As the world is undoubtedly moving towards digital communication, handwritten letters are fast becoming a rare commodity. In fact, most people haven’t written a personal letter in years, as per a recent survey. Who has time for manual spell-check, stationery, and stamps nowadays? — a common justification for choosing the convenience of texts and emails. Yet, there’s a timeless allure to handwritten notes. And it’s premature to write off the importance of this kind of deliberate communication. 

What Makes Handwritten Letters So Special?

A Demonstration of Effort

Texts, social media messages, or emails are essentially costless. So, for one, handwritten letters mean more because they cost more. They show that you care – in more ways than the text inside. When you write a letter by hand, you invest time and thought, selecting words carefully, often pouring out genuine emotions onto the page. The effort put into handwriting a letter reflects the level of care and consideration beyond the simplicity of typing a message on a keyboard. It becomes a labor of love, an intentional expression.

A Personal Touch

Handwritten letters are a tangible expression of personal connection. Unlike the sterile uniformity of digital fonts, each pen stroke carries your unique personality. The slant of the letters, the pressure applied, and the choice of ink all contribute to a distinctive handwriting style as unique as a fingerprint. This personal touch is irreplaceable.

Emotional Resonance

Handwritten letters have an emotional resonance that digital messages often lack. The physicality of a letter makes it a keepsake, a tangible reminder of the sentiments shared between you and the recipient. Likewise, the tactile experience of receiving a handwritten letter and unfolding its pages can evoke a spectrum of emotions, from nostalgia and tenderness to excitement and joy.

A Reprieve from the Fast Pace

In a time that applauds swiftness, handwriting compels us to decelerate and focus on the present moment. As a call to slow down, the deliberate pace of handwriting enables more contemplative and purposeful communication. It also offers a therapeutic escape from the constant barrage of notifications and online distractions, allowing you to unplug from the digital world.

Tradition and History

Handwritten letters are not just personal artifacts. They are also pieces of living history. From love letters exchanged during wartime to correspondences between influential figures that shaped the course of nations, the art of writing letters has deep roots in human civilization. That’s why preserving this tradition is not just an exercise in nostalgia; it is a commitment to recognizing the cultural significance of handwritten communication. 

Photo by Duet Postcriptum | Bella Grace Issue 19

Tips for Writing Thoughtful Handwritten Letters

1. Choose the Right Stationery

The choice of stationery can elevate the overall experience of a handwritten letter. High-quality paper and envelopes add a touch of elegance to your correspondence. Choose paper that not only feels good to the touch but also reflects your style. Whether it’s classic parchment, textured cotton, or a modern, minimalist aesthetic, the stationery sets the tone for the entire letter. 

2. Put in the Time and Intention

Writing a handwritten letter is a deliberate act that requires time and intention. Set aside a quiet, distraction-free moment, and let your thoughts flow onto the paper. Take your time, be patient, and let the writing process be a meditative experience. The recipient will undoubtedly feel the sincerity and effort invested in every word.

3. Personalize with Details

Make your handwritten letter more meaningful by adding personal touches. Consider including a wax seal, pressed flowers, or hand-drawn doodles. These elements make each letter a one-of-a-kind creation. Also, mention specific memories, inside jokes, or shared experiences that will resonate with the recipient. Lastly, your handwriting is a personal and distinctive element that adds character to your letters, so embrace your unique handwriting style.

4. Experiment with Calligraphy

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider practicing calligraphy. Whether you opt for traditional or modern calligraphy styles, the elegant flourishes and artistic lettering can transform your handwritten letter into a work of art.

5. Embrace Imperfections

One of the beauties of handwritten letters lies in their imperfections. Embrace the occasional smudges, crossed-out words, and uneven lines as evidence of the letter’s authenticity. Perfection is not the goal. It’s the sincerity and effort that make the letter truly special.

Photo by Alvaro Serrano | Bella Grace Issue 16

Things to Tuck Inside a Letter

There is such joy in walking to the mailbox, opening it, and finding a handwritten letter from a friend or loved one inside. Imagine opening that letter and, in addition to the thoughtful note, noticing a tiny little treasure tucked inside. Have you ever considered what small, flat objects you can include in your letter?

1. Confetti 
2. Flower seeds
3. Photographs
4. Vintage postage 
5. Foreign currency with a beautiful design
6. Iron-on patches
7. Stickers
8.  Tea bags

Explore the rest of this list in Bella Grace Issue 32.

