Winter has a way of shrinking life down if I let it. Short days. Gray skies. A lot of reasons to stay home. This year, I've noticed the moments that lifted my energy were the ones where I moved, explored go out anyway.
Coming home from the Atlanta Gift Show always leaves my head buzzing in the best way. Being surrounded by new products, evolving trends, and conversations with other artists and product developers who care deeply about what they make helps me see my own work more clearly. It reminds me that creativity is always moving, even when winter feels still.
Not long after, a quick weekend in Chicago added a different kind of inspiration. Walking through the Driehaus Museum, surrounded by color, pattern, and craftsmanship, I felt my brain slow down and light up at the same time. Historic spaces have a way of reminding me that beauty lasts when it’s made with intention.
Closer to home, Winterfest in our little town did something similar. Cold air, bundled neighbors, small moments of joy. Nothing flashy. Just proof that inspiration doesn’t always require a plane ticket or a packed schedule.
This month reminded me that winter doesn’t ask us to hibernate completely. Sometimes the best thing we can do is step outside our routines, even briefly. Visit a museum. Walk through a town event. Say yes to something small. Movement changes perspective, and perspective fuels creativity.
If winter has been feeling especially heavy, consider this a gentle nudge. Get out anyway. Inspiration has a habit of meeting us halfway.
