OT - Avatar question

I know this is off topic, but I don't know where else to ask. So many ppl here have really cool avatars. How do I go about creating one for myself? I googled the net last night, but didn't find anything that looks like what ppl here have (no cool sparkly colors or great artwork).

BTW, Petunia, I was amazed at your great hugs thread. All I want is to create one little avatar and you can create beautiful individualized hugs in the blink of an eye.

Elizabeth

Mental Pollution made out signature. Maybe she can help

Hi One,

I imagine if you ask Mental Pollution, she can make a nice one for you. Also, someone else in this forum, I believe, Songbird (?) makes nice ones.

Hugs,

Jan

Thanks all the girls and jan. I'm feeling a little too shy to ask someone I've never met to do something like that, so I'm muddling through on my own. And ending up having fun being creative for a change.

Elizabeth

I can do it. What would you like?

love you new signature, did you make it yourself?

I'm so sorry, it was Rainbowzz! Silly me!!

I love you siggy and avatar though. It's beautful!!!!!

Hugs,

Jan

Hi Rainbowzz,

Just back from vacation--thank you for offering! I kind of like the one I put together, but feel it isn't very polished or something. Do you have any suggestions?

Hi to allthegirls and Jan,

Thanks! I did make it myself. The symbol is the Celtic Tree of Life--I've really been drawn to it for years now. It feels very grounding to me. Here is one of the meanings of the tree:
The ancient Celts envisioned the cosmos in the form of a great tree. The roots were deep in the earth and branches stretched to the heavens. The Celtic Tree of Life is the symbol of balance between these worlds; the unification of above and below; a symbol of Balance and Harmony. To the ancient Celts, the tree was a source of wisdom and hope, an enduring link between the upper and lower worlds, a reminder of the eternal cycle of the seasons.

((((((((( One )))))))))))

Thank you for that wonderful and beautiful explaination. I love trees of any kind and it struck a true chord in my heart.

Hugs,

Jan