So, how long has it been since you last gave someone a handwritten letter?

Discover more ways to savor life’s simple joys, embrace mindful moments, and find inspiration in Bella Grace magazine.

The post The Beauty of Handwritten Letters first appeared on Bella Grace Magazine.

As the year draws to a close, there seems to be a natural inclination for introspection and anticipation that stirs within us. The impending transition to a new year – a fresh start, as some would hope – amplifies our desire to set goals and project our hopes into the future. These aspirations, albeit personal, don’t have to only be in our heads. Vision boards and mood boards can make them tangible. Read on to learn more about these visual tools.

The Difference Between Vision Boards and Mood Boards 

While vision boards and mood boards share the common thread of visual expression, each serves distinct purposes. A vision board is a tangible representation of specific achievements or experiences you aim to bring into your life. It’s a roadmap for the future, a collection of images and words that magnetically draw you toward your envisioned success. 

On the other hand, mood boards transcend the specificity of goals, diving deep into your emotions and aesthetic preferences. Unlike vision boards, which focus on goals, mood boards encapsulate a vibe, a feeling, or a theme you want to embody in a particular area of your life, be it a creative project, a room design, or your style.

Vision Boards

Since the release of the 2006 self-help book and film The Secret, which introduced the law of attraction to the masses, vision boards have risen in popularity. These boards stem from the belief that, by envisioning yourself already there, health, wealth, and happiness can come from such positive thinking – if you visualize it, it’ll come. This belief is something that influential thought leaders like Gabrielle Bernstein, Deepak Chopra, and Oprah all agree, hence why the boards have become even more popular.

Vision boards – or dream boards – are often collages of quotations, pictures, or other visuals that convey your goals and aspirations. As a tool for manifesting those goals, these boards focus on a specific theme or period and are highly personalized.

Photo by Cottonbro Studio

Types of Vision Boards

Although there are many different types of vision boards, below are three main themes.

Goal Boards

This type of vision board focuses on a specific goal, like fitness training or saving money. It can include inspirational pictures, infographics, motivational quotes, and even worksheets to keep track of your progress visually.

Theme Boards

Theme boards are less specific and focus on a life theme you want to come to fruition. These tend to revolve around special interests or more long-term goals. A theme board, for example, can be about your relationship goals or professional aspirations.

Reflection Boards

Reflection boards center around personal development and inner growth. You learn more about yourself and what makes you happy with these boards. They can also help lift your mood. For instance, you may make a reflection board filled with uplifting imagery to deal with the winter blues.

Why Vision Boards Can Be Effective

Besides being a fun arts and crafts project, vision boards are mental practices, and these, according to Psychology Today, increase confidence, motivation, and even motor performance while reducing stress. Research suggests that, compared to other types of stimuli, the brain tends to put a higher value on visual imagery. Visual representations are usually more memorable than words. Because of that, your vision board may stick out in your mind more than a to-do list.

There’s nevertheless a problem with vision boards. When people assign their dreams to a vision board, more often than not, they stop exerting effort to get what they want. They instead wait for the universe to deliver those wants. Research shows that visualizing positive outcomes without the hard work it takes can hinder achievement and performance. So, vision boards may hinder growth rather than fuel it.

Photo by Cottonbro Studio

How to Create Your Vision Board

Creating a vision board is a deeply personal and creative endeavor. It involves a combination of self-reflection, goal-setting, and artistic expression.

Step 1: Clarify Your Goals and Aspirations

Take a moment for introspection before diving into the creative process. Define both short-term and long-term goals across various aspects of your life. Consider your health, personal development, career, and relationships. This first step lays the foundation for the words and images on your vision board.

Step 2: Gather the Necessary Materials

Prepare by gathering materials for your vision board. For those opting for a physical board, collect magazines, scissors, glue, and a sturdy board or poster. For those choosing a digital approach, explore online platforms or apps that allow you to curate a virtual vision board with images and text. Having all your materials ready makes it easier for you to focus on the visual representation of your goals.

Step 3: Thoughtfully Select Images and Words

The heart of your vision board lies in the images and words you choose. Flip through magazines or browse online sources, carefully selecting visuals that resonate with your goals and evoke positive emotions. Choose words and phrases that encapsulate the essence of your aspirations. 

Each element should contribute to a narrative that inspires and motivates you. Trust your intuition during this process. The connection between your chosen elements and your vision is crucial for the board’s impact.

