July Thunder Moon
Life lately in tune with the monthly full moon cycle.
June Honey Moon – July Thunder Moon
Hello! The July Thunder Moon is the 13th and final post in Full Moon Monthly, a blog series that recaps life lately and what's on the horizon. The July moon is also known as the Buck Moon because it's when the buck's antlers are in full growth. I like to call it the Thunder Moon because of the thunderstorms that happen often this month (I even hosted a July Thunder Moon party for our friends a few years back). Nothing like a Summer thunderstorm to relax you (source).Since the June Honey Moon there's been vacations, reading, visiting, & rebranding! A very full month, that's for sure.
July Thunder Moon
Summer 10x10 Challenge
My 3rd 10x10 wardrobe challenge will be on FRIDAY JULY 27. I'm excited because I'm the laziest with summer style. If it's lightweight and non-fussy that's all I want so we'll see how it goes. I've put a private Instagram group together this time around to encourage & support one another. A lot of people want to do the challenge without the pressure of posting daily outfits so I'm optimistic this will keep the challenge fun & lighthearted for us. Join us here. I'll post my daily outfits here as I have with previous challenges.
My 28th birthday
Ahh, another rotation around the Sun. Thank you for it, God. My birthday is August 12th but I start celebrating the first day of August. Everyone around me hates it but I can't get enough. I don't have plans yet but the Perseids Meteor Shower peaks every year on my birthday and I haven't seen it in years. The comet Swift-Tuttle produces up to 60 meteors per hour (1 meteor/minute!) so hopefully, I'll watch them this year!
GVSU Adjunct Professor in the Fall
I've gotten the opportunity to be a design professor at Grand Valley this Fall semester and I CAN.NOT.WAIT. It's on my favorite design topic too; print design! Such an underrated niche in the design world. I'm excited to teach and share what I've learned from being a designer for 10 years. Here's to new school supplies!
Emily Bode new site
Woowee, what an undertaking! 5 years of posts hold so many wonderful memories from moving to a little lake town, buying our first home, getting married, moving to the city, changing careers a couple of times (greenhouse, freelance, in-house designer), back to the little lake town, and everything in between. But I'm writing this last post on my new EMILYBODE.COM site & I'm so excited to share more about why I made the switch soon & how things will be a little different around here. I'm most excited to offer a monthly newsletter of inspiration & intention for writers, designers, & creatives like you.
June Honey Moon
4th of July Vacation
We didn't do the 5K race as planned. We stayed up too late the night before but did our own little 5K on the country roads instead. It was honestly harder than the race would've been. haha. Our 4th was PACKED visiting friends & family we hadn't seen in awhile. It was so good to catch up with everyone. We basically bopped around from one lake cottage to the next. The last day we celebrated our friend getting married. He was the Pastor who married us. It was beautiful to see him happy with his Bride.
My staycation
After the 4th I took a mini-vacation of my own. I gained a new perspective on what a career means to me and had a lot of rest & relaxation. I enjoyed antiquing, a glass of rosé with lunch overlooking the channel, and ultimately seeing the lake town I live in through a vacationer's eyes. No wonder people travel here for the summer, it's gorgeous!
A day in Kalamazoo
One of my vacation days I went to Kalamazoo with Joel. I explored downtown while he had a few meetings (thanks to all your recommendations!) and then we met for a drink at Bell's Brewery. After we went to a Growlers baseball game and caught up with our friend who works there & his wife. It was a late drive home but worth it to catch up with good friends we don't see as often as we'd like.
My favorite Kalamazoo spots: Water Street Coffee Joint / Curate & Co. / Bell's Brewery
Screened-in porch updated
I FINALLY cleaned out our screened-in porch. It became a catch-all when we moved back this Spring. It needed a good spruce up. I have a grander vision for this space that includes new porch furniture, a large rug, & a fresh coat of paint but I'm happy we had odds & ends leftover from our wedding & past rental for places to sit & eat. I didn't think I was quite so 70's vibes but I guess I am right now. More thoughts on home.
Catching up with friends
Our friends from Morocco stopped for a visit! It was so good to catch up with them & meet their little one. He was so cute & laidback, much like his parents. ;) If there was a theme to this past month it would be spending time together with friends & family we think about all the time but don't see often. It filled my soul & made me grateful over & over for the good people in our Life.
There are 13 full moons each year. I started this full moon lettering project last August 2017. You can see all 13 moons here or listed below:
August Sturgeon Moon
September Corn Moon
October Harvest Moon
November Frost Moon
December Cold Moon
January Wolf Moon
January Blue Moon
March Crow Moon
March Blue Moon
April Pink Moon
May Flower Moon
June Honey Moon
July Thunder Moon
Full Moon Monthly recaps life lately and what’s on the horizon. See all moons here.
June Honey Moon
Life lately in tune with the monthly full moon cycle.
May Flower Moon – June Honey Moon
Hello! The June Honey Moon is the 12th post in Full Moon Monthly, a series that recaps life lately and what's on the horizon. The more popular name for June is the STRAWBERRY MOON because it's a signal to start gathering ripening fruit like strawberries. I went with the HONEY MOON instead because it's fewer letters to sketch & it makes me think of my friend & her husband who share their honey with us from the bees they keep. It's so delicious! (source).Since the May Flower Moon there's been a lot of reading, researching, & rebranding! A very full month, that's for sure.
June Honey Moon
4th of July Up North
AKA The Greatest Fourth in the North. We've gone up to my in-laws’ cottage for the last 8 years! Every year is different but it's always filled with the annual family reunion, 4th of July race, and time on the water. I'm looking forward to stepping away from our house projects for a few days. I'm also running a 5K thanks to Megan & Amber who've inspired me to kick it into gear with more workouts. It always makes me feel better. Here's to hoping I finish this year. Tiger wins like every year, obviously.
House Projects
Speaking of house projects, we're still chipping away. We need to make updates here & there to make it more beach cottage-y. We live 2 blocks from the lake so all the nautical, beachy, Michigan vibes are really inspiring me. This month we're installing ceiling fans (I'm incredibly picky on choosing fans but Hunter brand all the way) & putting together the guest room with bedding & curtains. Eventually, we're getting to our screened porch, the bathroom, & landscaping next year.
Spring cleaning / Fall decor inspiration / All Moon Lodge posts
Growlers Game
Headed to a Growlers Game this month! We went around this time last year & had a blast. Our friend works there & it's always fun to catch up with him & his wife since we don't see them much. I love watching baseball in the summer. It's THEE SLOWEST game next to golf to me but a midsummer ball game is the epitome of summer to me. "Take me out to the ball game" at the 7th inning stretch brings me back to ball games I went to with my family when I was younger & makes me nostalgic. Can't wait!
