Do what you do so well that they will want to see it again and bring their friends.
Walt Disney
Customer Connections
Vending at the International Marketplace last weekend started out strong then… well, it quieted down. That’s retail for you: one minute you’re swamped, the next you’re debating if a third coffee is a good idea. (It is. Always is!)
It was the opening weekend, and while things were a bit slow, everything looked great. I can see potential and I’m excited to see where it goes. I’m waiting to hear back on a few art shows before committing to more dates at this location.
Now, onto my favorite part: the people and their stories!
One woman was deciding between two magnets… then read the story on the Heart Energy painting. Turns out she recently had a heart transplant evaluation (thankfully, she doesn’t need one). The story hit home for her—and instead of choosing, she bought all three magnets. She said, “I need all of these,”. My heart melted a bit.
There was a woman looking for something for a friend. Usually, I try not to play art therapist, but I felt a nudge to ask. A friend’s dad was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. I shared the meaning behind the Wave of Emotion card. She didn’t even let me finish. “I’ll take it,” she said. “It’s going in the mail this week.” That kind of certainty? Goosebumps!
A mom was shopping for her
daughters headed off to college.
She wanted something they could hang up to know mom was always there. One daughter was anxious about leaving home, the other a theater major who loves to sing and be in the spotlight. She picked two magnets: one with the painting Energy of Becoming and the message, “don’t be afraid to fly alone, find a path that is your own”. Perfect for her anxious flyer. For her theater girl? Songbird of Hope with the Swedish proverb, “those who wish to sing always find a song.” The smile on mom’s face? Priceless.
A friend bought Heavenly Guardian for his niece, who was close to her late grandma. It was his way of saying, “She’s still with you.” And that kind of comfort, wrapped in color and canvas, is what keeps me going.
It means the world to hear how people use my art to support and connect with others—and that’s been my intention.
There were a few more stories, but these touched my heart.
Reflecting on Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day has felt a little tender ever since I lost my mom in 2009 to a distracted driver. Each year, I try to focus more on being a mom and receiving love, rather than sitting in my grief.
This year, I kept my heart and hands busy. Friday evening, I met with a client for an energy session (which I love doing). On Saturday, one of my besties and I had a craft day—making candles and room sprays (one of my self-care activities, by the way). On Mother’s Day, I asked for no gifts, just time together. I spent the morning planting in the boulevard garden, we went to a play in the afternoon, and later my daughter and I went thrifting before my husband and I grabbed a quick bite and relaxed. 
I didn’t have time to dwell, which honestly is what I needed. Especially since this was the first Mother’s Day without her mom—my grandma—who passed earlier this year. I knew the grief was close, so instead I leaned into celebrating time with my little family.
Speaking of the play—“Finding J. Mitchell”—it’s a comedy murder mystery play written and produced by my talented friend Jamey, who I featured in my April small biz/art spotlight. There are clues throughout the show, but none of us (me, my daughter, or my husband) could figure out the ending! It was smart, funny, and full of surprises.
I highly recommend checking it out—it’s running now through June 1. You’ll be supporting a local artist, cast, and theater.
I’ll be announcing new pop-up events and locations soon. Stay in the loop—more to come!
Have no fear of perfection—you’ll never reach it.
Salvador Dali
gem from my childhood—how 5-year-old me boldly drew Bert and Ernie in pen. No erasing, no second-guessing, just fearless creativity!
Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.
Pablo Picasso
When you lose your grandparents and start going through their things… and find everything.
I found a drawing I made when I was five—Bert and Ernie, done entirely in pen. Bold move for a kindergartener, right? No erasing, just full confidence.
On their wall was a painting I did during my first job out of college—an illustration created for an agricultural catalog. I gave it to them because, well, they were always in my corner, cheering me on from crayon (or pen) to professional.
They held onto it all. Every little piece of who I was becoming.
It reminded me how powerful it is to have people who believe in you, no matter your age or medium. We all need someone who keeps our art on the fridge—or in a drawer—for decades.
Creativity takes courage.
Henri Matisse
Reflecting on the St. Paul Art Crawl – a few highlights:
- A past co-worker stopped by the show, and honestly, it totally made my day. You never realize how much you miss people until you see them again!
- On Sunday, our daughter (and fellow artist!) hung out with me at the table. She got to experience people admiring her artwork—and even saw one of her pieces find a new home! Proud mom moment, for sure.
- Met some fellow artists and had great conversations about creativity and community.
- Jumped out of my comfort zone and displayed a work in progress painting. Some commented it looked finished to them.
It is in the dark times that the light of friendship shines brightest.