Step 4: Organize and Personalize Your Board

With your chosen elements in hand, it’s time to arrange them on your board. Experiment with different layouts, considering thematic sections or an arrangement based on the various areas of your life. 

This step is not just about visual appeal. It’s an opportunity to infuse your board with personal touches. Include photographs, handwritten affirmations, or any other elements that hold significant meaning to you. The more personalized your vision board is, the more meaningful and inspiring it becomes.

Step 5: Ensure Visibility, Activation, and Regular Engagement

Place your completed vision board in a visible location – whether in your personal space, bedroom, or office. Creating a vision board is just the initial step. The key to its effectiveness lies in consistent activation. Here are some strategies to maximize the impact of your vision board:

1. Regular Visualization: Spend a few minutes daily focusing on your vision board. Close your eyes and imagine yourself living the life depicted on the board.
2. Affirmations: Complement your visualizations with affirmations that reinforce the positivity and achievement associated with your goals. 
3. Goal Breakdown: Segment your long-term goals into smaller, actionable steps. Use your vision board as a roadmap, guiding you through each milestone.
4. Gratitude Journaling: Cultivate a mindset of gratitude by keeping a journal. Regularly jot down the progress toward your goals and acknowledge the positive changes in your life.
5. Vision Board Updates: Life is dynamic – so are your goals. Periodically revisit and update your vision board to reflect changes in your aspirations or circumstances.

Photo by Natalie Dupin

Mood Boards

While vision boards are for goal-oriented visualization, mood boards tap into your emotions and aesthetic preferences. Around the 1970s, mood boards became a popular brainstorming tool in advertising and fashion. These boards are a compilation of images, colors, fonts, and textures that collectively convey the project’s mood, tone, and aesthetic.

Creating a mood board starts with a theme or emotion you want to evoke. Are you aiming for a sense of tranquility, excitement, or sophistication? Collect images, colors, textures, and even fabrics that resonate with this theme. The beauty of mood boards lies in their versatility – they can be physical or digital, private or shared. They’re not limited to professional use. Anyone looking to convey a certain vibe can benefit from the mood board process.

Believe in the value of vision boards and mood boards or not, there’s truth in the power of visualization, self-awareness, and positive thinking. At Bella Grace, we believe an ordinary life can be extraordinary and that there’s magic in the everyday. If you seek positivity and want to embrace life’s beautiful journey like us, click here to check out our magazine.

The post Visual Roadmaps: Vision Boards and Mood Boards first appeared on Bella Grace Magazine.

After enduring months of cold, dark, dreary days, it can be easy to feel like the sun may never shine again. Putting together a “basket of sunshine” is a thoughtful way to spread some cheer and remind a friend that sunnier days are just around the corner. The concept is simple: gather a collection of comforting things in various shades of yellow.

To make it feel even more special, you can bundle the items and tie them with twine and even add a dried flower here or there. To get you started on your own basket of sunshine, here are some items to look for.

Yellow Gift Basket Ideas

• Teacups or mugs
• Socks
• Candles

Pencils or pens

• Lip balm
• Journals
• Bubble bath
• Flowers
• Linens
• Wine or shampoo
• Face masks

Handmade soaps

• Lotions
• Body or linen sprays
• Uplifting books
• Candies

Lemonade

• Hair clips
• Tea bags
• Nail polish
• Bath bombs
• Stationery
• Body scrubs

We hope you enjoyed these quick and easy gift basket ideas that are sure to brighten anyone’s day.

For even more inspiration, you might also like:

• Must-Haves for a “Bella” Picnic
• Just Because: 21 Acts of Random Kindness
• The Magic of Impromptu Gifts

Christen Hammons is the Director of Publishing for Stampington & Company and Editor-in-Chief of Bella Grace, Book of Lists, Field Guide to Everyday Magic, The Cozy Issue,Somerset Studio, and GreenCraft. She lives in Orange County with her husband and their two rescue dogs.

The post A Basket of Sunshine first appeared on Bella Grace Magazine.

The holiday season can be such a magical time for many of us. The scent of delicious meals and desserts fill our homes. Candles and twinkle lights make the walls appear as though they’re dancing. Laughter and good cheer fills the air.

It’s all wonderful, but it can also be overwhelming to many of us. The need to be “on” for hours at a time, as well as all the noise and sometimes confusion can be draining for introverts. This is why I like to make sure I give special gifts to the introverts in my life, gifts that will help provide them with a little time and space to themselves.