Creative Grace Newsletter
I'm rebranding the blog! Basically, I'm shifting the look & how I share my writing with you. Because it's 5 years worth of posts, it's quite the overhaul of my online space. I'm taking advantage of this slower season to tackle what I've been wanting to do for a couple years now. I explain more about it here in my BLOG HIGHLIGHTS and will have a couple posts on the new site about why I'm doing this. It's essentially going to make it WAY easier for you to find the topics you want to read, HOW you prefer to read them, & more behind the scenes of my work as I go. There will also be a monthly newsletter where I'll send my top posts, people, products, & books/music I'm loving & who are inspiring me that month.
Sign up here if you're in, first one will reach you in August.
May Flower Moon
Beach Volleyball team
2-1 so far, whoop whoop! We jokingly say we're in the B League, AKA Beer League. It's been so much fun & something I look forward to every week. I called the court a field yesterday if that gives you any indication of my skill level. I also spiked it at an opponent’s face when we already won & were just playing the third game for fun. So yeah, I'm kind of an amateur asshole right now but maybe I'll get better as we go.
Shibori Dyeing with Mom
It went well except I got the wrong die so our patterns ended up being in a deep almost purple-blue. My mom brought avocado pits though because she heard avocados create a pink blush dye. Those worked out best! We left them in the dye overnight and really happy with the results. I'm going to try it again with this DIY post by The Fresh Exchange. At this point, I'm more tempted to just get these shibori pillows at Target. I love the IDEA of creating these by hand but I got super irritable in the middle of it because it wasn't going perfectly. I was so cranky, my poor mom. haha.
DIY coasters / DIY Lemon Honey face wash / Bluesy-inspired moodboard
Image by Leigh Ann Cobb Photography
Community Over Competition with Currently Kherington
Kherington & I's photoshoot with Leigh Ann was SO MUCH FUN! It ended up being a beautiful night. We both had a completely different plan of what we were going to wear for it & then each of us had something weird happen with our planned outfits before the shoot. We both showed up wearing a fun summer top & wide flares with heels. We also discovered we do the same thing when we're stressed & I couldn't believe it! She'll be sharing that & more from our conversation about what community means to us on a new blog series she'll have next month! You'll be seeing a lot more pics from this shoot coming up from me too.
Joon + Co Capsule Wardrobe Photoshoot
I got photos back from a shoot I did for Joon + Co with a fellow freelancer, Natalie Hawkins. They're so bright, simple, & classic for Joon + Co's upcoming Capsule collection! We had such a great day shooting at The Rockford Wedding Studio with Lisa Hammond and Joon + Co-founder, Becky Vandenbout. I feel like a broken record when I talk about Becky and her amazing vision but it's so good, so true, & she works her ass off bringing sustainable items & fabric/fashion education to West Michigan. More from this shoot coming up too!
Joon + Co shop / High waisted pants for Fall / Loungewear for working at home
Jack Johnson Concert
We took a road trip to see Jack Johnson live with friends! Our wedding song was What You Thought You Need so Jack's close to our heart. His lyrics speak to me always at the right time. It brought me back to high school days when I'd play Banana Pancakes & Better Together in my old Buick on the way to school. I DM'ed him before the concert hoping to pull on his heartstrings to play Joel & I's wedding song...it didn't work & he didn't play it but it was so great to catch up with friends & listen to live music on a summer night.
A letter to my husband / Our Harvest Moon wedding / My bachelorette party
New Kayak!
See that mint-green beauty?! That's my new kayak. The same color as my favorite ice cream. I've been wanting a kayak for a long time to go with Joel but have been so picky about the color of the kayak that I never got one. Finally, I found this one at Meijer and am LOVING it! We've gone on the water with it twice & hoping for more sunny days on the water this summer.
Full Moon Monthly recaps life lately and what’s on the horizon. See all moons here.
May Flower Moon
Life lately in tune with the monthly full moon cycle.
April Pink Moon – May Flower Moon
Hello! The May Flower Moon is the 11th post in Full Moon Monthly, a blog series that recaps life lately and what's on the horizon. The May full moon is also known as the Mother's Moon or Milk Moon and is a time of increased fertility which is definitely apparent with all the trees & flowers in full bloom and the creatures bearing little ones in this warmer weather. There's a bit of folklore with the May Flower Moon that it's an ideal time to accept a marriage proposal! (source). Since the April Pink Moon, there's been a lot of visiting with family, exciting projects, and prepping for the Summer season.
May Flower Moon
Memorial Weekend Clean-up
This weekend we took a break from our usual Up North hangs to get some work done on The Moon Lodge. After a year away she's in heavy need of cleaning! I've been going through old boxes in the basement and stumbled upon an old project. I wrote a lyric in different lettering styles each day for a month. It's been magical to see old things in a new light and I'm excited for fun changes to The Moon Lodge this summer!
Related: The Moon Lodge
Reading on the beach
I've been trying to be more intentional in taking breaks when I need them. It's a schedule and mindset shift for sure as I often choose work instead of rest. Light beach reads have been on rotation & I don't see that stopping any time soon. Any book recommendations for the beach?!
New Brave Girl Assistant
With my business, this blog, and now the print shop, I've added a new person to the team to divide & conquer. She's my first hire, local & has already added more growth, energy, & momentum to Brave Girl in the last 2 weeks than I could've ever imagined. I'm so excited for what's next & to continue working with her to provide our design clients with the help & style they're seeking. More details soon!
Beach Volleyball team
Joel & I signed up to play beach volleyball with my brother and a few of our friends this summer. I played years ago so I'm excited to start it back up again and play right by Lake Michigan every week.
Image via Apartment Therapy
Shibori Dyeing w/ Mom
My Mom and I had the same idea to have indigo-colored throw pillows for our living rooms this summer without even knowing it. After we discovered it over the phone one day we've decided to make our own. She used to have my brother & I tye-dye all the time growing up so we have a good start already. Shibori is a Japanese dyeing technique that involves folding & twisting the fabric, then dyeing it in indigo. Working from this DIY post, we'll see how it goes!
April Pink Moon
Health & Wellness as priority
It's the first time in a while I've been intentional with my wellness. There are so many health facts now it's easy to feel like you're not doing ANYTHING right. I've started with VERY SMALL steps & I'm not trying to shift everything ever really. I like salt too much. Just listening to what my body needs at the moment. In the last month, that means an Acai bowl for breakfast, 3 meals/day, running or walking a few times a week, & shutting down work to play more often.
