reflections on a sweet season: finding inspiration in the pause

This summer has been a little slower, a little messier, but my favourite one that I can remember. Between extended weekends at the cottage with the kids, turning marketplace pickups into road trips, and afternoons spent experimenting in the kitchen, my usual business routine has been... well, interrupted. And that’s okay.

the season of pause 

This summer has felt like a deep breath. My youngest starts kindergarten in a few days, so I’m savoring these days more intentionally than ever. Productivity has slowed—it has to when your mornings are spent packing road trip picnics and running through sprinklers. I’ve always measured my business by how many pieces I paint, how many loaves I bake, or how many orders I ship. I’ll admit I feel anxious when my output slows, but I can also embrace that the to-list this summer isn’t only about what I want to accomplish. The cottage, the kids, even just lingering longer over coffee have reminded me that it’s okay to pause. Seasons shift, and so do priorities.

creative fuel from everyday moments 

Even in this quieter season, inspiration has a way of sneaking in. Slowing down has given me time to daydream and reflect on what directions I want to take in the months to come. Every time I thrift I grab cute little vintage goodies that I think would be so cute as a gift, which gets me dreaming about new gift boxes. Visiting the farmer’s market and seeing the seasonal bounty has me brainstorming a year’s worth of feature sourdough recipes. Slowing down can leave room to recharge and get inspired. 

balancing acts 

I’d be lying if I said it’s easy to let go of the “to-do” list. Running a home-based business means there’s always work whispering from the other room. But this summer has taught me that being fully present doesn’t mean abandoning my work—it just means giving myself grace. Some days are about sanding and painting; others are about catching frogs with my kids or baking cookies just because we can. This is a season of messy balance, where family edges out productivity, and that’s exactly as it should be right now.

rest to recharge

If you’re in a season like mine—pulled between your work and your people—I hope you give yourself permission to embrace the “less done, more present” mindset. Inspiration lives in everyday moments: a thrifted find, a simple meal, a quiet evening by the water. Take time to notice them, to let them fill your creative cup. And when the busy seasons return (because they always do), you’ll be ready to create and grow with a heart full of the things that matter most.

Until next time,

Lisa