Girls’ trips for the Van Cleave ladies are a bit different. We tend to lean hard toward the adventurous remote locations rather than an all inclusive resort. While we do love a frosty tiki drink beachside, we’ve grown up in a family that “unwound” from the hectic modern world around a campfire and favorite fishing hole. So, it’s not surprising that our 2026 girls’ trip was to a faraway fly-fishing lodge clinging to the Cisnes River in Chile by the name of La Posada de Los Farios. And what a glorious retreat from our daily lives it was, thanks to the warm-hearted people, expansive wilderness, and beasty fish.

I’m a curious soul by default. Perhaps that is why I’ve been drawn to the career paths where I can ask a ton of questions under the guise of the role (recovering recruiter here). While at this summer’s art fairs, my natural inquisitive nature bubbled up as I met the individuals who connected with my artwork. I couldn’t help myself from asking, “What draws you to this piece?” “Why this one in particular?” “Where will this piece live in your space?” I just had to know. If I came across a bit too strong, I apologize, but I’m still mesmerized by the spark of magic in seeing my artwork embraced by someone out there in the real world. It’s wild!

Like I collect views for future art inspiration, I collect words. I love a good quote, banger of a poem, or world pivoting book. For over two decades, my journals have housed this collection. I lean on them in times of change or turmoil to pick me up. We all can use a bit of inspiration. I think it’s time to bust out these tidbits and share them with you all. May you find them helpful too.

Is the iconic Crystal Mill overdone? Not when you paint it your way. Take a wild 4x4 ride down Colorado's rugged backroads into Marble's history, and get a look at a new pink-and-purple-hued painting that brings a touch of Shangri-La magic to an old mining gem.

You can thank the Bob’s in my life for leading me towards painting landscapes. It was the influence of two terribly awkward, but passionate painters named Bob that peaked my interest in capturing the wild with a paintbrush.

And so it begins…. My journey into the world of art professionally. My 17 year old soul would have said, “But of course, you’d sell your paintings, duh.” Two decades later, here I am. Sharing my artwork with the world hoping it brings as much joy to others as it does to me to create it. Come along on this adventure with me. I’m not sure what bends are up ahead in the river, but damn it’s worth finding out. We only have this one precious life, it’s time to explore this path.