by Linda | Feb 19, 2014 | my creative journal
I often have no problem diving into sketch mode and drawing to my hearts content. It’s fun to invent characters and bring them to life with pen in hand.
The trouble is how to finish it all off. That’s where I definitely fall short. I can never decide how to color up my work. Should it be an acrylic painting? A watercolor? Collage fun? Copics? There are too many possibilities and that seriously drives me into a panic and wide-eyed, head-twirling stand still. Sigh.
Enter the computer. Oh, for the love of digital tools and the Undo button! With a scanner and Photoshop, I’m able to load up my sketches onto the computer and play with a million color combinations. Yes, it can be a time consuming affair, but it’s definitely worth the time. This is what they call color studies, right?
I’m loving the variation and freedom to play with color, since I consider color theory one of my weaknesses! How do you like my little girl sketch variations?
Pretty cool that with technology, we really have so much power – muhahaha! Now, if I could only decide which version to go with! What do you think?
by Linda | Feb 12, 2014 | DIY printables, my creative journal
My first venture into the online digital world was when I was only 14 years old. I think it was a local library class that taught HTML, so I created my very first web page and declared my existence online. Do you remember those flashing marquees and gaudy web colors?
The online world has definitely changed since then. Don’t you think we are all so darn sophisticated these days? With just a few clicks, you can make yourself a beautiful blog. Although I know, ultimately it’s always easier said than done.
Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about this blog and how to move forward. I know that we all curate what we post, more or less. But the more I planned, the more I felt it was too mapped out. There are a lot of tips and tricks out there about blogging successfully, but the heart of the matter is figuring out what blogging means to you personally.
I’ve been blogging since my teenagers years, on and off, from platform to platform and I must admit that ultimately, I write because I need to express my thoughts. Something about getting them out and published, as if I was chatting to a friend about my life. Now that I live abroad, more than ever I feel so detached at times and often miss the company of just hangin’ with my girls, you know?
I also like to create and experiment with DIY crafts and my design and illustration. And I’m not ashamed to admit that having an audience gives me motivation. Perhaps it’s simply the act of documentation that really does it, no matter how many or few people read this blog.
Finally, there’s this thing with community and being a part of a larger whole. I’ve always loved being online and involved in the digital sphere of life. Although commenting was much more common in the beginning days of blogging, now the conversation has simply moved to the various social media outlets. But I think it still all starts with the content on a blog.
So, I will continue to blog. I’m just readjusting my focus and ultimately going to get a bit more selfish about this space. I’m not a professionally blogger, so there’s no need to follow editorial rules or business tricks. That’s not what this space is for.
It’s definitely nice to have some clarity, even if there are still a lot of questions and fuzziness all around. A single point of clarity is something I can hold onto. In trying to unknot all the issues in my head regarding this blog, first I had to identify the issues. I’ve run into problems of trying to create content just for the sake of blogging, thus losing my passion. I’ve also run into censorship issues, wondering if I should share this or not that… whether it “fits” the focus of the blog or not. I’ve always had trouble keeping up with posts as well and being a new mom, time will only become more and more scarce.
My blog problems aren’t really that dramatic – many of us run into these issues every so often. I’m shifting my perspective and realizing they can be easily resolved. First, I must have my heart into this space, so I will blog only what I want to. There’s no need to fit into any kind of box… this is MY blog after all. Everything fits in the category of me (duh!). And the easiest way to keep up is to lower expectations and commit to a realistic schedule.
Sounds pretty straightforward and non-dramatic, huh? Should have realized all this sooner, I know.
All those words above lead me to my real point (see how I like to write?) – that I should be living more authentically and proudly. Enough of feeling inadequate or not up to par or outside the popular crowd. Who cares! There’s no need to make pretense and seem a certain way just for the blog. Living abroad in Italy is exciting and amazing, so I need to embrace it. And we can never do it all, but we can do a whole lot with the time we are given nevertheless.