Related: Self-care for creatives
Joel's 25K race
Joel did AMAZING at the Riverbank Run 25K in Grand Rapids last month. He ended up finishing in a 1:43 which is about 6:40/mile pace! A personal record for him and he didn't even look like he was struggling near the finish line. He took a well-deserved nap on the ride home after we had a celebratory beer with my brother and sister-in-law who ran the 10K that day.
Lettering for a Saugatuck wedding
I did the lettering for a Heyday Lab wedding that I absolutely adored. Jamie's vision for weddings & events amazes me so I was honored to be part of her team to make the signage for the event. It was all white lettering on clear acrylic with green foliage and champagne gold touches – so dreamy & romantic for an outdoor wedding at the beginning of the season. Check my highlights for more.
Mother's Day with Momma Moon
I spent an entire day with my Mom a few days before Mother's Day and was so grateful for our time together. We don't live close so it's always special & important to us. I also visited my mother-in-law after not seeing her for a while. It made me so happy to see both of my Mothers and celebrate them for all they've done for both me & Joel – before we met & now that we're a family of our own. The power of Love & the Women who raise us continues to amaze me.
Capsule Wardrobe photoshoot with Joon+Co
I did another photoshoot with Joon+Co for their Summer Capsule Collection with Natalie, a fellow freelance designer & marketer in town. Lisa Hammond photographed us at the Rockford Wedding Studio, a new wedding + event space she recently opened. I'm excited to share more of the sustainable & conscious pieces that J+C founder, Becky, styled for us. I've been getting a lot of questions about how to start a capsule wardrobe & how I do mine. I'll have a post here soon that details it all out for you. In the meantime see my capsule wardrobe posts here.
Full Moon Monthly recaps life lately and what’s on the horizon. See all moons here.
April Pink Moon
Life lately in tune with the monthly full moon cycle.
March Blue Moon – April Pink Moon
Hello! The April Pink Moon is the 10th post in Full Moon Monthly, a blog series that recaps life lately and what's on the horizon. This month's moon is called the Pink Moon to represent moss pink, a low evergreen mat that sprouts bright flowers signaling the Spring season (source). I started seeing little moss pink blooms on the trail this week! Since the March Blue Moon, there's been a lot of travel, a wardrobe challenge, and a big move.
April Pink Moon
Health & Wellness as priority
Last month was full of travel and a lot of change. It's taken a toll on my health so I'm looking forward to a more chill April for rest and reset. Joel and I are attempting MEAL PLANNING. Any tips? I'm not following the point of it but I know the need for a balanced diet is important. I've also joined Tea with Ditea group for an open forum on good-for-you food and female health topics.
Related: Self-care for creatives
Joel's 25K race
Joel's been training all winter for the Riverbank Run 25K in Grand Rapids. He's kicking butt despite what it looks like. He's done this race a handful of times but this particular one he's averaging 6:55/mile. Crazy, right?! I'm so proud of him and excited to cheer him on! Tiger & I's race day tradition is to sleep in, grab a coffee, and catch him near the finish line.
"The Journey of Freelance" at Ladies Wine & Design
I'll be on a Q&A panel chatting about my journey as a freelance designer at the Ladies Wine & Design event this month. Although it seems remote &/or freelance careers are commonplace in many parts of the country it's still a bit uncommon in Michigan. I'm excited to share my experience and maybe debunk some myths about freelance. GR friends, event ticket here.
March Blue Moon
Spring 10x10 Complete
My second wardrobe challenge is now complete! Biggest takeaway? I need to refresh my spring & summer wardrobe. My whites are looking tired and my style is changing again. How to do that while balancing a smaller carbon footprint and conscious consumerism? Well, I'll let you know when I find a good happy medium.
Related: 10x10 Challenges
Chicago for one of my best friends' wedding
The last few months have been full of wedding celebrations for one of my best friends since high school. The grand finale was their gorgeous wedding in Chicago! There were definitely April showers but we had a great time, tears of joy, and I'm still amazed at all the beautiful details my friend thought of from start to finish for their big day.
Nashville Part Deux
We took an impromptu trip to Nashville last weekend. It was the perfect bit of sunshine and live music to lift our spirits after the long Winter. Even though I was sick for most of it I still had a great time with our friends exploring the city.
Our favorites off the beaten path:
bartaco for tacos, guac, & margaritas
Emerson Grace for shopping
Bourbon Street Blues for the best music we heard all weekend!
Back to the Moon Lodge
And finally the greatest change of all this last month – we moved back to the Moon Lodge! It's pretty crazy to look back on this last month and everything that's happened. It's definitely shifted a lot for me both inside and out and I'm excited about where it may lead.
Related: Moon Lodge posts
Full Moon Monthly recaps life lately and what’s on the horizon. See all moons here.
March Blue Moon
Life lately in tune with the monthly full moon cycle.
March Crow Moon – March Blue Moon
Hello! The March Blue Moon is the 9th post in Full Moon Monthly, a blog series that recaps life lately and what's on the horizon. This is the second full moon in March. It’s a rare occurrence to have two full moons in one month which is why it’s called a Blue Moon. Even rarer is January had a blue moon too! 2 blue moons in 3 months, CRAZY. It won't happen again until 2037. I'll be 46! (source).
Since the Crow Moon at the beginning of the month, there have been some fun photoshoots, a road trip with girlfriends, and growing my print shop.
March Blue Moon
Bella Grace Magazine Feature
One of my stories We're All Hustling and my Instagram is featured in Bella Grace magazine, Issue 15! Read more about why it feels so special to me [HERE].
Related: Brave Girl Top 100 Women Blogs / I'm Late, Keep Going
Spring 10x10
It's here! Remember the Winter 10x10 I did this winter? Lee and Caroline are co-hosting another 10x10 challenge for the spring that started yesterday, March 30! This season is extra special because designer Elizabeth Suzann will be participating and doing a few giveaways throughout the 10 days. See my 10 pieces and more details on how to join [HERE]. It's definitely not too late to join.
Related: My 10 capsule items / Winter 10x10 recap / My capsule wardrobe
Ferris Design Portfolio Review
Every year the design program I graduated from hosts a portfolio review where the Seniors share their final projects. The picture above is my class's review 5 years ago! This month I'll be reviewing some portfolios. It's fun to hear the students speak about their work. They don't realize how far they've come or how great they are because it's EXHAUSTING prepping for this thing but they're amazing & inspirational!