Get it by Christmas. Click here to view our Holiday Shipping Schedule.

Here are some of my favorites:

1. Bella Grace Starter Set

This starter set provides the perfect introduction to Bella Grace magazine! Celebrate life’s beautiful journey with the captivating stories inside Bella Grace, and shine a spotlight on the here and now with inspiration from Field Guide to Everyday Magic Issue 6.

Look Inside >>

2. Love Who You Are 2021 Deluxe Planner by Papaya Art

Make sure she makes time for herself with this gorgeous planner. Include a little note encouraging the recipient to make sure to schedule plenty of “me time.”

Get a Closer Look >>

3. Cream Giving Socks

We all need a little comfort now and then, and these Cream Giving Socks are a giftable hug for the feet! With ready-to-gift packaging, these pieces are thoughtful keepsakes to delight friends and family on special occasions or just because. These socks have been knit together with love to remind the recipient that someone is always thinking of them with warm, fuzzy feelings, and a hug in their heart.

Get a Closer Look >>

4. New Flowers Bloom Bella Grace Bundle

Who wouldn’t love this beautiful gift set to help them discover the things that matter most? Our New Flowers Bloom Bella Grace Bundle combines Bella Grace Issue 22 with one of our favorite clothbound notebooks, providing a special place to record favorite moments, and build dream lists.

Get a Closer Look >>

5. Field Guide to Everyday Magic Subscription

A subscription to Field Guide to Everyday Magic is a gift that continues to give all year long! Our gift subscriptions include a total of 4 issues that will be mailed directly to the recipient’s home every season. Each page of this beautiful publication is designed to inspire and help readers shine a spotlight on the here and now — the radiant glow to be found in seemingly ordinary moments.

See More >>

6. A Light in the Heart Clothbound Notebook by Papaya Art

You can never have too many notebooks, and this one is stunning. This is the perfect place to record thoughts, goals, ideas, and dreams. Add a good pen and a nice ribbon, and this is one gift that is perfect for anyone on your list.

See More >>

7. DIY Wellness Gift Bundle

Every introvert knows how important it is to relax and recharge. This bundle is the perfect introduction to one of our most popular titles, Willow and Sage, and it provides plenty of ideas for homemade bath and body products and candles that are sure to help her hit the reset button!

View Introduction to Willow and Sage Gift Bundle >>

8. Dragonfly Gift Bundle

Introverts with an artistic side will enjoy seeing the creative spaces and havens other women have created for themselves. The gorgeous gilded journal is the perfect place for her to plan out her own private space in the world.

Unwrap this Gift Set >>

9. Giving Shawl

This endearing shawl is designed to give whenever someone near or far could use a hug. Gift to a friend or loved one to let them know you’re thinking about them!

Get a Closer Look >>

10. The Coloring Studio Gift Bundle

Coloring is such a great way to relax and unwind. The Coloring Studio Gift Bundle offers endless hours of coloring, doodling, and more.

View our Coloring Studio Gift Bundle >>

To explore even more gift ideas for introverts, artists, wellness, and more, be sure to check out our:

2020 Holiday Gift Guide

The post The 10 Best Gifts for Introverts first appeared on Bella Grace Magazine.

Every morning I quietly slip downstairs, sometimes with my 4-year-old niece in tow, and open up the large cabinets as my eyes fall directly to the middle shelf. I have seen them all before, but today is a new day with new emotions, and I desire to feel the stir of something new. I yawn as I study the cups before me, all the while assessing my current mood for the morning.

My dainty white mug with raised ridge circles covering it is for the days I desire to feel simple, elegant, and womanly all at the same time. The pastel pink mug with faint speckles is for the cozy moments when I begin the day wearing one of my favorite knit cardigans. I can always envision the joy I will feel while pulling it close to me as my sweater in turn holds me. There is the chrome zigzag coffee cup as well. What it might be lacking aesthetically it makes up for with a tilted lip that easily forms to my lips, which makes my morning read all the more enjoyable. I can easily continue to read without so much as a glance up.

As a self-proclaimed minimalist I pride myself in finding renewed delight within a small collection of coffee cups, but my eyes are ever on the lookout for the next cup that might just be the daily inspiration I am seeking. I might be alone in my morning routine, but I would like to believe there are others out there who enjoy the small moments in life just as much as I do, and maybe, just maybe, they start out each morning picking out their perfect coffee cup too.

