I have found it quite challenging to find any inspiration to write here (gestures at world over last few months), though witnessing the blossoming of spring has kickstarted a well of energy in a way I was not expecting. I am finding myself, quite coincidentally, surrounded by new things, people, and places—all of which have sent a jolt of inspired creative energy through me.
I have long felt like there are “seasons” in my life of acceleration and retreat, though I am finding solace in this energetic alignment to the literal seasons. With each new day a new blossom is born in our yard, and I am particularly fond of seeing perrennials or plants I’ve previously planted reemerge more hearty, full, and rooted than before. Some favorites that come to mind are the Mediterranean Spurge (it’s everywhere in Seattle!) which I fondly call Shrek ears, the bluebells that pepper our front yard, a thick grove of miniature yarrow I seeded last year as groundcover (pollinator lawns!!), a rhubarb inherited from a fond friend that has returned more robust than years past. Already, some seeds are sprouting that I seeded just weeks ago: carrots, tomatoes, hyacinth, zinnia, kale, wildflowers, clover. Mysterious flowers that I haven’t identified are returning in my flowers-only raised bed. The garden is alive and I am too.
In the last few weeks I’ve stumbled into changes—a new studio (more below), new work clients, new friends entering my orbit, new writing class (in which I am writing fiction for the first time since I was a little kid—I understand the anguish now). I said goodbye to my 2009 Subaru, who I loved deeply. All good shifts but also, a lot!
In consulting A Year in Practice by Jacqueline Suskin, I am learning about how to harness this spring energy—and also not get swept away by it. I love to snowball, run away with an idea, become consumed, go too far, burn out and crash. And so, my intention is to stay dedicated to this new energy and move with awareness and caution. Welcome it with open arms but tame it ever so gently.
new studio
I signed a lease to a studio space for my textile art practice, something I’ve long daydreamed of. I’ve been grateftul for my office in our home, but for quilting and textile art it can be a challenge to work within such a small space. Plus, my creative practice has seriously waned in the last year. I am excited to spread out, get messy, and see what comes out. I am staying dedicated to a personal mission to develop a more sustained art practice this year. Stay tuned!
passing obsessions:
What I’m reading/listening to/consuming at the moment.
🌀 If you’re interested in embroidery, I highly recommend checking out Mystical Stitches by Christi Johnson. This book is divine, beautiful and wonderfully put together.
🌀 As If We Were Staying, substack by Spencer R. Scott
Going to keep sharing this one - Scott’s ability to wayfind into a more forgiving future despite all current signs pointing to chaos is enlightening. Been following his work for years and highly recommend it. “Finding and creating alternatives to the end of the world.”
🌀 everything Onya Nurve all day every day
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🌀 We just finished the entirety of The Owl House, an animated tv show on Disney+ about magic and witches with many a queer character. It was so cute and wholesome! I wish I had seen a show like it as a kid. (It’s banned in many countries for said queer characters and ultimately cancelled by Disney for not “matching the vision” of the network—so I highly recommend adding to the view count.)
Makers 4 Mutual Aid’s April Raffle is live! Beautiful offerings including a silk mohair scarf knit by my beloved. Check it out below:
Lastly, I’m looking for feedback. If there’s anything about this newsletter that you like, or want to see more of, or please send me a message and let me know. I am at a crossroads with this email list and want it to be of value to my lovely subscribers!
Thanks for being here!
xx
<3 <3 <3 <3 <3