Emotional Highs

There’s something incredibly satisfying about seeing an idea evolve from a simple sketch to a final product. The design itself comes from my uncommon animals kids book and my fascination with the surreal and the whimsical—a flying fish soaring through a sky of clouds, defying the expectations of what a fish, or any creature for that matter, should do. This blend of imagination and unexpected elements is what makes this piece special to me.

The vibrant green of the fish against the backdrop of colorful, yet muted, clouds adds a touch of playfulness that I hope brings a smile to anyone who wears it. It’s a reminder that creativity has no bounds, that we can always find ways to bring a little magic into our everyday lives, even if it’s through something as simple as a T-shirt.

What brings a tear of joy to your eye?

While my art brings me immense joy, there’s something else in my life that consistently brings a tear to my eye—my kids. Watching them grow, learn new things, and come up with their own creative ideas is nothing short of magical. These moments of seeing them evolve, of witnessing their minds work in ways that surprise and delight me, are what make all the challenges of parenting worthwhile.

There are times when the demands of life and work can feel overwhelming, but then there are those moments—like when they proudly show me a drawing they’ve made, or when they figure out something new on their own—that bring tears of joy to my eyes. It’s in these instances that I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the privilege of being their parent, of guiding them through life, and of watching them become their own little people with big ideas.

So, as soppy as it may sound, it’s the little moments with my kids that truly make me emotional. They remind me of the purest forms of creativity and joy, and for that, I am eternally thankful.