Alexis Larimer is an aspiring jewelry designer and entrepreneur who loves harnessing the simple everyday moments in life. You will often find her with her cat curled up in her lap, or on her Instagram (@thelexline).

The post The Power of The Mug first appeared on Bella Grace Magazine.

One thing about our world: There are more ways to receive advice than ever before. A century ago, the main directions you’d get for living might come from your mom, teacher, spiritual leader, and a few well-selected books. Today, we have countless blogs, websites, and yes, even magazines advising us to do all sorts of things — many of them contradictory.

Picking the best approach to life can get confusing when so many pundits make their cases so strongly. Business mavens will tell you to go the extra mile, act with gusto, stand out and brand yourself, and never let up. Yoga types will tell you to slow down, savor the moment, smell the roses, and just let go. It can be hard to decide who has your best interests at heart, or even who knows best! But no matter which advice presents itself, each of us ultimately has to wend her own way through the world.

So here’s a confession: My title, “6 Surefire Ways to Make Your Day Count” is just a title. These are the things I do to feel I’ve lived my day, not just walked through it, and they work for me. Because you’re amazingly unique, only you know which “surefire” pick-ups work for you. You can adapt this list until it fits. Take what resonates and leave the rest.

1. Make that Phone Call

A friendly voice in your ear can really help when you feel lonely. When you listen to someone speak, breathe, and even think into the receiver you experience their reactions much more intimately than you do face-to-face. The voice-to-ear connection provides a focused sensation you won’t get elsewhere. Sensitivity to nuance is heightened and you connect in a way that doesn’t happen when the interface is visual (text, email, etc.). Also, older people really appreciate hearing from you via phone, so call your grandma or uncle right now!

2. Switch the Focus From Getting to Giving

Knowing you’ve sparked joy in someone else will help you go to sleep fulfilled. Join a volunteer group or create something handmade for somebody who needs love and hope. The more positive energy you pour into your creation, the more that energy bubbles up in you and the better you will feel!

3. Find a New Way to be Creative

Shaking it up is a great way to get energized and have a laugh at the same time. If you usually paint, turn on YouTube and test out a beginner belly dance video. If you’re a jewelry-maker, take a week to go plumb stamping-crazy. Keep in mind the adage, “The best surfer is the one who has the most fun,” and apply it to your new experience! Get silly and giggly and switch into discovery mode while leaving your comfort zone. Reward yourself for every botch-up and enjoy the process!

4. Add a Piece of Artwork to the World

This can be as easy as uploading a beautiful photo of a flower to your Instagram or as challenging as you desire. Think back to your favorite artistic experiences and see what suits you. Do you love to collaborate? Make a date to create with a crafty friend or join an artistic community online. Prefer to work alone? Think of something you can only create by yourself … and go for it!

5. Exercise Your Core Uniqueness

Often, workplaces and other settings are not designed to celebrate each person’s special strengths. So time spent working may not give you the warm, glowy feeling that comes from letting your light shine. We can even forget there is anything that makes us special. So when you wake up, ask yourself, “How can I exercise my core talents today?” If you’re still half-asleep, terrific! Let the answer surprise you and write it down before you forget it. Then work on incorporating the answer into some piece of your day.

6. Write Your Happiness Into Being

“Gratitude” has become a cultural buzzword, and we’re told it has lots of benefits, but it’s a hard thing to summon when you’re feeling low. A fun and easy way to improve your mood is to make a list of your blessings or accomplishments right before you go to bed. Decorate it with stamps, stickers, or smiley-faces and tuck it under your pillow. You’ll find at least one thing to feel good about. And if you focus on what you were able to give or contribute, instead of what you received, you’ll feel more powerful about your own ability to impact your day for the better.

Avra loves creating special days. While travel is a passion, she also believes much beauty can be found close to home. Learning how and where to look is, in itself, an adventure. Find more traces of Avra’s journeys at avrakouffman.com.

Olga Gerik is a photographer with a love for vintage cameras, wildflowers, and bicycle rides along the old airline trail in her hometown in Connecticut. Visit her online at olgagerik.com or on Instagram (@photolga_).

The post 6 Surefire Ways to Make Your Day Count first appeared on Bella Grace Magazine.

Passion is whatever nurtures your unique spark and lets it blaze untamed.

What does it mean to live with passion?

Maybe for you, it means pursuing the things that are personally meaningful. Maybe it’s blazing trails where there are none, or letting go of fear in favor of following where your dreams lead.

Passion is whatever nurtures your unique spark and lets it blaze untamed.

