Hello, Subscriber First Name,

Here were are, entering the last month of the year.

I know I’m not the only one who feels as if this year has flown by. And I won’t dwell on that too long except to say I’m still trying to slow things down. Or at least, take more moments to appreciate the now.

Last weekend our woodland homestead transformed into a winter wonderland. Its beauty reminds me each day to return to gratitude.

To keep looking for beauty.

And creating it, too.

A Survey and a Giveaway

I’ve been dreaming and planning for this coming year and would love to have your help. Take a minute to fill out my end-of-year survey

As a thank you, you’ll be entered into my year end giveaway.

The prizes:

• A full year’s subscription to Skillshare

• A free place in and lifetime access to Develop a Sketchbook Practice

• A free place in and lifetime access to Relight Your Creative Spark

• The set of granulating Holbein watercolor paints I created in this video and a collection of other goodies (this prize is only available for US addresses)

For more chances to win the Skillshare membership see this post.

I will announce the four winners on December 28th.

I am so grateful for your encouragement and support. Whether you take my classes, purchase my art or read my JoyLetter or blog, that you’re here means a lot. Thank you.

A creative prompt:

Look back and look forward

The end of the year is a perfect invitation for reflection. And for dreaming.

Spend a moment thinking (or writing in your journal) about what you’re most grateful for from this year. What accomplishments make you the most proud? They don’t have to be big things, either. Let’s celebrate even the tiniest successes!

Then spend a moment imagining all you want to create in the coming year. What projects (even the tiny ones!) are you most excited to tackle?

Have fun with this.

I’m cheering for you. Just think of all of us dreaming and bringing more beauty into the world. It’s an amazing thought, isn’t it?

Some inspiration:

• Joyce Sidman’s new book of poetry is delightful. And I love the illustrations by Melissa Sweet.

• I can never get enough of stories of dreams come true. This one is especially beautiful and joyful. Keep dreaming your dream, my friend!

• What a wonderful list of good things.

• If this doesn’t get you in the mood for winter coziness, I don’t know what will.

• If winter is hard for you, maybe this point of view might be helpful.

• I’m in full-on houseplant mode right now and this video about houseplant trends was so fun. Gives me lots of ideas.

• How cute are these acorn pouches?

• I was honored to be featured in an article on Women In Arts Network with four other watercolor artists. I’m always intrigued by other artists’ inspirations and practices.

That’s all for today, my friend. Here’s to a beautiful December.

Wishing you joy and sending so much gratitude,

For all my dog loving friends… today is the 5th anniversary of Clara’s adoption day.

She’s been having a rough time lately, but right now with medication she’s doing much better. She reminds me how important it is to savor each day.

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