Merry Christmas!
As the year draws to a close, I want to share my heartfelt thanks for your continued support! Sharing ideas, processes, paintings, and tools of the trade with you brings me joy. I sincerely hope it’s deepened an understanding of your worth as an artist or collector.
This year we lived our family motto of “work hard, play hard!” It started with our oldest, Owen, breaking both wrists mountain biking. He healed well just in time for the mountain bike season and made the podium not once, but twice!
Our daughter, Aubrey, is a proud violist and a new member of the esteemed Boise Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, showcasing a radiant smile thanks to her new braces!
Travis excels academically, blowing past his growth goals while trying to score countless soccer goals at recess!
Finally, when not playing hard, Hyrum works hard as a leading bankruptcy attorney in the Treasure Valley earring over 500 5-star Google Reviews!
We wish you a blessed Christmas filled with the love of our Savior, Jesus Christ. May His light shine brightly in your home and bring joy and peace to your hearts.
Last-Minute Gift Ideas for the Artist in Your Life
Looking for the perfect last-minute gift or stocking stuffer?
Here are 6 of my favorite recommendations:
My go-to for paper pad for painting with gouache. I love the feel of Arches Cold Pressed Watercolor Paper and highly recommend it!
These are my favorite drawing pencils. They’re durable, mechanical, have a great weight. I have these everywhere — in my studio, plein air packs, and gouache set up!
I love that I can use these sketchbooks with pencils, pens, or even gouache & oil. They are incredibly versatile and a great size for the studio or to keep in your car. It’s a lovely, heavy weight.
Whether you’re taking photos of your art, filming workshops, or getting some behind-the-scenes footage for marketing your art, a tripod like this one is key. I especially appreciate this one for its small size - it’s easy to pack in my plein air bag.
Every artist I know needs more organization tools like this one! This is a really durable door option, and the trays hold a lot of supplies. Plus, they’re really easy to assemble.
An easy way to get the most out of your tubes of paint. This is a little tool that goes a long way!
Life is full and good. Rather than describing it as "busy," my new mantra for 2026 is life is intense. For me, "intense" embraces intention, purpose, and the drive to rise to daily challenges while prioritizing what truly matters.
I feel immense gratitude for 2025 and look forward to an intentional, inspiring 2026!
Allie