Today we’re highlighting honest, personal words about passion from the pages of Bella Grace.

Passion Projects

Kimberly Wilson is an author, artist, and activist with a style all her own. She’s proof that creating meaningful solutions to your own challenges can transform the lives of countless people after you.

Christine Miller’s article, “Kimberly Wilson: Cultivating Mindfulness With Artistic Flair,” from Bella Grace Issue 9, profiles what makes Wilson so dynamic:

“She is a living, breathing embodiment of passion and inspiration whose experience as a creative entrepreneur has evolved from one simple idea: to create what she wants but doesn’t yet exist. ‘Everything I do began as a seed – a desire for an experience that I couldn’t find,’ explains Kimberly, ‘Whether a feminine yoga studio with chandeliers or comfy clothing that transitions from day to night, all of my offerings started out as passion projects; Because they were created to satisfy my own inner cravings, I thought they might also resonate with others.’”

A Passion for Life

In Issue 9’s “Cloud Surfing,” Miranda Allfrey shares the lessons she learned after cancer interrupted her life as she knew it. Though her first impulse was to retreat from her struggles, she eventually came to realize that facing life head-on was the only way she wanted to live. In her words, “My life has been blessed due to the tenacity of how I greet it.”

“We never know what life is going to throw at us. I’ve experienced heartbreak and turmoil, and the past two years have been about regrowth of spirit. I’m saying yes, staying open, experiencing and living life because the alternative for me is hibernation.

…Yes is the only way. I don’t know where I will be tomorrow, but I do know my values, my goals, my dreams, my hopes, and my desires. I don’t know how long I have on this earth, so I’m choosing to live it. Hibernation is for the bears.”

Originally featured in Bella Grace Issue 9

“The woman who does not require validation from anyone is the most feared individual on the planet.”  — Mohadesa Najumi

Following Passion Wherever it Leads

In “Out of the Blue,” from Bella Grace Issue 9, Jennifer DeVille Catalano shares how a feeling of unfulfillment led her to give up the life she was familiar with.

In order to follow her dream of living a creative life, she undertook a huge move to a faraway place. But when she settled into her new home, she found that the journey was filled with more difficulties than she’d expected. In spite of it all, she created her own opportunities to connect with her love of photography, and in the end, that turned out to be “the catalyst that brought her back to herself.”

“It was art that saved me. My clearest, happiest moments on that island were spend behind a camera. Looking through the viewfinder enabled me to isolate bits of beauty on which to focus. …Doing so enabled me to develop a relationship with light. Part of that process was seeing the shadows in my midst, including my own. I had been fooling myself all along. An exotic postal code couldn’t cure my personal and professional discontent. Only I could.”

Originally featured in Bella Grace Issue 14

“Do your thing. Do it unapologetically. Don’t be discouraged by criticism. You probably already know what they’re going to say. Pay no mind to the fear of failure. It’s far more valuable than success. Take ownership, take chances, and have fun. And no matter what, don’t ever stop doing your thing.” — Asher Roth

What does passionate living look like to you? We’d love it if you shared your thoughts in a comment!

The post Say Yes: 3 Inspirational Women on Living Passionately first appeared on Bella Grace Magazine.

What form this piece is going to take, I don’t yet know.

A soothing whir fills the studio as I press the foot pedal and the wheel hums to life. I grab a sponge and squeeze a generous splash of water over my ball of clay. Then, I close my hands over it and feel it turning between my palms, rough, gritty, but smoothing as I go. The slick, rust-colored clay coats my fingers and nails.

As a beginner, the pieces I make are not perfect or particularly elaborate. Still, I thoroughly enjoy the experience of crafting with my own hands. The more I do, the more ways I realize that pottery parallels life, and that a special kind of  strength can be found in each piece of clay. Here are the lessons I’ve taken away from my time at the pottery wheel.

Let Go

When I attended my first pottery class, I was full of ideas for what kind of pieces I wanted to make and exactly how I wanted them to look. As I started to throw clay, however, I realized that my ambitions were significantly more advanced than my skills were.

It didn’t take long for me to see I needed to let go of my original ideas and simply follow where my work took me. This was a big weight off my shoulders. With no pressure to follow a predetermined plan, the process became more enjoyable and interesting.

After that, imperfections were no longer a big deal. Surprises happened. The first plate I made was originally intended to be a pot. Trying to make a tall cylinder, I ended up making a round bud vase with a dramatic tapered top. Often, the pieces did not turn out how I expected them to, but actually turned out better than I could have planned.

