Three Reasons I’m Looking Forward to FLOURISH

Lately, I’ve been talking a lot about how important it is to gather with others—especially when so many of us are not feeling okay in our current environment. Every day, I see or hear something that makes me uneasy, whether it’s the news, politics, or the growing sense of division in our world. The list feels endless, and overwhelming at times.

So what can I do as an individual? I’ve learned that the best advice is to pick one thing and focus on it. For me, that means supporting a couple of nature conservation groups that are protecting our environment. But another piece of advice I’ve found just as valuable is this: don’t face it all alone. We need community now more than ever.

That’s why I’m so looking forward to our Flourish Gatherings. Here are my three big reasons:

1. Space to Breathe

I spend so much of my time in “go” mode—balancing the business side of my art, teaching, family commitments, and my own creative practice. Taking time to slow down and breathe often falls to the bottom of the list. Flourish is a chance to pause, care for myself, and refocus on what really matters.

2. Learning from Angela

One of the gifts of Flourish is that I get to be led by my friend Angela Houk. Angela is a multidisciplinary artist and teacher who creates welcoming spaces for creativity, learning, and community through her nonprofit, New Joy Arts. Every class I’ve taken with her has left me feeling encouraged, uplifted, and inspired. I’m grateful she took this little idea of mine and ran with it!

3. Community Connection

I’m not your typical introverted artist—I thrive on being with people. But even if you are introverted, I encourage you to come. Flourish is about creating a safe, intentional space where we can remember we’re not alone, and where care and creativity flow freely.

 Join us next week!
We’ll gather for thoughtful discussion, encouraging community, and creative discovery as we explore how to live more meaningful, connected lives. Each month, these creative salon gatherings will focus on an aspect of daily life and how we can engage it with purpose.

This month’s theme: “Reclaim Your Calm.”
Together we’ll discover how brain science, creative practice, and community can help us reconnect in this climate of disconnection and anxiety.

Thursday, August 28 | 7–9 p.m.
Horizon Church, Roseville (generously hosting us—it’s a community gathering, not a religious one!)
$28 per person | $46 for two
Includes small bites, beverages & materials.
[Register Here]

Scholarships are always available—please don’t let cost keep you away. Last-minute attendees are welcome too!

If you have questions, feel free to reach out to Angela at newjoy@mac.com.

Let’s flourish together.