January 2026: Winter Markets, Staying Warm, and A Rebuild

We are 16–20 inches deep over here, depending on where the wind has been blowing. I still have candles in the window because, hello glow—and also, how can you not light a candle these days? Let’s take a clear-eyed look at the moment we’re in. For a lot of people, this moment isn’t new. And it’s not ok. Minneapolis is on my mind. Our neighbors, our friends, our helpers—the people who make our towns run—they’re on my mind. How are you, neighbor? Still, the clock chimes, the snow falls, the family must be fed, and bedtime stories must be told.

On the Table This Week

The Norwegian Protest Hat circa 1940s: I’m keeping my hands nimble by drawing and knitting. I’ve downloaded a pattern for a Norwegian-style red cap—the kind that became a symbol of resistance during Norway’s WWII occupation. By 1942, even red “nisse” (think Santa-style) hats were banned because the color had become a signal. That detail struck me. I’ve had trouble saying how I feel lately without flattening it into bumper-sticker language. I like this idea because when you can’t say everything out loud, you can still find ways to be understood.  

New Art: This month has largely been focused on healing from an intense flare. I’ve tried to keep sketching and drawing to work those muscles—mostly small sketches, things I can finish in one sitting. Themes floating around (not in color yet): a few Valentines, winter hats, candles, sourdough, warm beverages, food sharing, phone calls, and letters and postcards.

I’ve also been making lots of sourdough. It’s such a great hobby for folks with dynamic disabilities because it requires a little work mixed in with a lot of rest time.  

Natick Farmers Market: Natick Farmers Market (Winter) — Saturday, Jan 31 + Saturday, Mar 7 | 9am–1pm | Common Street Spiritual Center (2 floors!). I’ll be downstairs with Kindling Season, Bright Little World prints, and a few originals + small winter gifts to warm up your spaces. I will have some all-ages Valentine's activities, too!  The best thing about an in-person market like this is the people.  Please stop in, pull up a chair and say hello!

Tips for Visiting the Market: Parking tip: if street spots are gone, there’s a free Saturday lot by Town Hall. Earlier this season I completely missed the downstairs level due to hunger and distraction. Don’t miss it! The word on the street is that the Perfect Empanada will be upstairs, while Birchtree, Mama O’s, and some sweet treats will be downstairs. I can’t wait to see who else is there.

I now have a market shirt!

Work/Art/Life and Sustainability: I’m working on a more sustainable balance. Between creativity, skill-building, blog writing, print prep, shop/market updates, Instagram, health and mobility, rest, and parenting… phew. Who is making dinner? 😂

Last month’s flare made it clear: the way I was doing this wasn’t sustainable. My body and my disability are non-negotiables. So I’m rebuilding my systems, and my posting/newsletter rhythm may wobble a bit while I do. If you’re rebuilding too: are you craving more rest, more structure, or more play right now?

P.S. I’m looking for farmers market support volunteers—reach out if you’re interested!

What I’m Listening to

I was the lucky recipient of a record player this Christmas, and I forgot how good that ritual feels. My collection is a baby one, but I’m excited to hit the thrift stores and Record Day. My sister and I did a quick Newbury Comics flip-through last weekend. On the player right now: Prince, Purple Rain. Podcasts in my ear while working: Creative Pep-Talk and Learn to Paint.

What I’m reading

My usual mix of fiction and non-fiction plus Jenn Prinzing’s Substack post about Wales and its seven well-being goals. She shared an example I can’t stop thinking about: in 2021, a proposed highway got put through the “does this actually improve well-being for people now and in the future?” test—and when it couldn’t make the case, Wales froze most new road-building projects pending a review and shifted investment toward public transit and walking/bike routes instead. Now, that’s decent.

P.P.S. Are you on Substack? If I moved my writing there, would you follow?

Wishing you warmth, sustainability, and connection.