Lesson: In life, don’t get attached to a certain outcome. Go with the flow and enjoy the process.

Stay Centered and Be Patient

When you first put a wedge of raw clay onto the wheel, you have to “center” it before you can turn it into something beautiful. This means working the initial lump into a clean, symmetrical circle. If you skip this crucial step, it will be nearly impossible to make a proportional, balanced finished piece, since you’re continually turning it in a circle on the wheel.

Confession time: I usually lose my patience before I finish this process. As a result, a lot of my pieces turn out, well, lumpy. Whenever I look at someone else’s smooth, clean-looking bowls, I’m always amazed at the level of patience it takes to make something so simple. In the end, the patience is always worth it.

Lesson 1: Being centered is the best vantage point.

Lesson 2: Don’t cut corners, or it will be obvious later. Take the time to do things right the first time.

Imperfect is Perfect

There are as many different styles of pottery as there are artists, but when boiled down, most pieces fit within one of two categories: polished or rustic. With my lumpy bowls you can guess which category I love accidently belonging to.

But truly, there is something a rustic, handmade-looking pot has that a perfectly polished piece doesn’t. There’s a magical quality that emanates off something that you know was born from somebody’s bare hands. There’s a certain charm that a factory-perfect piece could never have. For instance, I love when you can see round arches in the bottom of a piece’s glaze, left by someone’s fingers as they simply grabbed their piece and dunked it into the glaze bucket. The fingerprints playfully hint back to the person who created it, connecting artist with creation.

Lesson: There’s inherent beauty in imperfection.

Walking Through Fire Makes You Stronger

After a piece is coated in glaze, it’s put in the kiln to be fired, which solidifies the piece and makes it waterproof. The kiln reaches unfathomably hot temperatures of almost 2,000° F. This process is what makes ceramic pieces so durable. Have you noticed how much pottery from ancient, bygone eras still exists today? I’ve read that the oldest known pieces are up to 20,000 years old. The kiln strengthens the raw material, allowing it to endure.

People are the same way. While arduous circumstances can damage us, they can also teach us lessons that make us stronger after we’ve healed.

Lesson: Tough situations or conditions have the potential to make us more durable.

Stability Gives Strength

If you shape a ball of clay one way, then try to shape it a different way, it will be resistant to change. Clay holds memories and wants to retain its original shape. This stability is what gives it strength.

Lesson: Don’t be swayed by the winds. Embrace your original wholeness and just be yourself.

What lessons have you learned while practicing an art or a craft? Is there something special your favorite creative activity has taught you? Share a comment below!

The post Pottery Wheel Wisdom first appeared on Bella Grace Magazine.

Some of my best ideas found me when I wasn’t looking.

A song on the radio, walks through glistening snow, and early morning coffee runs are a few places that have sparked beautiful ideas. I remember visiting a local cafe and looking in admiration at the intricate handwriting on the chalkboard menu.  A few moments later, I took a picture so I wouldn’t forget as the day passed by.

That night I ordered markers and bought a journal to begin the learning process. At that time it had been awhile since I felt inspired. Who knew ordering a Chai Latte would be the start of emerging from a creative rut?

A more recent example occurred after a long day of class. Eight hours to be exact. I dragged my feet to the car and turned on the radio to begin my trip back home. A song I hadn’t heard in years, on a radio station I rarely listen to, came on. In that moment, every ounce of stress disappeared and another idea was ignited. I knew I wasn’t the only one that experiences small yet reassuring moments like these so, when I got home, I depicted them in an illustration.

This became a reminder to myself that forcing creativity rarely produces genuine and heartwarming content. Sometimes the best thing to do is simply live in the moment. On your way to work, notice the architecture along the way, the sun rising, or paintings hanging in the office. You might be surprised at what you find that’s been there all along.

Creativity is everywhere. Sometimes we just need to readjust our focus. It’s easy to lose sight of everyday magic amongst our daily routines, but I promise it’s there.

As author Bruce Garrabrandt once said, “Creativity doesn’t wait for the perfect moment. It fashions its own perfect moments out of ordinary ones.”

Project Idea: Happiness in a Jar

Most nights before I go to bed, I reminisce over the wonderful experiences I’ve shared with loved ones. Rummaging through old photos brings me one step closer to feeling like I’m there all over again. I can almost feel the sand between my toes and the sun on my skin. While I can’t bottle up these memories to relive, I found the next best alternative.

