Creation Care Mom

I’m on summer break right now, at least from my school job, mothering never ends!

So of course this was the perfect time to begin working on a new project.

For a long time, I’ve wanted to do something with the large amount of photos that I’ve taken during my many adventures. They aren’t all great quality and they aren’t all designed for others. But I know that even with little training and no professional camera, I’ve taken some gem photos over the years.

Before kids and settling down, I’d traveled to many national parks, and with all the time I’ve spent in Yellowstone, I’ve got geysers and waterfalls aplenty. I also love photographing flowers, sunsets, and have some weird affection for bridges. I’ve got photos from studying abroad in Costa Rica and the red rocks and arches of southern Utah.

So I’m finally doing something with them.

I chose to open an Etsy store. I’m creating cross-stitch patterns from my original nature photography, transforming real flowers, landscapes, and natural wonders into beautiful stitching projects. It’s an effort of love, but also hopefully one day with provide side income to support my family going on more adventures.

You can find my store here: https://naturetoneedle.etsy.com

And if you are going to make a purchase you can save 15% with this link: https://naturetoneedle.etsy.com?coupon=SAVE15

With extra time during the summer, I am hoping to add one listing a week until school picks up again. By Labor Day weekend, I’m hoping to have 10-12 total finished pieces. Of course I’ll continue to add as time allows, but I recognize that going back to work will limit how much I can work on my side gig.

On other life notes, I’m spending more time at Jazzercise and out on the hiking trails while I can, pepping our new home to be ready to move in July, and preparing to celebrate my 10 year anniversary tomorrow. I’m spending a lot of time in reflection and also dreaming. I never could have predicted all that I’ve walked through, and yet, I’m beginning to dream of what the next 20-30yrs could be. I think I’m going to be going back to school to pursue a career that better aligns with my outdoor nature and my conservation spirit. So keep me in your prayers as I seek what my next life steps are.

Many Thanks,

Arwyn