Now What?

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Lauren Bartleson
May 6, 2026, afternoon

Happy May! I did a DIY creative retreat last week and went into it with a solid perspective that I'd be writing a non-fiction and walked away with a complete storyboard for a novel. So what's working: letting my instincts guide, giving myself permission to be a beginner (I tried watercolor), time with loved ones, staying near the beach, listening to the seagulls, reminding myself that home doesn't have to be just one place or person, eating until I'm full, and pinwheels (the snack/dessert). Love these opportunities to reflect - thank you, Nic!