A Year of Transformation, Part 1

I knew 2020 would be full of transformation. But I never could have predicted the kind of change headed my way, and how this change would affect my creativity.

Earlier this year, I was living in a gorgeous condo with the most incredible 240° views of Austin, Texas. As a moon child, I relished the view of the moon rising over the bright lights of the ever-changing skyline each night. Local wildlife explored the nearby nature preserve under the warm rising sun each morning. 

I loved my home, nestled in a wonderful spot overlooking the Texas hill country. But it was time for something totally new—so I sold my condo, said goodbye to the view, and prepared for a total transformation. 

Why? First of all, I needed more space. I especially needed more space in the garden, and I wanted the freedom to do what I wanted with it.

I’m ready to grow my own herbs, vegetables, fruits—whatever my heart desires. I’m ready to plant what I want, when I want, where I want without any HOA telling me what I can and cannot do. 

At the end of the day, I needed four things to make me happy in a new home: a view, a pool, a place where I could create, and somewhere nearby to see live music. 

After an exhaustive search, I found the perfect place. It’s a beautiful house on a bluff two acres high that overlooks the hill country, with a great pool in the backyard and a fantastic space that I am converting into an art studio. Mercer Street Dancehall is less than a mile away, so I can get my fill of live music and dancing down the block. 

With that, my address became Driftwood, Texas—goodbye, Austin! But the work had just begun. 

The house is in a great location and has excellent bones, but I still needed to make it my own. So work began on a major renovation project. 

Renovations went on and on…3 months went by. My excitement about making the house my own is starting to fade. I’m getting more impatient for everything to be done. I’m starting to feel like I don’t even want this beautiful home anymore. I try to ignore the feeling. 

Then 6 months went by. My excitement has turned into impatience and fatigue. I’m starting to forget why I connected with this house in the first place. Living in a small apartment with no view, I miss the city lights; they are only minutes away, but they feel so much further. 

But then COVID-19 changed everything—starting with my perspective. 

Check out the blog for the conclusion of the story, coming soon! And in the meantime, check out the shop to see some of my latest work.