Two weeks ago I broke my toe, putting a sudden pause on running for the next 5 weeks, which I am totally bummed about. I didn’t break my toe running, but in a household freak accident. My youngest daughter and I were walking to the car when she skipped in front of me and my right foot suddenly slammed into her ankle. It was so painful! I had to take a few minutes to sit in the pain before I could move. I limped back to the house from the car and when I reached the door, I couldn’t walk! I was in pain for hours and literally had to hop around for the next two days, it was terrible lol.

I figured I just sprained my toe, so almost two weeks went on. It felt like it was getting slightly better, however after a long walk, it hurt again. I decided it was time to get an X-ray. To my surprise the PA told me it was broken. I’m in my 30s and have never broken a bone in my life before! I have sprained an ankle and wrist but that’s it.

While being forced to slow down physical activity has been frustrating, I realize it has turned into an unexpected gift as I’ve wanted to open this art shop for a long time. Being forced off my feet has created the exact space and stillness I need to finally bring my online art shop to life. So this art shop will manifest while my bone is healing.

The past year has been a heavy season of transition for me. Between being a stay-at-home mom and moving through the deep grief of losing my beloved mom last summer, much of my energy has been focused inward, holding space for my family and navigating life’s changes. It’s been the worst year of my life honestly. My mom was one of my best friends and to lose someone you love so much has truly been heartbreaking. The waves of grief ran very deep and I wasn’t able to paint or do that much.

Thankfully the heavy grief broke months ago and I’m ready to start following my goals and passions. But let’s be honest, I will always cry for my mom and that is perfectly okay. I’ve seriously felt what it feels like to hit rock bottom.

This unexpected standstill feels like a gentle nudge to awaken and transform. Stepping into this creative endeavor is my way of moving forward, honoring where I have been, and creating a space to share my stories and artwork with you.

Just like the Orca I painted and titled “Reawakening,” I have been to the depths, I am ready to break the surface, breathe in again, and welcome the beauty that life has to offer.

Thank you for being here and supporting this new chapter.

♡ Felicia