So this blog is about documenting my sort of normal, yet not so normal wondrous life. From living as an expat in the beautiful Tuscan hills to designing and illustrating the cuteness that I adore to motherhood to DIY crafty goodness that just makes me happy!
Now, I feel so much better about moving forward and doing what’s real and true to my heart. Yay! The guiding principle is to remember that it’s about living my authentic life and making sure it’s something I can be proud of.
I’ve created a printable of inspirational hearts (since it’s Valentine week as well) to remind myself of these principles.
Feel free to download the PDF for your personal use.
I hope you are inspired to just be yourself and do what is best for you. Thanks for reading and sharing in my story. I really do appreciate the time you take to visit my blog.
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by Linda | Oct 9, 2013 | my creative journal
For those gloomy days when everything seems to go wrong for you…
For those days when it seems as if you’ll never ever come up with another good idea…
For those days when you doubt yourself in so many ways…
Today was one of those days. So I turn to my sketchbooks and journals. I flip back through them and remind myself of the good times.
All those cool ideas I thought of and the rush of creativity.
I’ve been in the zone… I can do this!
However, it’s not just for picking yourself up after a creative failure… it’s helpful for any kind of bad day.
Your past gives you strength to move forward, don’t you think?
Gotta dust myself off and move on.
by Linda | Oct 4, 2013 | my creative journal
I’ve been working on my creative dreams for years now and although I’ve conquered many fears and achieved much success, there’s still a long road ahead of me.
When embarking on something new the initial excitement and rush of adrenaline propels me forward. But I often get stuck and start doubting myself at some point. Perhaps I don’t see the results I expected or plans don’t go as planned. I get impatient and disheartened. I can see my dream so clearly, but it’s just out of reach… or it’s not materializing fast enough.
I know how frustrating those feelings are.
Often, I step back and take a look at the big picture to get better perspective of the situation. Know that everything requires it’s due time. I look back to celebrate the successes and look forward to see what is worth working towards and waiting for.
Anxiety and anticipation can be excruciating, but try to flip it around and enjoy the excitement and ride over the bumps. Savor the moments, because they will pass by so quickly and one day you will look back with nostalgia.
Todd Henry from the Accidental Creative says that “we are either growing or we are dying creatively.” I really take that statement to heart. We must be open and flexible – perhaps even eager and willing to grow and change with the times.
Roll with it, my dear. If things need to be reworked, replanned, rescheduled… STOP … take a deep breath … and go for it. Nothing is a waste of time. It’s only experienced time, contributing to your life, building your character and wisdom.
A big lesson I’ve learned is to never give up on myself – no matter what is happening all around me.
I am not defined by the results of my business… never.
With hard work and determination, it will work out in the end. Be practical, but be an optimist. Life is definitely sweeter that way.
This post is a part of the blog tour for the Soul*Full Summit hosted by Catherine Just. I’m excited to join in on the event that empowers creatives to take action toward their passions and dreams while helping create more opportunities for people with Down syndrome.
by Linda | Sep 4, 2013 | my creative journal
I’ve always been a fan of Blurb and have made many photobooks throughout the years printed by them. I’ve loved the results and it’s really a great way to get lots of photos printed and ready for friends and family to enjoy.
Currently there’s a deal with Blurb with the idea of creating thank you books for your relatives – in celebration of Thanksgiving! User code TAKE15 now through 9/9 to get 15% off – sweet!
What’s your experience with photobooks? Will you give it a try?
by Linda | Jun 26, 2013 | my creative journal
The Declaration of You is published by North Light Craft Books with readers getting all the permission they’ve craved to step passionately into their lives, discover how they and their gifts are unique and uncover what they are meant to do! This post is part of The Declaration of You’s BlogLovin’ Tour, which I’m thrilled to participate in alongside over 100 other creative bloggers. You can get the book on Amazon, my affiliate link: The Declaration of You
How often do you actually take time for self-care? It’s often the last thing on our list of priorities because there’s a lot of guilt and shame around taking time for yourself. I think the wisdom of taking care of yourself comes with age and that is certainly true in my life. In my younger years, it seemed easy to plow through and push myself to the max with seemingly little consequences. Pulling all-nighters wasn’t such a horrible thing or skipping lunch didn’t seem to slow me down too much.
