FOREWORD

WE WERE SITTING IN A CIRCLE,

gathered in a living room, just as we did every other Wednesday. Each of us took turns sharing about our weeks, how the kids were driving us mad, our work was overwhelming, and how we were eager to find that magical, and let’s be real, unattainable notion of balance, when Sarah mentioned that she wanted to start painting again.

I remember a flutter in my soul. Something happens inside me when a woman calls upon the courage to say out loud that they are ready to invest in their own creative lives. I get a rush of excitement and I can’t help busting out my pom-poms to cheer them on. It’s a scary and vulnerable task and I consider it an absolute honor that I got to be in the room and then subsequently follow along as Sarah followed her curiosity, passion, and talent to find her creative soul.

From the very beginning Sarah has shared her artistic journey for the purpose of inspiring others in their own creative pursuits. It’s never just been about her own desire to paint to satisfy her creativity. For Sarah, it’s always been about pursuing painting and bringing others into that process. Every image she shares, every post, every line she utters in her classes is created with the hope of inspiring others. And this book you hold in your hands is no different.

Sarah intimately knows how hard it is to carve out time for your creativity. When she courageously told us that she was going to start painting again she was a mother to one very young girl and pregnant with another. She had to carve out a few minutes here and there to appease her creative desires. Sarah persevered and we all got to witness magic. Through the process she continually inspired each one of us to pursue a relationship with our creativity no matter what obstacles stand in our way.

This book is your personal invitation from Sarah to become more intimately acquainted with your creativity. Sarah’s voice is gentle and inviting as she reminds you that it’s not about the tools, supplies and money needed to invest in the craft, but it’s simply the belief that you are worth it. Sarah makes the art of watercolor approachable and deeply enjoyable. Whether you are a beginner or you’ve been painting for years I have no doubt that this book will bring a much-needed boost of inspiration and creative jolt to your artistic endeavor. 

—ASHLEY RODRIGUEZ James Beard Award Finalist Author of Date Night In and Let's Stay In Host of award-winning video series Kitchen Unnecessary