Michelle's Blog

What A Whirlwind!
I recently got back from the 2025 Atlanta Gift Show, and wow, what a whirlwind! Every year, this event holds a special place in my heart, but this one? It was next-level amazing. I can’t even begin to explain how...
My new art studio…
I told myself that this time around I’m going to invest in some good pieces of furniture to make it super comfortable and so that everything has a place to go. And so far, I’m stoked with the pieces I’ve added...
Our Holiday Traditions...
My kids have teased me that I’m terrible at sticking with traditions. I love the IDEA of them, I just think I get bored of them after a few years and want to try other ones. So…. here are few...
Coastal Memories
My husband and I lived at the beach in Southern California when we were first together. I loved trying to surf and hanging out in the water. That is, until I started fishing right up from where we’d frequently go...
Finding Joy Everyday…
Random things that are inspiring and making me happy... Estate Sales have been amazing these past few months and I’ve found the perfect place for my little basket collection. I’m still making sourdough bread and am happy to say I...
My Dining Room Studio
For the past two years I’ve been using our dining room as my art studio and it’s worked well. It’s a decent sized room, with good light and high ceilings. And I’m a firm believer that you can create magic...
Farming and the country lifestyle is near and dear to my heart.
The picture below is of my great grandparents, my grandma and her siblings as they were heading from NY to the west coast. They were a farming family and continued to be, until they passed away. I have such fond...
A few things…
Found a clever way to transport a snack plate to a friends for dinner. Also, thanks to Dani & Thomas, discovered these stuffed pimentos & grilled olives from Trader Joe’s. Bike rides with friends are the best! I love summer...
My Travel Bucket List
I’ve been thinking about this topic quite a lot lately. I’m over 50 now and who knows how long I will have a strong and healthy body to travel and see all the things I still want to see. I’m...
This is Why I love where I live!
The smell of the Creosote plant is strong & lovely right now. My grand helped me gather a couple sprigs to pretty up the nook in our “cozy” room. It’s so pretty. The Tucson Sonoran Desert has inspiration blooming everywhere...
100 Day Challenge
So I decided to join a group of creatives doing a 100 day challenge. The challenge is open to anyone and it can involve anything you want it to be. It could be a build up of little things to...
Eight Artists in Oaxaca
What happens when EIGHT ARTISTS (several who didn’t know each other) decide to meet up in Oaxaca, Mexico?! Let me just start by saying, @gaylekabaker was very thoughtful in gathering a group together that had a lot in common but...
Make It Happen
Discovering my passion for art was an unexpected turn in my life journey. I drew a lot when I was a child. My mom was an artist, and I was always in awe of what she could create. I never...
Atlanta Gift Show 2024
Well, THAT was fun! We introduced a lot of beautiful and clever new clocks at the Atlanta Gift Show last week. It was great to have two signings so I could see and hang out with many of our customers!...
'Tis The Season
I love December for hot drinks, sitting by the fire, friends & family gatherings and celebrating the birth of Jesus! This year we’ll be staying down in Tucson, AZ for Christmas. My mom will be coming down to join us...
The Season of Thankfulness
Fall/Winter brings all the feels. Even in Tucson, Arizona where we can still ride our bikes with short sleeve jerseys by mid-day! I love this time of year. I start lighting candles, planning inside projects, nesting and thinking about what...
A Busy Month
It’s been a busy past month! I’ve been painting a lot (it feels amazing!), family & house stuff, sick twice😩 and I did the @cycleoregon ride! I’ve spent the last couple of months building up my miles to prepare for...
Things that keep me in a positive mindset…
Of course, one of them is creating. I have an incessant need to create & make. It gives me a sense of accomplishment seeing ideas come to life and having something tangible to show for my day. Don’t get me...
Michelle's Musings July 2023
This past month has been filled with new projects, family and summer fun...  I sewed this pair of pants, which has been on my “want to do” list FOREVER! The lovely Anna Miller was a wonderful and patient teacher. I can’t...
Michelle’s Musings June 2023
What’s currently inspiring me? Being back in the PNW and walking through Portland’s Alberta neighborhood! The area is full of art, murals and color. Such a good way to get the creative juices flowing. And always love a good graffiti/street...
Mother's Day Inspiration
Things that are inspiring me at the moment… I did a 50 for 50 list back in October when I turned 50. It’s mostly fun stuff since those tend to be the things I put off and don’t seem to...