Let me set the scene for you: I’m sitting at the kitchen table, juggling a million things (as always), when my son runs up to me, phone in hand, and says, “Funpa (what the kids call my dad) wants me to ask you something.”
Now, my dad—bless him—is a man of wisdom, kindness, and those small, thoughtful gestures that remind you life is about more than just to-do lists. Over the phone, he’s coaching my son to ask me something he’s clearly reluctant to say out loud.
I’ve been on the receiving end of these coaching calls for years, but my eyebrows still raise.
After some encouragement, my son finally blurts out, “How can I be a blessing to you today?”
Cue my heart melting.
But before I can even say, “Well, isn’t that the sweetest thing?” he sighs dramatically and adds, “Do I have to?”
And there it was: the perfect combination of heartfelt and hilarious. Kids have a way of keeping us humble, don’t they?
That little moment got me thinking about art—and life. The truth is, being a blessing to someone (or yourself!) doesn’t have to be a grand, sweeping gesture. It can be something simple, like sharing a kind word, taking a moment to breathe, or, in the case of art, choosing one small thing to create that adds joy to your day.
Art Tip of the Week: Start Small, Stay Joyful
When life feels overwhelming, and the idea of starting a big project makes you want to hide under a pile of blankets, focus on something small. Instead of tackling a huge watercolor landscape, paint a single flower. Or better yet, just play with a new color palette and see where it takes you.
I’m actually using this strategy since my brain is in “spring cleaning mode” but literally no other part of me is — so one drawer? Awesome. Still counts. Small wins.
The beauty of art is that even the tiniest strokes can bring a sense of accomplishment. You don’t have to create a masterpiece to feel the joy of creating. So this week, try something bite-sized—and let it be a blessing to you.
What about you? What’s one small way you’ve been a blessing to yourself (or someone else) this week? Hit reply—I’d love to hear your story.
P.S. Don’t forget: portraits are still on sale (you’re helping our family pay for an insane plumbing adventure we did NOT expect… Home ownership, am I right?!) SOoOoOooO TrEaT YoUrSeLf or someone else to something special!
ICYMI
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Thanks for reading today's edition of the Stories I Only Tell My Friends newsletter! & if you're new here—hi! I'm Courtney, fine artist and live wedding painter, honored to paint beautiful celebrations around the 🌎. I'd love for you to stick around and subscribe to keep reading one art tip, once a week. :)