Issue #18

it's the little things

Dear Reader,

In the last couple of months, I made a big move. I happily said goodbye to the big city of Nashville and hello to the rolling hills, wild turkeys, and beavers of rural Tennessee. It may not be forever but it will be home for the next few years. I'm still buried by boxes but I wanted to say hello.

Here are little things that I'm grateful for right now during this major shift:

Limited options
Everything I usually use for my artwork is in boxes and I failed to label the boxes so the only creative options I've had is writing and photography. It's been easier to just open a blank page and let the words out. It has me considering minimizing what items I leave in plain sight to keep this momentum. Since I'm always working on art projects I have a lot of supplies, papers, and canvases out. Maybe they need to be in a separate area. I'm pondering a solution for environment design options in a limited space. Please share your favorite office design resources!

Windows
I never realized how happy windows make my whole family, including the cats. I'm making it a point to leave most of the windows free of clutter and make them a focal point. What is it about a window that elicits pause and self-reflection?

Thrift Stores

We had to let go of a lot of things during the move. We donated our extra possessions to our local thrift stores instead of throwing them away. In turn, thrift stores have been my go-to resource for back-to-school. I learned very quickly children outgrow most things in a month (or less!). Additionally, the small intimate shops allow me to get to know the new community I'm entering.

Pieces of July

What are your favorite memories from July?

Breathe in

Close your eyes

And take three minutes to cherish them.

They will never happen exactly the same way again.

It's Hot but I'm Dreaming About Snow

Before the move took over the past few months I was working on some wintery illustrations.

The kids are packed up in a box somewhere but I was able to finish one of the spreads. I have two more to go.

Thank you so much for being here and keeping in touch. It means the world to me! I want to know how you're doing, share your news by replying to this letter and I'll be happy to spread the word. I read every single one!