RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- A local woman is getting her lifelong creative spark back after entering the Federal Duck Stamp Contest. Libby Meggs has loved art her whole life. She wrote and illustrated her own children's book and designed the heart on the Virginia is for Lovers logo. After suffering a heart attack in 2023, her daughter, who is an artist in Brooklyn, gave her a little encouragement to get back out on the playing field. “I was tired at the end of the day, but when I woke up the next day, I was looking forward to getting back at it," Meggs said. The Federal Duck Stamp was first created in 1934, and the first contest was held in 1949. Contest rules are strict, dictating everything down to the types of birds included. Meggs said she just thought it would be fun to enter. The stamp acts as a hunting license and conservation tool for aquatic birds. Sales from the stamps have raised more than $1.3 billion to conserve more than 6 million acres of wetlands habitat. Over 300 people entered the contest this year, and only three women have won in its 77-year history. “One man has commented, ‘this is a men’s game.’ Well, no, I don’t think so. So I want to tell the ladies, let’s have some fun with this," Meggs said. She said she had no expectations of winning when she entered. She did it for the love of the game. “I want to encourage people to go ahead and try things," she explained. "The world is so fascinating.” Even at 82, she is determined to experience all life has to offer, and to let others know, better late than never. “Remember what you love to do and don’t think just because you have some limitations brought on by birthdays, don’t think that you shouldn’t try," Meggs said. While Libby didn't end up winning the contest, she is continuing her art. She already has ideas for more children's books, and her message of chasing your dreams is one she hopes to keep spreading. ...read more read less