Related: Creative Business Chats
March Crow Moon
Joon + Co Spring Photoshoot
A Friday afternoon with Ashley and Becky shooting Joon+Co looks in my apartment is a Friday well spent! Ashley is such a talented photographer and Becky's eye & knowledge for sustainable fashion is a true gift. It was so reenergizing to have a casual workday with girl talk and belly laughter. I'm excited to show you more photos from the shoot!
International Women's Day 2018
Celebrated International Women's Day with a little photoshoot atop a parking garage with some Grand Rapids creatives. More about why we did it before getting kicked out! [HERE].
Nashville for Dre's bachelorette
I went to Nashville for one of my best friend's Bachelorette party’s! We ate and drank our way through the city and stayed in the cutest Airbnb in East Nashville. I will definitely be going back! I loved all the live music and the overall vibes there.
Brave Girl Print Shop: Summer 2018
Thanks to everyone who participated in my print shop Instagram survey last month. I have a lot of new prints in the works since last Summer and have taken your requests on how to improve the buying experience for you. I love the tangibility of art prints and I'm excited to get them in my shop and onto your walls next season! More to come with this for sure.
Full Moon Monthly recaps life lately and what’s on the horizon. See all moons here.
March Crow Moon
Life lately in tune with the monthly full moon cycle.
January Blue Moon – March Crow Moon
Hello! The March Crow Moon is the 8th post in Full Moon Monthly, a blog series that recaps life lately and what's on the horizon. The March moon is also considered the Worm Moon because it's when the ground becomes soft enough for worms. It's the last moon of winter when crows are cawing their farewells to winter and welcoming Spring soon. Hallelujah! (source). Since the Blue Moon at the end of January, it was a pretty rough February so I'm very happy to say good riddance & hear the crows again.
March Crow Moon
Joon + Co Photoshoot
We had a photoshoot today for Joon + Co's upcoming Spring collection. Ashley of Sincerely Ashley shot the looks and Becky (Joon + Co's founder) styled them. I've been in a rut since my winter 10x10 but these pieces have me inspired for Spring. Hanging out with these talented and full-hearted ladies was so much fun and makes me appreciate our creative community so much. I'm excited to share more soon!
Related: My Capsule Wardrobe
New Brave Girl Prints
New prints coming to the shop for Spring! I'm excited to keep growing the collection. One of my friends suggested selling a PDF of my prints so you can easily download & print quotes from your own home. I think it's a great idea! What do you think? Would you buy prints like this in my Etsy shop?
Related: Print shop
Weekly Lettering challenge with Lauren Hom
Some large winter projects have wrapped up so I'm excited to continue my weekly lettering challenge this month. I'm trying not to put too much pressure on myself and just going at my own pace since it's a personal project. I'm hoping to do more watercolor with the weekly prompts as I'm really loving the looseness of the medium.
Nashville for one of my best friend's
I'm so excited to be going to Nashville at the end of the month for one of my best friend’s bachelorette party! She knows nothing of what we have planned but I think she's going to LOVE it. I've never been there but have heard great things. Any recommendations?!
January Blue Moon
Self-Care Love with Lexi of In The Hutch
I initially planned to have 4 weeks of self-care tips for you by this moon because February is a hard month. But plans changed when I had the flu for a week! Pretty sure that was my body saying you need to do the things you're encouraging others to do. Thanks, Universe. Message received. Taking a break is my next one, completely inspired by the reminder the flu gave me; slow it down, chica.
Related: #iamlovingme on Instagram
Mardi Gras with a zydeco band
I went to my hometown for my friend's bridal shower at the end of my flu. It was supposed to be a quick stop for the day. But there was a beer release at the bar in town, then a zydeco band started setting up, and suddenly I had on a Mardi Gras mask and kept collecting beads! My parents are very fun people. After a pretty heavy & hard month for all of us, some blues music and lots of laughter with my people were the ultimate cure. These things have always been healing. Grateful to have had the reminder. Laissez les bons temps rouler, friends.
Related: Blues restaurant in Frankenmuth, MI
Freelance Design Chat at GVSU student group
Chatting freelance design with the AIGA GVSU group was awesome. Joel came with me and offered tax & job advice to the students. It's hard to describe how happy & whole it made me be speaking about freelance design with my husband. I don't do this alone, that's for sure, and I'm so grateful to have had a platform where we could both share our experience with my business to students. I'd love to do more speaking events like this in the future.
Related: Creative Business Chats
Voted Top 100 Women Blogs to Follow
I was voted Top 100 Women Blogs to Follow by Feedspot! It's definitely an accomplishment I'm so grateful for and has me reflecting on the last 4.5 years on this blog of mine. So much has changed since I first started and it's really beautiful to reminisce on the unfolding. Even the hard stuff feels a little dreamy after something like this. I wrote more about it [here].
Full Moon Monthly recaps life lately and what’s on the horizon. See all moons here.
January Blue Moon
Life lately in tune with the monthly full moon cycle.
January Wolf Moon – January Blue Moon
Hello! The January Blue Moon is the 7th post in Full Moon Monthly, a blog series that recaps life lately and what's on the horizon. This is the 2nd full moon in January. It's a rare occurrence to have 2 full moons in 1 month which is why it's called a Blue Moon. Ever heard the phrase, "That only happens once in a blue moon?" This is where it comes from (source). Since the Wolf Moon at the beginning of the month, there's been a good mix of rest and planning for some fun projects and events ahead.
January Blue Moon
Self-Care Love with Lexi of In The Hutch
This month I'm joining up with Lexi of In The Hutch and some amazing bloggers and creatives to share weekly acts of self-care. I'll be sharing weekly tidbits using the #iamlovingme hashtag on Instagram so be sure to follow [here]! I encourage you to join us this month by sharing a weekly photo or video story of what you're doing for YOU that day or week. The best part? Showing up together to share our stories. Caring within strengthens how we care outwardly and being able to do that with a group of women by your side cheering you on? LOVE LOVE all around.
Related: 5 Tips for Winter Self-Care / Boxed by Bare gift boxes
Local Lady Collaboration for Slow Fashion
Are you sensing a theme to my month yet? Lotta Lady Love! A fun collaboration for Dazey LA, a slow fashion brand based out of LA, whose mission for the fashion industry I wholeheartedly believe in. This graphic tee is part of my Spring Capsule Wardrobe and I'm working with a few amazing women in town to share this outfit, what it represents, and more this month!