A memory jar is a creative and fun way to jot down and seal any touching moment. A small act of kindness that typically becomes a fleeting memory can be saved. A warm smile, a door held open and a sweet compliment can be in your memory jar.

So now that we have the concept down, it’s time to start decorating!

I started with a Mason jar you can find at most craft stores. Next, you can use any type of paper for the label such as construction paper, scrapbook paper or newspaper. Washi tape is an affordable and cute way to customize the entire jar or as a simple detail along the edges. If you’re up for the challenge, fold your notes into small origami shapes. For a bit of sparkle, add fairy lights.

With the weather keeping most of us indoors, this could be a great activity to share with a group of friends. Have some snacks, drinks and movies ready to have a great night. Maybe this could even be the first memory you add to your jar.

Keep the jar in a space you’ll remember as a reminder to add a note. One night at the end of each month, get in your comfiest pajamas, brew some tea and open all of your notes. No matter what happened that month, this is a wonderful way to end it on a positive note.

Let your imagination wander and start creating!

Ariona is a starry-eyed lifestyle blogger, MBA student and self-proclaimed tea aficionado. She shares posts that inspire, educate and motivate her readers through their daily lives. Aside from school and interning, you can find her decorating, taking pictures and attemping DIYs from Pinterest. You can also find her on Instagram @creatorshaven.

What moments will you put in your memory jar? Share with us in the comments below.

The post Cultivate Creativity Wherever You Are + Project Idea first appeared on Bella Grace Magazine.

Before I’d play golden music on my Fender guitar, I’d admire the stained wood and strings. Every day was the same: the moment I returned home from school, I sought an hour of solitude with my guitar. I’d grasp the fret-board, pulling it free from the magenta wall, right where the tuning mechanisms scratched my wall silver. My guitar chords always emitted a prismatic sound when I struck them against the grain with my pick before I sifted through the printed chords of my favorite songs and chose the one I’d play, sometimes over and over.

Back in those days, I played a Taylor Swift song at least once a day, teaching myself guitar through watching videos of her songs again and again to get the tone just right. I’d read books to learn how to move my fingers to change the tone of music. I’d tune my guitar constantly until it sounded absolutely right.

Although I’ve always been a storyteller, playing my guitar was a detour that only opened up my imagination towards future writing. The songs I’d play on my guitar made daydreams flash across my mind, fairy-tales of white horses and girls dancing in country boots as they found the boys of their dreams. But I learned something about myself through those imaginings, and saw how the songs I wrote with my best friend revealed that what I really looked for wasn’t a boy to understand me at that volatile age. What I really wanted was to be a more confident person, to shed that which made me fear.

The truth sometimes appeared to me in bursts as we wrote about failed crushes, imagining we knew something about love. I think what we learned most back then was that a girl’s most difficult job is to find her voice. The problem may not have been with anyone else. It was us that needed to grow as people before we could ever experience the romance of the songs we’d grown up listening to.

“I think what we learned most back then was that a girl’s most difficult job is to find her voice.”

A few years ago, I heard the saying by George Bernard Shaw that “life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.” I did create myself by learning the lessons that made me a stronger person.

My guitar taught me to be confessional. Back then, my best qualities were an anchor sinking into a cloudy ocean, ever present but never seen by anyone. I sunk my feelings and dreams away so no one would ever see them. It took me a long time to realize that I wouldn’t live a blissful life if I could never be free.

Most importantly, I learned that I had a voice. It may have been the voice of a little girl who spoke quietly, but she grew up to be someone stronger than she ever thought she would be. My heart rose every time I played those songs. That made me see that sometimes the most meaningful instances in our life, the most powerful lessons we will ever learn, happen in moments of solitude.

Sometimes we need that confidence to boost us up, even as we grow up and move into life. We need those passions to anchor us to truth and show us who we are.

The guitar that once made its home in my bedroom now hides in its case. There once was a time when that would have been unthinkable. That doesn’t discourage me. It’s been several years since I’ve played, but a week doesn’t go by that I don’t think about playing that guitar again. Yet I know the guitar served its purpose in my life, and whenever I need to hear its shining strum again, I know where to find it.

Kayla Dean is a Vegas-based writer who reports about arts and entertainment. She also interviews writers and blogs about living a creative life on kayladean.com. Find her on Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest @kayladeanwrites.

The post Finding My Voice Through My Guitar first appeared on Bella Grace Magazine.