Richard Paul Evans
When my mom was killed by a distracted driver, in 2009, I had so many people say, “let me know if there is anything you need”. I had no idea what I needed – I was in shock and frozen with grief.
The next day, my best friend was with me and made a list of things she was going to do to support me. She took me to my doctor’s appointment, shopped for a black dress and brought me a few options, bought groceries, organized a meal train and drove 3 hours to the funeral so she could help with our toddler. I will always be grateful.
When I created the greeting card based on the painting, Wave of Emotion, I was purposeful in not designing it as a sympathy card, although it can certainly be used as one. Life can be downright rough, and we need support. The card’s intent is to acknowledge your friend or loved one’s emotions and allows you to list ways you can support them.
If someone is going through an emotional time, even small, tangible acts of support can make a huge difference.
Here are some meaningful ideas to help:
Practical Help
- Bring or send meals (homemade or takeout)—one less thing for them to think about.
- Offer to run errands (groceries, post office, pharmacy).
- Help with housework—laundry, dishes, vacuuming.
- Walk their dog or care for pets if they need a break.
- Drive them to appointments or pick up prescriptions.
Thoughtful Gestures
- Drop off a care package (snacks, cozy socks, a candle, a handwritten note).
- Send a card or letter just to say, “I’m thinking of you.”
- Give a gift card for food, coffee, or self-care (spa, streaming service, etc.).
- Create a playlist or share uplifting content that might brighten their day.
- Schedule a monthly date so they don’t start to isolate
Emotional Support
- Check in regularly—a simple “how are you today?” goes a long way.
- Listen without trying to fix things. Sometimes they just need to vent.
- Remind them they’re not alone and that it’s okay to not be okay.
- Help organize support if needed (like starting a meal train or group text).
Companionship
- Sit with them in silence, if that’s all they need.
- Invite them out for a walk or coffee—low-pressure and comforting.
- Offer to help with kids if they’re a parent and need some downtime.
If you know them well, tailor your help to their style and needs. Sometimes the best support is just consistently showing up—quietly, gently, and without judgment.
Have thoughts to add to the list or interested in purchasing the greeting card? Send me a message, I’d love to hear from you.
We take care of the future best by taking care of the present now.
Jon Kabat-Zinn
Here’s a few ways I’ve been showing myself kindness:
- Grounding: Daily meditation helps me stay centered, even just a few minutes.
- Laughter: A comfort show can be an instant mood boost.
- Journaling: Writing out 10 things I’m grateful for shifts my energy quickly.
- Helping: Offering support to a neighbor reminded me how powerful giving can be.
- Movement: When I feel stuck (literally or emotionally), moving my body helps unfreeze the tension.
- Connection: Whether it’s a wise friend or the goofy one who makes me laugh—talking helps.
Here are a few of my favorite quick mood-boosters:
- Dr. Kristin Neff: one of my favs is “The Three Components of Self-Compassion”
- Thich Nhat Hahn: anything but I love his book, The Art of Living
- I Love Lucy: Short clips on YouTube like Vitameatavegimen — This one never fails me!
- Entrepreneurs On Fire Podcast: Loved the episode with Marilyn Tam
Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see the shadows. It’s what sunflowers do.
Helen Keller
When it rains, look for rainbows.
Oscar Wilde
If everything around you seems dark, look again, you may be the light.
Rumi
All kids need is a little help, a little hope and somebody who believes in them.
Magic Johnson
Saturday’s show at Celtic Junction Arts Center turned out pretty well, although a bit slow. My booth neighbor mentioned that calling this year “slow” was putting it mildly, but we agreed that, visitor-for-visitor, we did okay!
Even better, some of my favorite people came by to support the show. I’m so grateful for my friends and neighbors—they really make these events extra special.
Biggest highlight? The kids! Almost every child who stopped at my booth seemed captivated by Songbird of Hope. I sold multiple magnets and prints of that piece alone.
One boy, around 9 or 10, was so sweet. He whispered to his mom that my art reminded him of his grandma’s paintings, and he was really drawn to five pieces: Energy of Becoming, Blossoms of Love, Heart Energy, Harmony in Motion, and, of course, Songbird of Hope. His mom nudged him toward Energy of Becoming, but he chose Songbird of Hope. She bought him the print and also picked up a butterfly magnet that says, “Don’t be afraid to fly alone. Find a path that is your own.” Then she sweetly reminded him that he didn’t have to follow the crowd and that he was perfect just as he was. Such a beautiful moment to witness.
No tears were shed this time (a first!), but there were still plenty of sentimental moments. People kept asking for my story cards, and the magnets were a huge hit. I even sold out of a few designs, like Songbird of Hope—other parents bought it for their kids, too.
