[2026] “View from the lawn” 12×16 Acrylic on Canvas

Last December, I started what was then, an unintentional break from social media. I had shared what was just a cute photo of my cat Hermione, who had just climbed up the Christmas tree. At that point social media had felt a little tired to me, but you know, you soldier on because that’s just what social media tells you to do, right?

But at that point, I was starting to realize that what I shared on my social media account was shifting and it felt like it was probably time to start making some changes. All of my accounts had been private–and for good reason; primarily what I shared was family life. I didn’t want or need strangers looking at my kids first day of school photos. Despite it being private, I was starting to feel conflicted about sharing my kids online. They were always aware of what was being shared, but still, I felt like there needed to be more say on their part. After archiving all the photos of my kids, I was left with…cats. While that is not bad (only crazy people don’t like cats) I didn’t feel the need to have an instagram account that was devoted to cats.

While this was all ruminating in my mind, a few other things were happening. Earlier on this year, we made the decision to build a small art studio on our property. I was feeling a bit like I had no space of my own to create without disruptions. There had been several attempts to take time painting or creating just in the kitchen (which was the only free room with space to create) but you know how it is in a public space like that. You start doing something, and then it’s dinner, and then all the kid’s backpacks are strewn about, papers are piled, and suddenly you find yourself giving up and putting it all away.

So in early spring, we set about building the studio.

We were very fortunate that much of our community is in construction, so we were able to get a lot of materials for free. I was also very fortunate that my husband knows how to do this kind of thing, so he spearheaded the whole project (with some help from family and friends now and then.)

While this was all in the works, I was also fortunate to be able to take a 3 month sabbatical from my work. My job is creative by nature, and so consequently it can be difficult to find creative energy outside of work. After spending the first part of my sabbatical focusing on finding some semblance of rest, I found myself feeling excited to create. Not only that, but I feel excited to share what I am creating with the world. That hasn’t been a reality for quite some time!

I can’t wait to share all the things I have been (and will be) working on. I am looking forward to this new chapter.