But I remember one night during highschool my mom came into my room and told me school didn’t matter as much as my health and that I should go to sleep. I should mention that doing well in school is paramount in my family – I mean – it was expected. So this declaration of self-care from my mom was a turning point for me. Ever since then I’ve constantly been reminded of her wisdom – yes, mama knows best.
Maybe I’m just an old curmudgeon or maybe all the past neglect is finally catching up with me. Self-care is not just a nice to do, it’s a must do for my life. It’s not just about NOT wearing yourself out – physically or emotionally – but also about taking time to nourish yourself as well. I think you need to schedule self-care time into your life.
We all perform maintenance for your cars and gadgets, why not for your own body, mind and soul?
This year I become a mommy and I’m constantly reminded of how important it is to take time for myself. Sure I want to spend time with my cute little boy, but if I’m so worn out and tired, I’m barely engaging as a mom should. Realize that you won’t be able to take care of your loved ones if you aren’t ship shape! I know that I’m also pretty bad company when I’m frustrated and overwhelmed. Grumpy, snippy and just not at 100%. You have to do justice to yourself – don’t live your life as a run-down version of YOU – live at 110%!
Self-care is necessary and brings more good into your life – so it’s totally worth it. Take care of yourself so that you are fully present in whatever you do. You’ll be a happier and healthier person and it literally makes the world a better place. We’ve all experienced it before… because when you take the time to relax, the world is better through your rested eyes.
So when was the last time you scheduled in some necessary self-care time? Manicure, pedicure? Spa day? Quick massage? Ten minutes of meditation? A walk in the park? It can be a big thing, it can be a small thing. Just make sure you do it. Truly enjoy your self-care time and fully immerse yourself in relaxation. Like any other important task in your life – make the time to take care – your body will thank you for it!
My favorite self-care routines? Walks in nature with the family, snuggling up with my honey for a favorite show, drinking iced coffee and doodling. Just to mention a few. What’s are yours?
by Linda | Jun 24, 2013 | my creative journal
For the third week of Make Art That Sells with Lilla Rogers, I created a mock children’s book cover illustration for The Snail and The Rose Tree.
It turned out quite vintage looking to me… but I ran out of time, so it’s not very detailed at all. There are so many little tidbits that can be added to this and I always seem to struggle with the balance of elements. I personally like simplicity, but I second guess myself, wondering if it’s too spare.
People have often told me that my drawing style seems to cater to children’s books, but I’ve always been afraid to approach the industry. It’s intimidating for sure! But I’ve been thinking about how sometimes scary things need to be faced and how sometimes your path is not even close to what you think it would have been. Must be more open to possibility…
by Linda | Jun 17, 2013 | my creative journal
For the second week of Make Art That Sells with Lilla Rogers, we learned all about the home decor market and ended up playing with designing dinnerware. I decided to concentrate on my drawings of succulents and transforming them with splashes of bold color. It was a design that immediately came to mind, I just had to make it happen.
I think there’s really a place for bold hand-drawn lines with bright colors these days – can I call it trendy sophisticated? It was my attempt to try something different – instead of my usual cute factor. I like the results, even though by the end of the week I realized that I’m not a huge fan of designing for the round shape.
More and more I’m realizing that my joy lies in conceptualizing the art to begin with… not necessarily all the layout and details afterwards. I would not be fit to be the manufacturer’s technical designer. LOL! Maybe that means I’m just lazy!
I could pull out the baby card and say that I don’t have time while taking care of a 3 month old – but that’s not really the reason. I just don’t like to tinker because it kills my joy in the end.
I think it’s important to learn what part of the process you enjoy the most, so you can maximize the joyful time and minimize everything else. Makes sense doesn’t it? For everything in life. I believe that striving for that will make the world a better place… and will make you a happier person. I’m so zen today, huh?
