Today is Memorial Day—a day that holds deep meaning for so many. It’s a day of remembering and honoring not only those who gave everything in service to our country but those who we were closest to. But beyond the flag-lined streets and backyard barbecues, it’s also a quiet invitation to pause. To reflect. To be grateful. And maybe, just maybe—to be brave in our own small ways.
As I sit here with my iced coffee and paint-stained pajamas, I can’t help but think about how courage comes in many forms. The courage to fight for freedom. The courage to speak up. And yes, even the courage to create. I cannot help but remember my sister, her strength and courage and her devotion to our family. I honor my sister's memory every day by showing up to share my passion for art with others as I encourage others to create and live with confidence.
Grab one of my complete art kits to help you get started.
Now, I’m not saying painting a flower on canvas is the same as storming the beaches of Normandy. But I am saying that bravery is often needed in the quietest moments—like picking up a paintbrush after decades of telling yourself you're “not artistic.” Or sitting down to create something just for the joy of it, without worrying about whether it’s “good enough.” or by "carrying the burden of illness on your own shoulders for months so as not to worry others." This is what my sister did for months. In the end, she had a terminal and fatal disease, CJD. Learn more at the CJD Foundation.
Nothing would have helped her. By the time we knew what was wrong, she was too ill to understand. Her death led me to pick up my paint brushes again. I did it, not because I thought I was some great artist or that I had talent. I picked my paint brushes back up to help me cope with my grief. As I painted and grieved, I was drawn to share my healing and my art with others. This was the kind of courage I am talking about. That’s the kind of confidence I want to help others find through creativity. The courage to use art to heal and to be gain confidence to share it with others. Not for sale or for a museum, but for yourself.
So on this Memorial Day, I want to honor my sister, the bold and the brave, not just in uniform, but in everyday life. The mom who carves out 20 minutes to doodle after the kids go to bed. The empty nester trying junk journaling for the first time. The woman recovering from loss who finds healing in watercolors. The man who never thought he’d enjoy crafting—but ends up loving it.
To me, that’s what art is all about. It’s about showing up, even when you’re unsure. It’s about honoring your life, your story, your voice.
So if you’re feeling a little unsure or stuck creatively today, I want to offer this gentle reminder:
You don’t have to wait for permission. You already have it.
You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to begin.
And you don’t have to go it alone. That’s why I’m here.
Whether you’re painting flags with the kids, creating a patriotic junk journal spread, or simply lighting a candle in remembrance and making something quietly from the heart—know that your creativity matters. Your courage to try again matters. And your story deserves to be expressed.
Do you need some inspiration? Head over to my Youtube Channel for dozens of beginner step by step art videos! 
Let this Memorial Day be not just a day of remembrance, but also a day of creative bravery. One small act of art at a time.
With love and paint-splattered gratitude,
💛 Teresa
P.S. If you need a little creative nudge, here’s a simple prompt to honor today:
🎨 Create a page, tag, or canvas using red, white, and blue. Add one word that represents what freedom or bravery means to you.
Tag me on social media @TeresasSpotForArt—I’d love to see what you create.