Maybe that was a message – let’s hold on to hope.
The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away
Pablo Picasso
A peaceful heart leads to a healthy body.
Proverbs 14:30
Life has been a rollercoaster, and I feel like I’ve been hit by a truck… well, I actually *was* hit by a truck. Last week, I had an accident with a semi. I’m grateful to be okay, and believe it or not, our Honda still drove afterward, though it’s officially totaled.
Before the accident, I’d been getting signs to take it easy, but of course, I ignored them. I don’t feel like I need to rest. Things are stressful; I have a lot on my mind and my “to-do” list is a mile long. I mean, I took a bubble bath last month… okay, maybe it was two months ago. And I just got back from a retreat, it was intense but shouldn’t I be recharged?
Then after the accident, as if the universe hadn’t been clear enough, a video titled “Slow down” popped up on my Facebook feed. You’re kidding me, right? It’s Joyce Meyer. My mom adored her, so I’ve listened a few times. Her thing is everyday life humor, but with a Christian twist.
She said: “The more you do, the more addicted you get to doing, and rest becomes boring.” Ouch! I hit replay. Because, yep, that’s me. I love making lists, and live to cross things off. If I finish something that wasn’t on the list, I’ll add it just so I can check it off.
It got me thinking about the Buddhist teaching that slowing down leads to peace and contentment. The Buddha said, ‘My practice is the practice of nonpractice.’ Thich Nhat Hahn, the Zen master, explains this meaning as to “Give up all struggle. Allow yourself to be, to rest.”
Then there’s Dr. Amit Goswami, the physicist and author, who once said the secret of life isn’t just to “do, do, do” nor to “be, be, be.” Instead, it’s this rhythm: “do, be, do, be, do, be.”
Maybe that’s what I need to learn—how to balance the dance between action and rest, ambition and peace.
So, if you’ve been feeling it’s time to take a break, do it! Trust me. Because sometimes life doesn’t just nudge us to slow down… it sends a semi to make sure we do.
If you cannot find peace within yourself, you will never find it anywhere else.
Marvin Gaye
Realize that everything connects to everything else
Leonardo DaVinci
Here’s a quick recap of Saturday’s art show: sales were slow, but the connections? Amazing!
There was a lot of construction on the main road to the park, which impacted attendance. One of the vendors mentioned last year was way better.
My sales ended up being to other artists, which honestly feels like a huge compliment! We exchanged business cards and resources, which is a huge help.
One woman became emotional while reading the stories behind my paintings, and I gave her a hug as she shared her grief with me. This isn’t the first time this has happened and I take it as a sign I’m on the right path.
I hit it off with my booth neighbor—we have so much in common! She’s an abstract artist, and I’ll be featuring her in one of my monthly artist highlights.
To see things in the seed, that is genius.”
Lao Tzu
But the absolute best moment? A little boy, maybe 7 or 8, was running down the aisle, suddenly stopped in front of my booth, and shouted “WOW!” That totally made my day.
We all admire the beauty of a butterfly, but we often forget the journey it went through to become that way.
Dr. Maya Angelou
Yesterday, I stopped by a community outreach event in my neighborhood. I was invited by the director of the Hamline Midway Coalition. If you’re familiar with the Midway, you’ll know it’s the midway point between downtown St. Paul and Minneapolis. Unfortunately, its home to many struggling with homelessness, mental health issues, and addiction. But the neighbors and organizations here? Some of the kindest and most caring folks I’ve ever met.
I spent time visiting with different organizations, most offer support for the homeless and food-insecure. Many focus on helping young people dealing with mental illness, addiction, and those at risk or survivors of sex trafficking. They offer everything from food and shelter to counseling and other crucial resources.
In her book, Invisible Acts of Power, Caroline Myss writes “Everybody notices a homeless person, even if they pretend not to. They may turn away, and engage in conversation with a friend, just to avoid seeing the homeless person. Yet they are still extremely aware that there’s a homeless person on the block. They may not want to respond, or feel the vulnerability of that homeless person.”
My daughter once said… you know all these people were someone’s baby. Admittedly, I’m often uncomfortable, but after one encounter I now smile and acknowledge those on the street. I had stopped to give a woman my Target promotional gift card (I rarely carry cash). I apologized since I had no idea how much was on it. We talked and she thanked me for treating her like a human.
Imagine how it must feel to show gratitude for being treated like a human?
Butterflies can’t see their wings. They can’t see how truly beautiful
they are, but everyone else can. People are like that as well.