As I was playing around, all the designs overlapped looked appealing as well, albeit chaotic. I started to think my designs were too simple. I suppose that I need to achieve a balance that suits me in the end. Still learning, still growing.
Enjoying my time in Lilla’s class and loving her creative wisdom, as well as the entire group of students. Tempted to take the course again in October just because… 🙂
by Linda | Jun 10, 2013 | my creative journal
I’m happy to report that I “made it” through week 1 of Lilla Rogers Make Art That Sells class.
It’s been quite intense with at least one post every weekday, mini exercises and an assignment to complete by the end of the week. I’m filled with inspiration, motiviation and possibility… as well as some initial doubts and fears. There are over 400 students who are super duper talented and amazing. In just one week our group has exploded with fantastic artwork. I was naturally intimidated, but concentrated on creating my own artwork – whatever made me happy – and soon enough I was moving forward on my own creative high.
The experience has already been awesome and I can’t wait for the coming weeks. All my classmates are amazingly supportive – everyone offering great comments and constructive suggestions. You really couldn’t ask for a better group to help you grow! Not to mention, there’s Lilla with all her wisdom and industry information. Creative learning heaven?
One thing that has really blown my mind is Lilla’s talk of icons and basically the process she has shared on how one might approach designing bolt fabric. I love the idea of creating little icons – that’s what I do in my sketchbooks! I love to draw and invent little characters – it just makes me happy. See below, my character filled swatch for the first week about bolt fabric.
I think we often have this misconception that great art just spontaneously combusts into existence in the minds of great artist. When in fact, it’s actually the fruit of very hard work and the routine of letting yourself creatively play.
Suffice to say that I’m happy to have made the investment in taking the class. I also bought Lilla’s book and slowly working through it.
When I filled out the pre-class worksheets, I totally circled this part about the course being the biggest thing in my life right now – at least, after family! Living in Italy and sliding into this culture of slow living has unfortunately pushed me to the borderlands of procrastination at times.
However, now that I’m a mommy, I’ve actually gotten better at managing my time because I have less of it for myself. The estimate of 7+hours a week is nothing if this is really the biggest thing in my life – forget TV and other stuff (laundry?!) – it’s about gathering up all possible time for this one important effort.
I’ve made myself a special journal for the class as well. It’s been so enjoyable to absorb the daily lessons, collaging in my journal and taking notes. It’s learning and creative play wrapped into one!
With all the information my mind is definitely a flurry of ideas. It’s been challenging to actually get everything done on the weekdays, but it gives me time to absorb and marinate ideas. Thankfully, my hubby helps with childcare on the weekends so I have a bit more time to concentrate. By Sunday night I’m totally whipped, but happy at the same time.
It’s like being drunk with creativity. I see the possibility and can’t wait to make art (that sells) – yay! I’m so looking forward to going to class… thank you, Lilla.
by Linda | May 29, 2013 | my creative journal
This week my take action task is all about my website analytics and I’m using Google Analytics to be specific. It’s free and helps me collect data on my website visitors – where are they coming from and what are they doing on my website. Analytics is an extremely powerful indicator of what is working and where you need to focus your marketing energy.
First, you need to be collecting data to make any use of it.
Don’t hesitate to start, even if you don’t have time to dig into the data. It’s just like starting your email list… even if you aren’t ready to send out a newsletter, start collecting those prospects. They will still be there when you are ready!
So the next step in analytics is actually looking into the data and getting useful information out of it all.
Not just to pat yourself on the back (even though you should do that as well). You might be surprised to learn that certain parts of your website are never visited. You might also learn that a certain type of post is driving huge amounts of traffic to your website – are you capturing those folks effectively?
I’m taking time this week to dig into my analytics – even just a little – and figuring out how the information can drive my future marketing efforts.
If you want a getting started guide to Google Analytics I recommend Liz Lockard’s free email course – a great primer! Craftypod also has mini online classes on Google Analytics for Crafters. There are lots of resources out there, so make use of the power in analytics.
Do you have Google Analytics setup on your website? And are you using that information on the regular basis to push your business forward?