Related: Winter Capsule Wardrobe
Freelance Design Chat at GVSU student group
I'm doing another chat this month with GVSU students. I did a similar talk last November and I'm looking forward to meeting up again to chat about my experience as a freelance designer and talk about the rates and reality of freelancing. Sometimes I think freelancing gets romanticized. I like to be upfront about it and often walk away with great insights and questions.
Related: Creative Business Chats
January Wolf Moon
Co-Works at Coffee Shops
I got out for a couple of events and co-working with currently Kherington and Sincerely Ashley last month. When I worked in an office I remember thinking working from home was a luxury. Now I think there needs to be a balance of solitude and community because you'll drive yourself nuts just sitting alone at the computer all day! We're all hustling for the life we want to live, so why not hustle together?
Related: Creative Business Chats
10x10 Outfit Challenge
I did a 10x10 outfit challenge and I learned SO MUCH from participating in it. 10 clothing items for 10 days in a row. It was a great experiment to do in lieu of sharing more of my capsule wardrobe here. It lifted my spirits and kept me looking forward to something each day which is difficult for me during these dark winter months. I'll be doing an overall recap of it this weekend.
Related: My capsule wardrobe
Business Goals
You should see my desk and notebooks right now. The first couple of weeks I tried taking it easy but then found myself signing up for ALL THE THINGS. A weekly lettering challenge, outfit challenge, Jenna Kutcher's email list workshop, and joining some groups with other bloggers and designers. When I'm deep in a project I become a hermit to complete the work and get it the way I want it. So I took advantage of the slower pace to better clarify WHY I started Brave Girl and what I'm trying to do here (more on that soon). The groups I joined and the projects feel REALLY GOOD. The workload has since picked up and it's been an amazing feeling to work with more purpose and continue to practice my craft.
Full Moon Monthly recaps life lately and what’s on the horizon. See all moons here.
January Wolf Moon
Life lately in tune with the monthly full moon cycle.
December Cold Moon – January Wolf Moon
Hello! The January Wolf Moon is the 6th post in Full Moon Monthly, a blog series that recaps life lately and what's on the horizon. The Wolf Moon is on January 1st, what a great way to start the new year! Called the Wolf Moon because it's the time of year when wolves would howl in hunger outside the villages (source). It's the first of 2 full moons this month meaning the next one is a Blue Moon! More on what that means at the end of January. The Astro Twins have 6 Ways to Dive Into the Divine Feminine during this full moon that's too good not to share, as well. Since the Cold Moon last month, there's been a lot of holiday festivities, sunshine, and hibernation.
January Wolf Moon
New Year's Day
So far it's been really calm. Joel & Tiger went to play video games with my brother, their annual post-holiday event, and I'm doing not a thing. Robe all day, movies on repeat, shitty food, and some online shopping is the plan for me. Hot cocoa mugs are still out from last night (scroll down for NYE) so I'll probably warm up with that too!
Business Goals
January isn't a power month for me so I'm looking forward to getting back into things slowly. I'm looking forward to brainstorming, sketching, and filling out my 2018 Desire Planner this month. I needed the break that December provided to really wrap my head around where Brave Girl needs to go next and the improvements I want to make with my prints and freelance work. I met my 2017 4th quarter goals which I was really happy about! I'm excited to set more measurable goals for this year.
Hygge Living
You may have heard the term hygge (pronounced hue-gah) flying around lately which is basically a term for enjoying the slower pace of the winter season. It's a Danish word used when acknowledging a feeling or moment as cozy and charming. It doesn't require major lifestyle changes or purchasing anything but rather sinking into the warmth and coziness that we're blessed to have during these freezing winter days in the North. It's what I plan to do this month – lots of reading by firelight, TV shows by candlelight, sleep, and eating rooted and green foods with lots of hot lemon water.
December Cold Moon
Anthropologie Holiday Fashion Show
So, bad news. I didn't end up doing the Holiday Fashion Show! I accidentally double-booked with Joel's work Christmas party which was on the same exact day. Either way, I heard it was a GREAT event and hope I can do it next year. My friend Tieka of Selective Potential shared her experience walking the runway and LOVE the jumper she wore.
Christmas Cookie Decorating
I decorated the cookies, Joel ate them. It was fun spending a Saturday afternoon with family decorating sugar and gingerbread cookies to Christmas music and laughter. I went the neutral route (of course) with my cookies and pretty much hoarded the white icing.
Holiday Postcards via Moo
We FINALLY sent out Holiday cards this year! I've been wanting to do it for years. I used a photo of us in front of the Moon Lodge that Leigh Ann took with our wedding typeface and got postcards printed at Moo. Joel and I wrote notes on the back while watching Hallmark Christmas movies and drinking eggnog. I also organized our address book that I keep updated on Airtable which made my Type A self very happy. My version of a GOOD TIME!
Resources: Moo Printing/ Airtable/ Adobe Creative Cloud
Florida for Christmas
We spent half of December in Ft. Myer's Beach and Cape Coral. While it was much needed R&R from the cold, it was also a test in working remotely for me. I've done a few trips in the last couple of months to work away from my tiny apartment desk and it went really well! I checked in with clients during set times of the day and logged off for biking to the beach and grabbing margaritas at sunset. I eventually logged off entirely at the end of the week because it was a set vacation after all. We watched dolphins each morning from this view of Pelican Bay and eventually met up with Joel's side of our family for Christmas break poolside in a gorgeous vacation home!
NYE 2018
This NYE was the most chill we've had maybe ever. 2017 was challenging for us with moving to the city, new jobs, my cat Belle of 18 years passing away, and wondering what's next for us. We celebrated with a couple of close friends around the kitchen island, snacking and reflecting on the last year and what we're looking forward to in 2018. I forgot to take a picture of all of us so we snapped one quick before falling asleep.
Full Moon Monthly recaps life lately and what’s on the horizon. See all moons here.
December Cold Moon
Life lately in tune with the monthly full moon cycle.
November Frost Moon – December Cold Moon
Hello! The December Cold Moon is the 5th post in Full Moon Monthly, a series on Brave Girl that recaps life lately and what's on the horizon. The Cold Moon is also known as the Long Nights Moon because it's close to the Winter Solstice, the day with the least amount of daylight (source). This month's moon is unique because it's the only Supermoon of 2017! Meaning you'll notice it's brighter and bigger because it's closer to the Earth than the other moons have been this year. Since the Frost Moon last month, there's been a lot of travel and visiting with friends and family.