Naya Rivera
People who work in these organizations don’t do it for the money, they do it because they care. They’re not uncomfortable with the homeless person’s situation; they see them as a person in need.
I shared a bit about what I do and there was interest in energy work. Honestly, caregivers are the ones I’m passionate about helping because, let’s face it, we suck at taking care of ourselves. With my current pay-what-you-can model, I may have a few new clients soon.
I was invited to give a wellness talk to a nonprofit for caregivers as well as to participate in St. Paul’s Fall Art Crawl. But what really stood out to me was when I showed my latest painting, Energy of Becoming. While I was explaining its meaning, a resource officer seemed a bit distracted. Then he said, “You might need to paint another butterfly. One was hovering around you and almost landed on you, but you kept moving. Plus, there’s a little girl behind you twirling in a monarch butterfly wings costume.”
Life can feel overwhelming, with all our society is facing right now, but we don’t have to solve everything all at once. Sometimes, it’s enough to just create a safe space for caterpillars to become butterflies.
Color is my day-long obsession, joy and torment.
Claude Monet
At my last art show, a few people told me my work reminded them of Monet. That was a huge compliment, but honestly, it caught me by surprise. Aside from my painting “Water Lilies Dancing,” which is actually a study of one of Monet’s pieces, I’ve never really thought of my style being similar to his.
When I was an art student, we studied all the great masters, and I remember how much Monet was obsessed with color. He would paint the same scene over and over, capturing the way the colors changed with the light throughout the day.
I wouldn’t say I share that obsession, but I’ve noticed that some of my best work comes from those unexpected moments. Take Broken into Beauty, for example. That piece was a happy accident—totally channeling my inner Bob Ross there! I’d been doing so much detail work that I just wanted to let loose for a while, which led to that bright green and yellow background with the kintsugi pottery. I’d planned to change it later, but once I stepped back, I actually liked it.
My color palette and medium have definitely changed since college. Back then, I used oils and stuck to darker, more subtle colors.
The Wall by Laurie Hevier
Now, I paint with acrylics, and my colors are brighter and more vibrant.
I’ve found that the more I try to force a painting to look a certain way, the more frustrated I get. It’s when I let go and just go with the flow that the painting reveals itself to me. As a recovering control freak, letting go isn’t exactly my strong suit. In the corporate world, being in control worked well for me, but in art, it’s a different story.
Funny enough, the same thing applies to energy work. My mentor is always reminding me to let go of the outcome, trust my inner guidance, have fun and allow things to unfold naturally. 
Starting your own business is not for the faint of heart, but it’s all about finding the right balance between working hard, letting go and having fun. Sometimes, it makes my brain hurt, but I know I need to have more fun with my work. Like Albert Einstein said, Creativity is intelligence having fun. That’s something I’m learning to embrace more every day.
Miracles come in moments. Be ready and willing.
Wayne Dyer
Last week, I started reflecting on my philosophy when it comes to painting and realized that what I do is paint miracles. Miracles are all around us, but often we don’t see them.
In my painting, Blossoms of Love, I shared my inspiration of one miracle. Several months after my mom was killed, I received a rose tree. I had no clue how to care for it, so we just stuck it in the ground. I read that every fall, you’re supposed to bury it to protect it from winter, then uncover it in spring. That first spring, it bloomed beautifully. That was a miracle in itself.
After a few years of stunning blooms, the tree went dormant. The leaves grew back green and lush, but there were no buds. By the end of 2020, our family was going through a tough time. Our daughter was sick, and as parents, we felt lost. We sought advice from professionals, got on waiting lists for tests, and I dove into researching-nothing helped.
That summer, we visited Minnehaha Falls to take photos. Lexi’s struggles were visible in the pictures. I tried to stay upbeat, but inside, I was breaking. I remember asking mom for help, saying, “I need you.”
When we got home and walked into the backyard, I saw my rose tree. It had the most beautiful bloom. Chills ran through me. How had I not noticed that bloom before? Was this mom letting me know she was there?
Was it a coincidence?
Then I remembered something Dr. Wayne Dyer once said:
“There’s no such thing as a coincidence. In fact, coincidence is a mathematical term. In geometry, when two angles coincide, they fit together perfectly. Somehow, we’ve taken a term that means ‘two things that fit together perfectly’ and turned it into something that happens by accident.”
Since mom’s passing, I’ve experienced dozens of moments like this. Miracles were always around, but sometimes I was so caught up in life that I didn’t see them until the last thread I was holding onto started to unravel.
Our problems didn’t magically disappear, but I received a message that the love between a parent and child is always present. We’re not alone, even in our darkest moments.
Love is eternal and that’s worth holding on to.
