Discover small ways to bring beauty into your days through creativity, ritual, music, and sensory experiences.

I love creating **soothing paintings inspired by the seasons**.

Winter has a way of asking us to soften our edges.

To slow down. To notice what’s still quietly blooming,

even when the world feels bare.

For me, as an artist, beauty in winter reveals itself in small, intentional moments—the warm glow of candles that make the house feel extra cozy, a simmer pot filled with the scents of the season, twinkly lights strewn throughout my home and studio, music playing softly in the background, and a sketchbook open on the table with no expectations attached.

It’s a season that invites us inward, reminding us that creativity and joy don’t disappear—they simply change their rhythm.

*This photo was taken at Bluff Point State Park, a place I go to walk, find peace, and get inspiration for my art.

Embracing Hygge in Winter

Lately, I’ve been inspired by the idea of hygge—the Danish practice of cultivating coziness, connection, and contentment through simple pleasures. The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living is a lovely place to start. It feels like a gentle permission slip to embrace the quiet beauty of this season.

As an artist, I notice how much my work thrives in these small, mindful moments—the pause, the quiet, the attention to light and detail. One of the ideas I love most about hygge (pronounced- HOO-guh) is that it doesn’t require anything elaborate. It’s about creating a sense of warmth, presence, and ease—right where you are.

No productivity required.

No outcome expected.

Just a moment to be fully there.

Returning to these small rituals, whether in my studio or at home, reminds me that they aren’t indulgent—they’re essential. Especially in winter.

Here are some simple hygge winter rituals you might try this season:

Light a candle or turn on a soft lamp. (I love Linnea candles. Their ingredients are eco-friendly and cruelty-free, something I look for in a candle. The forest fir scent is especially lovely for winter.)
Put on a favorite song from the playlist below.
Make a warm drink—tea, coffee, hot cocoa, or pour a nice glass of red wine (my preferred cozy drink😘).
Sit for a few quiet minutes with a book, a painting, a sketchbook, or simply your thoughts.
Make a simmer pot to naturally fragrance your home with seasonal scents by gently simmering water with fruits, herbs, and spices on a stovetop, creating a cozy atmosphere.
Cuddle up in a cozy blanket by the glow of a fire like my kitties, Gracie & Maisy. They have no trouble embracing the hygge.

*These are my two sister kitties: Gracie Mae (black and white) & Maisy Olive (black)

Happy Winter Playlists for the Season

Music has a way of setting the tone for a season. In winter especially, I find myself reaching for songs that feel comforting and familiar—music that softens the edges of the day and makes even the most ordinary moments feel a little more special.

I’m sharing two playlists to meet you wherever you are.

Held by Winter moves between quiet reflection and gentle energy—songs that carry you through candlelit evenings, early mornings, or any moment when you want to feel present and attuned to the rhythm of the season.

*I love creating special hand-painted ornaments this time of year.

This Happy Holiday Playlist is exactly what it sounds like—a joyful mix of favorite Holiday songs meant to be listened to while cooking, decorating, gathering with friends and family, or adding a little lift to winter days. It’s the playlist I turn on when the house feels full and the season is in motion.

Here’s a simple winter ritual you might try this season:

Light a candle, brew a warm drink, or pull out a sketchbook. Press play on whichever playlist fits your moment and let the music guide your pace—linger in stillness, hum along to a joyful tune, or let the day unfold in its own quiet rhythm.

Whether you’re craving stillness or celebration, I hope one or both of these playlists bring a bit more beauty and warmth into your winter.

Morning Inspiration: Magnolia’s Winter Journal

Start your day with reflection. Magnolia’s Winter Journal is a gentle companion, full of imagery, recipes, and prompts to slow down and savor the season. Pair it with a cup of tea and a few songs from Held by Winter for a serene morning ritual.

Magnolia is a beautiful magazine to read any season.

Creative Flow: Wreath Making Tutorials

Live Wreath Making Tutorial

Bring the natural beauty of the season indoors and craft something alive with winter magic. As an artist, I’m drawn to the shapes, textures, and subtle colors found in nature—twisting branches, soft evergreens, dried berries, and fragrant herbs.

Wreath making is a way to slow down, notice these details, and turn them into a little piece of seasonal art for your home. It’s a hands-on ritual that grounds your space in beauty and invites you to connect with the natural world.

Origami Wreath Tutorial

My friend Kathy Johnson has created a playful and imaginative origami wreath tutorial, a gentle twist on winter decor that feels both whimsical and approachable. This hands-on project is perfect to do with your kids or to share with a group of friends for a cozy ladies’ night in. Add some music, gather around the table, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon creating something lovely together.

Midday Warmth: Hot Mulled Cider Recipe

I love when the house fills with the scents of winter—soft spices, simmering citrus, and that unmistakable feeling of cozy settling in. This warm, spiced cider is perfect for sipping while you cook, craft, or listen to your favorite playlist—bringing a little ritual and comfort into your day. If you fancy (like me), add a little bourbon for a bit of mischief in your mug.

Evening Nourishment: Winter Salad Recipe

This bright, crisp winter salad is one of those simple meals I return to again and again. As an artist, I’m always noticing color, contrast, and texture, and this dish feels like a small, edible composition—fresh greens, winter citrus, and just enough balance to feel complete. I love serving it by candlelight, slowing down, and taking a quiet moment to reflect on the day.

Winter is full of small moments worth savoring—music to carry you, hands-on projects to immerse you, recipes to nourish you, and inspiration to slow down and notice. I hope these playlists, tutorials, and treats bring a little extra warmth, creativity, and beauty into your season.

A Gentle Offering for the Season

If this season is asking you to slow down, soften, or trust what’s quietly unfolding, I’ve created a set of Affirmations on Trust as a free, downloadable resource.

I use them as gentle reminders to trust my intuition, both in and out of the studio, to build confidence, and to stay connected to my values. They help me remember that everything is always working out for my greatest good. Perfect for quiet mornings, journaling, before a creative project, or anytime you need a little grounding.