December Cold Moon
Anthropologie Holiday Fashion Show
I'm laughing because I'm nervous as shit, and excited, to be a model at the Anthropologie Holiday Fashion Show this month. Gah! Part of me knows I'll enjoy it (thanks to friends like Ashley and Kristin telling me I actually can!). The other part of me needs to start walking in heels every day. ALL DAY. leading up to the event.
Related posts: My Capsule Wardrobe / Anthropologie Office Style
Christmas Cookie Decorating
I'm really excited to spend some time with my mother-in-law and family decorating cookies this month. For some reason, I've never gone in the last 8 years being with Joel. I think it'll be a Saturday well spent. I love all the festive, traditional things this time of year and I'm excited to add one to my list!
Florida for Christmas
Probably why I'm trying to squeeze in all the festive things like decorating cookies, Hallmark Christmas movies, egg nog, and everything else because we'll be in Florida this Christmas! It's the first time I've ever been in warm weather for Christmas. I'm hesitating to tell you guys because so far the few people I've told have shot cold, Michigan daggers at me for fleeing to the warmth. Just call us some good ole SNOWBIRDS this year!
NYE 2018
This pretty much sums up how we rang in the New Year last year at a good friend's wedding. No clue what we'll do this year but wanting it to be more chill. What're your NYE plans?!
Related posts: 2016 Year in Review
November Frost Moon
Artist in Residence at Soul Sister Studio
Working from my mom's studio last month was just what my soul needed. I definitely lean on the side of being too hard on myself so a change of scenery and time with my Momma was rejuvenating and reinspired me. She's such a wise, inspiring, and kickass woman. Bay City friends, check out the holiday markets my Mom's selling her functional pottery on her FB page!
Related posts: Soul Sister Studio Styled Shoot / Not Our Mothers' Pantsuit
Design Chat at Grand Valley State University
The design chat with GVSU students was super informal. Senior students asked me questions about getting their first jobs, how to set prices, and shared their final projects with me. Each time I do something like this, I get so filled up knowing I'm part of a community of artists, hustlers, and changemakers. It's really quite beautiful! Grand Rapids friends, check out the GVSU Senior Graphic Design Show December 4–7.
Related posts: 3 tips for your first interview / Networking tips / Design resources
Girls Hiking Trip in Kentucky
Oh my gosh, I haven't laughed this hard in a long time! A weekend with these three had me rolling...and hiking 10 miles...and playing drinking games to awful Hallmark Holiday movies. A weekend in the mountains was another moment of recharging and a reminder of how important long-lasting friendships are. We were happy to discover we hiked on #nationaltakeahikeday too!
Related posts: Thoughts on sisterhood / Weekender bags roundup / Mountain moodboard
Thanksgiving at Home
We celebrated Thanksgiving at my parent's house with family this year. As mom and dad got the turkey and other dishes ready I set the dinner table and dessert buffet (yes we have a buffet dedicated just to desserts). The night ended with pumpkin pie and watching Hallmark Holiday movies......are you seeing a pattern here?! I've been watching A LOT of holiday movies.
Happy December friends, I hope you're having a wonderful month so far!
Full Moon Monthly recaps life lately and what’s on the horizon. See all moons here.
November Frost Moon
Life lately in tune with the monthly full moon cycle.
October Harvest Moon – November Frost Moon
Hello! The November Frost Moon is the 4th post in Full Moon Monthly, a new series on Brave Girl that recaps life lately and what's on the horizon. The Frost Moon is also known as the Beaver Moon because Algonquin tribes would set beaver traps before the swamps froze to have enough warmth supply for the winter (source). We had snow here in the Midwest just this week! Since the Harvest Moon last month, there's been loss, solitude, and inward change.
November Frost Moon
Artist in Residence at Soul Sister Studio
That's right! I'm heading to my hometown for some work time in my mom's studio this month. I don't think I've ever shared it here but my Mom is a super talented potter and artist (I have to tell you this because she won't). I credit most of my foundational creativity to her because she's always fostered an environment in our home for my brother and me to create freely. I'm excited to spend time in her pottery studio and visit with her and my dad this month.
Related posts: Not Our Mothers' Pantsuit
Design Chat at Grand Valley State University
Design students, comin' at ya! I'll be at GVSU speaking with soon-to-be design graduates about how to become successful freelance designers after college. I'm excited to share what I've learned in the last 10 years in hopes it will help design lovers get started in their ventures. Comment below questions you have. Let's chat if you're freelance or want to start but you're not sure how to.
Related posts: 3 tips for your first interview / Networking tips
Girls Hiking Trip in Kentucky
Some of my girlfriends decided we needed to get to the mountains for some fresh air. We have a few trails planned out to hike and are staying in a refurbished shipping container near the mountains. Some days I imagine it being a dreamy girl’s trip to reconnect with each other and to nature. Other days my imagination runs wild from the handful of scary movies I've seen. haha. I'm excited for some girl time nonetheless!
Related posts: Thoughts on sisterhood / Weekender bags roundup / Mountain moodboard
Shut Down Line 5 at Rockford Brewery
I donated a hand-lettered Lake print to my friend's effort to raise money to Shut Down Line 5. Line 5 is an old pipeline spanning the bottom of Lake Michigan west of the Mackinac Bridge into Canada. It's owned by a Canadian oil company that has a bad rap in oil spills and who delivers 23 million gallons of oil EVERY DAY through these old pipelines. There's serious concern an oil spill can happen if the issue isn't acknowledged properly. As a Michigander who relies on & loves our Lakes, you can bet I'm doing what I can! Local readers, there's a donation event at Rockford Brewery on November 16 to purchase a print, a pint, and listen to music to donate to this important cause.
Related posts: Official Line 5 shutdown website
October Harvest Moon
Growth
The Harvest Moon this year ended up being a doozy. Life just throws you shit, usually unexpectedly, and it sucks. BUT. BUT, we are still here so there's joy in that. The shit is a reminder of how human we really are. This month was a real breakthrough in my understanding and accepting myself for who I am.
“The tiny seed knew that in order to grow, it needed to be dropped in dirt, covered in darkness, struggle to reach the light.”
Yoga, continued
After my 2-week trial, I got a month unlimited of yoga! This was big for me as my workout habits have been inconsistent since college. Happy to report I stopped cheating on my plank and was able to do the crow pose for a few seconds by the end of the month. My membership is over so now I want to try something more challenging to keep increasing my strength. Comment below: what's your workout and where do you go?!
Options I'm considering: AM Yoga / FlexCity Fitness (thanks Tieka!)
