.

Among my collection of hobbies lie musical instruments, each with its own story and significance. My violin, a beautiful blue instrument, remains more of a decorative piece than a musical endeavor. My ukuleles, both pink and blue, represent a journey of discovery and determination. Yet, it's my kalimbas that truly resonate with me, their ethereal tones serving as a balm for my soul amidst life's cacophony. And most recently, I've embarked on a musical journey with a keyboard, chronicling my adventures on my blog for those curious enough to follow along.

But beyond my hobbies and interests lies a more complex narrative woven with threads of illness and health conditions. Lupus, possibly SLE, Meniere's disease, fibromyalgia, arthritis, and Raynaud's syndrome are the silent companions that walk beside me daily, shaping my experiences and coloring my world in hues of challenge and resilience.

In this digital space, I share not only my creative exploits but also my triumphs and struggles with health, alongside my husband Rex and our feline companion Drac. Together, we navigate the highs and lows of life, finding solace and strength in each other's company.

Join me on this journey of self-discovery, creativity, and resilience as I navigate the labyrinth of life, one kalimba melody at a time.