Exciting updates are coming to the shop. I've been busy creating new patterns, sourcing more eco-friendly organic cotton products, and researching table linens per customer's requests (samples from Canvistry are coming soon so follow along).

The most exciting news is that new holiday items are now available in the shop! I love the autumn and winter seasons so this is the most exciting development. There are gorgeous wrapping paper sheets luxe colors, earth-tone colors, traditional colors, and more. I'm on the lookout for Christmas stockings, so stay tuned. And in the spirit of Christmas, I've created a curated gifts section of the website so you don't have to scour each product individually.

Additionally, the Spoonflower shop is also being simultaneously updated with new patterns. The artworks are available as fabrics so you can make your own creations, or you can choose to purchase an array of soft furnishings already made just for you. Please note that some of the older designs have been archived.
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As part of my sustainability promise I am working with shops that do not hold inventory and create upon purchase order. This helps to reduce unnecessary waste of material, energy, and labor. 

It's official – we have moved back to America! In 2015, my husband and I moved away from Washington, DC as two, and are now returning back as a family of four.

Some of my supplies is being shipped, so in the meantime I'll be sharing new inspiration on Pinterest. I'm making plans to re-engage the studio and my art practice now that this major hurdle of internationally moving has been cleared. Part of this will be reintroducing Instagram—my previous account was a personal account and has been made so again, so a new fresh art account has been created.

Pinterest has been a wonderful place for me to share and find inspiration. Recently I've been adding more of my own work to Pinterest. I'm excited to share my inspiration boards with you all as I've been collecting and pinning for a long time now.

It's 2016. My finger hovers over the ‘return’ button, ready to send the email where I explain to my awesome boss at my awesome job that I am leaving. Simultaneously, my first child was 10 months old and trying desperately to walk but falling instead, grasping the air while fighting for independence. You might know the stage. I hesitated because I had already given so much of myself to creating, birthing, and caring for this little human. How could I possibly let this part of me go? How will I explain my absence of a “steady work history" after leaving my career to care for my children?

I've been thinking of updating my resume now. Soon it will be time to reinvigorate my career, but the question still stands: how will I explain the shift in my timeline. I read articles but most I found were largely unhelpful for my experience and situation. They were directed towards those laid-off, or changing careers, or quitting and traveling, or similar. None about motherhood. This position is not often referred to as a "job" but why did it feel so much like one at times? What exactly did I do doing those years? Turns out, I did a lot. Too much at times while always thinking it was too little. It turns out I never had a lack of steady work, but was tasked with increased responsibilities and I adapted in kind.

I'm planning to use a cover letter to explain my personal goal and how it has been achieved. While I've been out of the "game" for a while, I feel more prepared than ever to take on greater tasks with dynamic teams. Let's see how this goes.

My third painting for the City Gallery art exhibition was inspired by autumnal views from Collyweston. I adore this village—ancient stones, grand houses, quaint cottages, and the best scenic views.

Excitement and nerves are running high as the Just Beyond collection nears the launch date. The pre-launch has started and Collectors have been browsing the shop and virtual exhibition since this morning. The press releases are out and being published.

So much painting. So much learning. So much planning. And above all else, so much fun. Pre-covid, I was a stay-at-home mother of two looking for ways to get back into career-life. Now I've launched an online shop showcasing my previously-private works of art. I have a wonderful network that has pushed me through to success. So to all of you, thank you. And to myself, THANK YOU.

If you would like to join the fun, sign up for The Collector where you will instantly receive your early access code plus 10% off.

According to Forestry England, Forest Bathing is a Japanese method of relaxation called shinrin yoku. The translation of this term is "Nature therapy". Breathing deeply while taking in nature with all senses and maintaining quiet can de-stress, boost health, and improve wellbeing in both children and adults.

Another benefit of forest bathing is the phytoncides, a chemical produced by trees that aims to ward off disease, unwanted bugs, and so on. When humans come in contact with this chemical, it can boost our immune system and be used as a preventative treatment. ​

Collectors will have the chance to browse the Just Beyond collection in a beautiful and modern virtual exhibition space. By using a computer mouse or keyboard arrows, one can "walk" through the space and view the artwork on the walls. 

I'll be reshooting my artwork this weekend (morning light has beens superb lately) and get my art into the virtual gallery in time for the Collectors-only pre-launch on September 4th. I'm considering one wing for the framed originals and one wing for giclée prints.

​If you build an exhibition, send me the link as I never turn down a gallery visit.