Halloween with Witches
So my Halloween with friend’s plans changed to Halloween with Witches Brew, white chicken chili, and Hocus Pocus on repeat. We did some super lame dressing up from the couch as a voodoo tarot reader and sugar skull, with Tiger as his annual Official Treat Inspector handkerchief, and that was about it. It was nice to stay in and be warm though!
Staying In
Out of everything I was the MOST consistent with staying in this month, haha. I'm such a homebody and the chilly temperatures make me hunker down even more. We caught up on a lot of shows – Nashville, Jane the Virgin, Saved by the Bell, This is Us. Apparently, we need to be watching Stranger Things like the rest of the country...should we?! What are your favorite shows?
Full Moon Monthly recaps life lately and what’s on the horizon. See all moons here.
October Harvest Moon
Life lately in tune with the monthly full moon cycle.
September Corn Moon – October Harvest Moon
Hello! The October Harvest Moon is the 3rd post in Full Moon Monthly, a new series that recaps life lately and what's on the horizon. The October moon is interesting because it's the Harvest Moon this year. It's often called the Hunter's Moon because it's the time hunters seek their fall meal here in the Midwest. The Harvest moon switches between September and October each year because the Harvest Moon is defined as whatever day is closest to the Autumnal Equinox (September 22) so this year October 5th's full moon is the Harvest Moon. Since the Corn Moon last month, there's been rest, healing, and a new workout routine.
October Harvest Moon
Cloth + Cabin Fall Event
One of the stockists that carry my prints, Cloth + Cabin is having a pop-up shop at a beautiful space in Grand Rapids I'm excited for. They're the epitome of modern farmhouse style in the area and at really great prices. Join me? Cloth + Cabin Fall Pop-Up
Halloween with friends
Ok, this is not me (obviously?). But it's my Halloween costume idea for this year! A mermaid/siren. I'm dressing up as a mermaid with some other friends and we're going to have a weekend of decorating and crafting our costumes with Halloween movies, music, and mimosas. I haven't been into Halloween much the last couple of years so I'm looking forward to being in the spirit this year!
Staying In
Still holding true to sticking close to home this season. Yoga, coffee dates, and client meetings in town are as far as I want to venture this moon. There are so many changes and transitions going on in our life right now that the obsessive planning bone in my body is being put to rest and hopefully not to return in the way it has been. I think planning is good until it starts to control my life and tricking me into thinking I actually have control in this world. Slow weekends and nights for me.
September Corn Moon
Two weeks of yoga
Two weeks of yoga at Funky Buddha was exactly what I needed! The more I talk about yoga the more I realize it isn't for everyone. Some people don't need this pace or meditation but I really do. It's easier for me to not do anything at all but making yoga a daily priority makes me feel strong and energized again. I seem to say hello to myself on the mat in the way I need to hear it.
My favorite yoga places: Funky Buddha / AM Yoga / my friend Tori Lee Yoga
Local Events
Woowee, this full moon showed me the importance of community. I've always longed for it and never felt it quite the way I felt it this month. There are some KICK ASS creatives, bloggers, and entrepreneurs in this town and I'm so happy I've been able to meet them. I was quite the social butterfly and am now recovering, haha. I'm an extroverted introvert so while I'm energized at events, I tend to get drained by it easily and need some recoup days.
Related posts: Tieka's Runway off Wealthy recap / Kherington's fall style / Meet Cute Community
Our 1 year marriage anniversary!
We didn't go to a beer festival as planned. In fact, we originally planned on celebrating our 1-year anniversary in Maine. Then convinced ourselves Traverse City was the best way to celebrate. Ultimately we found ourselves more simply – basking in the sun on the dune where Joel proposed to me 2 years ago. We thought it needed to be extravagant but all we needed was Him. Me. Open space. and Tiger. It was the perfect lesson in marriage – things, places, finances – isn't Love. Remember why you're in love. The sand, water, and sky will remind you.
Related posts: Our First Dance / His Neck
Wine Club
Wine Club #40 did not disappoint. The host this month lived only a few blocks away and I loved not having the long drive back home as I have in the past! The consensus on New Zealand wines was poor, none of us really liked them. But the conversations we had with a more intimate group this month soothed the soul and made me feel grateful for these women I get to hang out with each month.
Joel's 29th birthday
Since Joel's birthday was on a weeknight we celebrated a bit more laidback than usual. I woke up early to set out some gifts on the kitchen counter, made coffee, and then made him dinner of his choice when he got home from work. We cuddled with the fur babies and caught up on some of his favorite series like Suits and Nashville. He has started to implement birthday month as I do with mine so we've continued to do fun things of his choosing on the weekends!
Full Moon Monthly recaps life lately and what’s on the horizon. See all moons here.
September Corn Moon
Life lately in tune with the monthly full moon cycle.
August Sturgeon Moon – September Corn Moon
Hello! The September Corn Moon is the 2nd post in Full Moon Monthly, a new blog series that recaps life lately and what's on the horizon. The September moon is interesting this year because it IS NOT the Harvest Moon like it was last year. The Harvest Moon is the moon closest to the Autumnal Equinox (September 22) so this year October 5th's full moon will be the Harvest Moon. Since the Sturgeon Moon last month, there have been birthday celebrations, job changes, and a lot of internal reflection.
September Corn Moon
Two weeks of yoga
The last time I was consistently involved in yoga was when my hair was long and partly red. AKA 3 years ago! There is a multitude of ways to find inner peace and I seem to find it on the mat. I don't know why the things that are good for us get put last but I'm attempting to get back into it this month with two weeks of yoga at Funky Buddha.
Local Events
There are a few local events this moon I'm really looking forward to like an Anthropologie Denim event, Women in Leadership Town Hall with Ladies Get Paid Grand Rapids, Runway off Wealthy, and Creative Risk Tasking at The Rising Tide's monthly meetup. Oh, and Artprize, an annual national art competition that happens in Grand Rapids will begin! Surrounded by art, swoon.
Our 1 year marriage anniversary!
What a year it's been! I've already started reflecting so much about what our marriage means to me, our life together, our dreams, and how much life has changed since our Harvest Moon wedding last year. Sometimes I really need to pinch myself! We're hoping to celebrate the way we do best – at a craft beer festival close to home. Oh yeah!
Wine Club
I haven't been to Wine Club since moving. I'm really excited to catch up with everyone I haven't seen in awhile. Tieka of Selective Potential has a great post on how to start your own wine club. This month is Wine Club #40 for the Grand Rapids ladies and we're celebrating with New Zealand wines!
