dec '24 favorites
Small things that made my December just a little bit better.
painting
I just finished an art journal I have been working in for the past year. I love completing the final few pages as it feels like closing out a chapter and of course, it is rare that it would line up with the end of the year. You can watch the process video here.
And in case you missed them (and are interested) here are the top three most-watched videos I made in 2024. One, two, and three.
baking
I do not make these Pecan Bars very often but December tends to bring out the excessive and indulgent baker in me. The only recipe change I would suggest is to make 3/4 of the pecan topping which is plenty, trust me on this. Be forewarned that the act of baking leans toward messy to downright havoc-making for the bottom of your oven as the gooey topping boils over the pan edge (Ina recommends putting foil underneath the pan for a reason.) These bars are so good my daughter requested batches of them for her wedding reception. Ina Garten wins again.
Celebrate endings— for they precede new beginnings.
—Jonathan Lockwood Huie
reading
I return to Steven Pressfield’s book The War of Art about once every year or so skimming the pages for tidbits of encouragement. His reminder of how real resistance is when beginning creative endeavors helps me overcome the obstacles that my mind endlessly generates. As Pressfield writes, “Your creative work is a gift to the world.” So my response, “Let’s get started.”
surprising
Last June I got a bee in my bonnet and decided I wanted to run a 5K race. (Now mind you I hadn’t run in over 10 years, maybe 15 nor run a race in over 30) Fast forward 6 months, 2 injuries, and 1 missed 5K later I am now standing at the starting line, texting my sister of my foolishness, reminding her I will be 63 next month. Doubt and dread stir in my stomach.
But honestly, this is not a story about me running a 5K. This is a story about persisting after you falter, continuing when you’re convinced you aren’t good enough, and persevering when you feel you’re too old. Whether you are learning to bake bread, play the piano, or master a new language it’s all about challenging yourself and then taking the steps to follow through. It’s not easy. As my sister reminds me after I ask, “Shouldn’t this be fun?” Her reply, “It might not be fun but it sure is empowering.” Point taken.
That’s me at the far right of the photo nearing the finish line. Can I possibly be entertaining the thought of signing up for another one?
It’s never too late to begin living more courageously.
—Brendan Burchard
following
YouTube: Judy Woods videos are filled with tips and ideas for making abstract art. I have followed her for years.
Pinterest: Ann’s boards are filled with inspiration from food to gardening to poetry and more.
Instagram: Jane Davies makes abstract art look easy.
enjoying
The holiday lights in December are truly magical, wouldn’t you agree? It’s amazing to me how many dazzling displays there are throughout the city. Our family has enjoyed this house for over 25 years, our kids designating it the “Big Whoa!” when they were in grade school. Our local Woodland Park Zoo also puts on a glittering display of lighted animals and insects which we enjoyed with our grandkids.
Let me keep my mind on what matters, which is my work which is mostly standing still and learning to be astonished.
—Mary Oliver
growing
I know, I know this looks like early spring. I am not being deceptive as this arugula is currently thriving in our garden. Crazy, right? I imagine you are thinking, “How in the world can this sunny photo be taken in Seattle at the end of December, no less? Doesn’t it rain every day?” Although it certainly is gray here most days we do get our gratuitous moments of sunlight and obviously the arugula is happy. To grow your own read more here.
merry making
From my family to yours I hope you had a Merry Christmas and are looking forward to a Happy New Year. I would be remiss if I didn’t thank each of you for following along through the years, watching my art videos, and purchasing from my website. It has been a joy sharing my creative journey with you.
On another note, this is the first year we have participated in the matching pajama craze. Like me, you may be curious how a tradition like this got started, if so read here. And even crazier I never would’ve believed my husband would agree to participate. You are witnessing a true Christmas miracle.
Back Row from left: Mikhail, Rick, Pam, Liam (2-1/2), & Chris
Front Row from left: Asia (with Coco), Melanie (baby coming in June), Mackenzie (baby coming in Feb), Adelaide (17 mo), & Blake
In a society that has you counting money, pounds, calories, and steps be a rebel and count your blessings.
—Lisa Heckman
I’m curious, what’s on your list of favorites?
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