July 18, 2025

Hello Reader,

This summer’s been full — of trailhead moments, big creative energy, and a lot of behind-the-scenes work. I just wrapped up my blog series Make Your Own Map, a candid look at what it really takes to carve out a creative career in the outdoor space — especially if your path looks a little different.

Whether you’re a guide-turned-creative or a desk-job-escapee (like me!), I hope this series helped you feel a little more grounded — or at least less alone.

Missed a post? You can catch the whole Make Your Own Map series here:
• Welcome to the Trailhead – My story & why I’m sharing it
• Pick Your Path – How to niche down without boxing yourself in
• Build Your Basecamp – Trust, communication & support systems
• Trail Markers – How to reach out (without feeling weird about it)
• Carry the Right Tools – Legal, financial & emotional prep
• You’re Not Lost – Learning as you go & avoiding burnout

Check out the Full Series Here

🎨 In the Studio:
I recently wrapped up Illustrating from Photos, a botanical art class through the School of Botanical Art & Illustration. My final piece was a simple contour pen drawing of some Rocky Mountain Columbines. I also did a value study on Procreate which was something different! I’m excited to keep exploring it in other styles: stipple, colored pencil, and traditional graphite values. (You can see more of my illustrations on Instagram.)

📝 In the Office:
June and July were packed with proposal writing — some solo, some with fantastic teams. I’ve been thinking a lot about how proposals (even the ones that don’t land) are really just acts of showing up. They’re a way of saying: I’m here, this is what I care about, and here’s how I can help. Every “no” still moves things forward.

Recent Updates

Featured Post: You're Not Lost

We don’t build big ideas alone. This final post is about navigating uncertainty, learning as you go, and trusting yourself (and others) to show up. It’s part pep talk, part practical guide.

Read More

I Love S'Mores & The Great Outdoors - Youth shirt

I got to see this tee in the wild last weekend — my niece wore her pink version proudly while I was visiting her in Georgia. 🩷 This fun design comes in youth and adult sizes, plus stickers, water bottles, and more.

Shop Now

Let's stay connected!

Design Instagram — for behind-the-scenes peeks & design inspiration
Art Instagram — to see my progress making botanical art

Thanks so much for reading.
See you on the trail — Rebecca