A retrospective reflection written in October 2026 · Looking back at fall 2025
For a long time, art was something I loved but didn't always make room for. My work in the nonprofit world has been meaningful and often emotionally demanding. Painting gave me a place to quiet my mind and spend time doing something simply because I loved it.
When I look back at fall 2025, I see a period of change. I was beginning to think differently about the time and space I wanted to give my creativity. I didn't have a website launch or a business plan in mind. I wanted to make things again.
I believe creative talent is a gift from God and that gifts are meant to be shared. For years, though, I was better at making art than showing it to anyone. I had paintings tucked away, ideas waiting and materials I wanted to explore.
This journal is part of changing that. I'm writing about the journey from where I stand now, not pretending I had all the answers a year ago. I still don't. But making room for art feels like a very good place to begin.
The people closest to me have been a huge part of this shift. My boyfriend has encouraged me to spend time on the things that make me happy, including painting and experimenting in my studio. My kids have encouraged me, too. Sometimes it takes people who know you well to remind you that the creative part of you deserves attention.
I'm particularly drawn to abstract art because I don't have to begin with a perfect picture in my head. I can follow the colors, make a change, walk away, and come back with a fresh perspective. That's the freedom I wanted to find again.
My friends have been incredibly supportive, too. Between their encouragement, my boyfriend cheering me on and my kids reminding me how much I love this, I feel more willing to show what I'm working on instead of keeping it all to myself.
— Jaime