6am train thoughts

‘Be mindful of where you are and where you need to go.’ - Train Conductor

I am writing to you from a 6 a.m. train from San Luis Obispo to LAX. This is my first leg of a multi-week trip back to the East Coast, eventually landing in my home state of Maine to visit family and friends. 

When I boarded the nearly empty train this morning, my instinct told me to sit on the east side. Because of the ocean views, the west would have been the obvious choice -- but lately, I’ve been spending so much time staring at the ocean, it would probably do me some good to stare at the hills. California really is so beautiful and expansive. It offers so much, no matter where you choose to sit. 

Over the years, I’ve had to get really creative on how I travel home. Maine is a huge part of me, and maintaining a connection there is what keeps me internally rooted. I’ve driven from Cayucos, California to Midcoast Maine twice — this last return journey marked my 7th time driving across the country. I would recommend driving across the U.S. at least once to everyone (you need at least 10 days to enjoy it) but 7 times is probably overkill -- at least for me, in a van, with a dog, and sometimes one other person. 

These last few journeys home I've made by plane — usually at least three before I’m finally touching Maine soil. This time, I’m trying to do a quick trip on the cheap — but not operating from a position of lack!! I’m just in a growing period ahhhhh!! — so my goal is to adapt in real-time. I’ve never been to Philly, but a direct flight was cheap ($150..?!) and I have a friend there. Boom. Done. 

From Philadelphia, a $45 train ride will get me into New York City where I’ll rent a cute room in an artsy boarding house in Brooklyn. Lately, I’ve been craving some big, East Coast city energy. I want to get shoved around a little bit, ya know? Order a sandwich. Do it with attitude. Wear some great outfits. 

(Tell me your spots, NYers -- I KNOW YOU'RE IN HERE.)

I love my life on the Central Coast because it’s slow. Nobody’s in a rush. I have plenty of time to ruminate and create. California has taught me how to chill the f*ck out, that is for sure. But inside, behind a few different versions of myself, there’s still a lil East Coast girly, jacked up on the details, scheming, hustling and clawing her way into the mix. (Luckily I’m from rural Maine, so I still keep it chilllll, babe.) 

My short time in NY will help calm the little monster inside of me, and include interesting meetings with people who, no matter what, will advance my career just by offering me their time. 

From there, it’s just one flight home, baby, where I can relax in the familiar surroundings of Portland, Maine — one of the last places I lived before Maven made a (welcomed) invasion on my life. 

My Current Trip Intentions (wip): 

Seek out the most authentic experiences. 

Be curious. 

Keep my heart open. 

Rely on public transit. 

Pack light.  

Move slow. 

With me, I have many different Maven prototypes. These slightly more oddball pieces tend to be the ones I keep for myself. Some are old...one I literally made last night while I was procrastinating.

What’s cool about the leather I use is that it feels so good to touch. There's a comfort to it, as if the leather holds all the experiences I’ve ever had and the knowledge I've gained from them. Maybe you feel the same? 

Plant Dyed Convert Bag and Artist Journal plus a little extra flare on my docs :)

While I’m gone, a rotation of amazing women will keep my Cayucos storefront open. We are bursting with pieces from my last collection, as well as the work of so many incredible and intriguing fellow artisans. And, the online store is always open. 24/7 baby!!!

If you’d like to support me on my journey home, here are some small ways to do so that would make a big difference to me. 

Poor Boy Card Slip Wallets (updated with new colors, $40)

Tassel Key Clips (also updated with new colors, $35, cooler than a carabiner)

Front Pocket Bifold Wallet (get one for your dad? $95)

Gift Card (you can get one in any amount)

Just share my work with someone!

And, fyi, I was able to update a few sold out pieces from my latest Slow Release collection. So if a design sold out that you loved, something similar may now be available. Go check!

talk soon,