Joel's birthday
I won't tell you which birthday he's celebrating...let's just say he's close to the big 3-0. I'm so excited to celebrate Joel! He's so compassionate, humorous, and giving to me. Now it's my turn to wait on him and oogle over him all day (his favorite, haha). We treat birthdays big around here as you can see from what he did for my birthday below. Hmm, I have some brainstorming to do!
August Sturgeon Moon
My 27th birthday
I didn't end up seeing the annual Perseid Meteor Shower as I hoped because it was too cloudy but I had an AMAZING day. Joel treated me like a Queen with rosé at Rose's, homemade dinner with fresh veggies from the Fulton Street Farmer's Market, a Whitecaps baseball game with fireworks (he won me a shirt!), and live music at Founders to end the night. It was so relaxing and energizing at the same time.
Freelance designer and writer
The first few weeks are under my belt and I'm loving it so far. A lot of things people think are perks to being a freelancer really aren't the reality of working freelance. It's a big responsibility and sometimes feels like free-falling. But I'm enjoying setting my own routine and being more present daily.
See the summer round-up of my design work or shop my prints.
Coffee and lunch dates
I really enjoyed the multiple coffees and lunch dates I had last month. I'm not a foodie so what I enjoy most is connecting with new and old friends. Joel and I also went on a coffee date and it reminded me how important it is to prioritize each other. It's easy to take each other for granted when we're with each other everyday and life gets busy. I'm grateful we did something about being off-balance. I mean, just look at him! I'll sit across the table from him at a coffee shop for the rest of my life.
Visit home
I don't get to see my parents as much as I'd like so when we spend a weekend together, I usually don't stop talking or smiling. Our visit last month was no different. We talked about the world on the Peace Porch, saw my Dad's new Jeep, my Mom's renovated pottery studio, took a long bike ride along the river, and had some of the best margaritas by the bonfire. I was already anticipating the next time I'll get to be with them before we even pulled out of the driveway.
Labor Day Weekend at the Lodge
Relaxing with no plans (& no cell service!) was better than I even imagined it would be. We went to a friend's family lodge that used to be an old ski resort. A pond, beach volleyball, sunbathing, Beer Olympics, and the most beautiful view of the rolling hills...it all felt good for the soul, just what I needed. 2 days later and Tiger is still sleeping, ha!
Full Moon Monthly recaps life lately and what’s on the horizon. See all moons here.
August Sturgeon Moon
Life lately in tune with the monthly full moon cycle.
July Thunder Moon – August Sturgeon Moon
As I mentioned in my last post, Full Moon Monthly is a new blog series that recaps life lately and what's on the horizon. I hope to honor Grandmother Moon and the Native Americans who named each moon of the year, as well. I think it'll be fun and hope it will be for you too! The August Sturgeon Moon is the first because August is my personal new year.
August Sturgeon Moon
My 27th birthday
I'm hoping to see the annual Perseid Meteor Shower. We'll have to get up at 4 am and go away from the city a bit to see it. I try every year but usually miss it due to cloudy weather or wanting my comfy bed more. We'll see!
Freelance designer and writer
Next week I'll be a full-time freelance graphic designer and writer. I'll explain more details and my career goals in an upcoming post but for now, just know I'm excited for what's to come.
See my latest design and lettering work or shop my prints.
Coffee and lunch dates
It's important to step away from the workload and listen to others' dreams, beliefs, and challenges. My next meeting is over ice cream (fun!) and we'll be chatting all about how to start a blog. If you want to start a passion project or blog but don't know where to start, ask me here.
Labor Day Weekend Up North
I'm looking forward to time up north with friends. I'm most excited about Tiger actually. haha. Apartment life can be a drag for him so I can't wait for a long weekend in nature. Relaxing with no plans, ahhh.
July Thunder Moon
One of my best friends got married!
We celebrated in Royal Oak with old friends and new ones. I planned her Bachelorette Party (honeybee and lavender-themed) and hand-lettered their Marriage Vision for their new home.
Joel started a new job
Some of you may know my husband is a recruiter and AMAZING with people. He has a way of setting people at ease, especially in stressful and uncertain situations, like finding your next job. I'm so happy for him, he's really enjoying it so far! See his Guest Post on The Power of Influence.
Went to a Kalamazoo Growlers baseball game
One of my favorite summertime activities is watching baseball on a summer night. It was a great time catching up with friends and drinks at Hopcat afterward. You have to stop by when in Kalamazoo! There's a patio with outdoor yard games and a taco food truck from an Airstream.
GRNow App Launch party
Kherington of Currently Kherington invited Joel and me to The Sovengard to celebrate the GRNow event app for the Grand Rapids area. Another beautiful summer night getting to know new friends like Ashley and Kristin and their hubbies better. My favorite app feature is the map to find events based on location.
Cloth + Cabin Launch party
More celebrating! This time for one of my wholesalers, Cloth + Cabin. They're an online store of curated wantables for your closet and home. My prints are featured in the Modern Farmhouse collection. Summer print (on sale!) and Leave Her Wild print are available. The launch party was in THE CUTEST barn east of town and the details, oh my, they truly thought of everything. It was like a little taste of Magnolia. And I hung out with Kherington again. It was great getting to know her better! I love her recap of the event.
Full Moon Monthly recaps life lately and what’s on the horizon. See all moons here.
Full Moon Monthly | Yearly Calendar Series
Life lately in tune with the monthly full moon cycle.
I used to make calendars at the beginning of August when I was a little girl because my birthday is in August. It feels like my personal new year. I made a calendar each summer filled with quotes and pictures of family and friends. It became a scrapbook of trinkets from the previous year that I would celebrate while bringing in the next one.
Full Moon Monthly is a new blog series to bring this back to my life. I'll share what's going on in my life between one moon cycle and the next and here's why: The rhythms of the Moon are inherent to all of us, and most strongly within women. Our natural menstrual cycle is around 28 days. The cycle of the Moon is the same. This is not a coincidence. I've started to acknowledge this cycle more in my life and this is another way to do so. I also really enjoy doing summaries of what just happened (gratitude) and what's coming next (excitement). So here's what you can expect!
What to expect from Full Moon Monthly
Each Moon will be associated with its month on the Gregorian calendar.
Each Moon will have the name Native Americans of the Great Lakes have named it.
A link to the Mystic Mamma Full Moon reading for each Moon. Friends interested in how the Moon affects you each month, this is for you.
A recap of life lately and what's coming up. Maybe this will inspire you to start your own gratitude tracking. I get so caught up in where I want TO BE that I don't acknowledge all the good in where I am RIGHT NOW.
Read my first full moon monthly: August 2017