Welcome! I’m excited to share a new feature where I highlight things that have been bringing happiness and joy into my life lately. My goal is to brighten your day a little bit while inspiring you to explore your own sources of joy and creativity.

This time, I’m diving into a theme that feels especially timely: the power of art and creativity to help us stay grounded, resilient, and connected with ourselves and others. Art offers a way to express, reflect, and find meaning, especially in uncertain times. With the challenges ahead, nurturing our creative side can be a powerful tool for emotional well-being and building supportive connections.

Read on for some uplifting inspiration and ideas to bring more creativity into your life!

Art dates with friends
One of the best ways I've found to bond with a friend is to set up an "art date." I pull out whatever supplies I want to use and set the table to make it look fun and inviting (think candles and flowers—oh my!).

The Artist's Way

If you're struggling to connect with your creative side, you'll love this book!

Upcycled decorations

Decorating for the holidays is something I've always wanted to be better at, but never had the right motivation (or the desire to spend all that money on something that's displayed for such a short time!). I'm a big fan of eco-decor because you get to be crafty and save money. Last year, I used trimmings from my yard to make a wreath, and it was delightful. I also saw a tutorial on YouTube about turning tomato paste cans into décor, and I don't think I've ever been the same!

@inspiredtowrite

This Instagram account is one of my favorites. Following it feels like getting a little microdose of Artist's Way inspiration every time I look at my feed.

A dang good notebook

A notebook that you actually enjoy writing in is a wonderful thing! My favorites are these random ones I found on Amazon (I love the blank cover because I can decorate it however I want!).

Style File: The Quirky 90s Art Teacher but Make it Fall

I’ve always been drawn to the idea of dressing like that quintessentially kooky art teacher from the 90s—the one who always had paint on her overalls, a stack of colorful bangles, and a closet full of wild patterns and textures.

Roast Pork with Apples and Rosemary

Ingredients:

1-2 lbs pork tenderloin
Baker’s twine
1-2 apples (preferably green, as they bake well)
1 sprig of rosemary, leaves removed from stem
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper
5-6 garlic cloves, chopped
Cast iron skillet

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Begin by butterflying the pork tenderloin (check out this tutorial if you need a guide).
Dice the apple(s) into small cubes and mix them with the rosemary leaves, olive oil, a pinch of salt, pepper, and the chopped garlic.
Spread about half of this apple mixture over the butterflied pork. Carefully fold the pork back together and secure it with baker’s twine.
Rub the exterior of the pork with additional salt, pepper, and a bit of olive oil.
In a cast iron skillet, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on both sides until golden brown.
Add the remaining apple mixture to the skillet, spreading it around the pork.
Ensure there’s enough olive oil in the pan to keep the pork tender and juicy, especially around the outer edges.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for about 20 minutes. Check the internal temperature with a thermometer; the pork should reach 145°F (63°C) for optimal doneness. Let it rest a few minutes before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious roast! This recipe is perfect for a Autumnal cozy, savory-sweet dinner.

As a neurodivergent, I've had to adapt my workspace to fit my needs. Whether you are neurodivergent or need some help staying on track in a world filled with distractions, these office hacks might help you as much as they’ve helped me! Here are three of my favorite office tools that help keep me grounded, focused, and productive in my workspace.

1. Timed Phone Lock Box
We all know how much of a distraction our phones can be, especially when we’re trying to get into a flow state. I found that using a timed phone lock box has been a game-changer. You simply place your phone inside, set a timer, and it locks until the time is up. This prevents mindless scrolling, and I can concentrate on my tasks without the constant temptation of notifications. For me, it's all about having that physical barrier, which gives my brain the break it needs to stay focused. It’s a must-have tool for anyone who struggles with self-control when it comes to their devices.

2. Vibe Board

If you’re a visual thinker like I am, having a vibe board (aka a corkboard) in your workspace can be incredibly helpful. I use mine as a visual stim tool where I can pin images, quotes, sketches, or whatever inspires me at the moment. Having a designated space to engage in visual stimming helps calm my mind while keeping my creativity flowing. It also gives me something to focus on during breaks, helping me reset my brain between tasks.

3. ADHD-Friendly Chair

Traditional office chairs never worked for me—they’re either too stiff, uncomfortable, or just plain boring. After some trial and error, I discovered an ADHD-friendly chair that offers both comfort and movement.

Making Art in Times of Distress