Sorry about the blank spot in last week’s blog email. I’ve switched over to Squarespace which has RSS integration with Mailchimp but it seems that there may have been a glitch or I didn’t set it up right. Unfortunately, as far as I can tell, the only way to find out if I fixed the problem is to wait and see if this one comes through the way it should. If it doesn’t, I’ve created a block on the template instructing you to click through to my website and read the post there. In the meantime I hope you’ll bear with me through this learning curve. It’s all part of the exciting journey of creating the new and improved website!
Even though there are still a few things to add and I’m working out some glitches, I just can’t wait to show you the new website design! I’ve moved over from WordPress to Squarespace on the advice of a web-savvy client and I’m really excited about the design capabilities, as you will probably guess when you have a look around.
When I was thinking about how the new website should look, I was sure that I wanted the viewer to instantly get a sense of who I am (or WYSIWYG), as soon as they land on the homepage. As you will see, I’ve tried to use as many of my personal photographs as possible and any that are not mine will soon be replaced by new shots I’ll be taking as well as those from my personal archive. My vision for the website is that it will serve as a platform for me to explore and share my creativity. Not only is it a way for people to find out what I “do” but it is also a way for them to get to know who I am.
On the homepage, I chose a photo of myself from when I was 4 years old. I came upon this photo recently when I was participating in Brené Brown’s “Gifts Of Imperfection” e-course. One of the assignments in the course was to find a shot that we felt showed our authentic self. I knew I had dozens of photo albums that my mom had started the year she became pregnant with me and I had not been through them in years. It was a bittersweet exercise to go through the photos that chronicled my life until I was about 7 or 8 years old. From the lot, I picked about 5 or 6 that I felt showed my true spirit… which reminds me of the Jackson Browne song, Fountain of Sorrow.
So, I chose one photo to use for my e-course Art Journal and the one, below, for my homepage. I decided on this one because I often sit like this when I’m in a session (minus the bikini… and the beach ball has been replaced with a small pillow) but, more importantly, I don’t ever want to forget that, in addition to being a therapist, mentor, mom, etc.. I am also a human being, a bright spirit and a vulnerable girl who needs and deserves as much love, kindness and nurturing as anyone else. I think this is so often overlooked but essential to acknowledge, especially for those who are searching for someone to help guide them on their journey.
As for the general design of the website, you’ll see I chose fonts that feel personal, like handwriting. I’m still playing around with it (it’s a lot of work because there are so many options) but I’m happy with it so far. I really like the font I’ve used for my name on the header. For some reason, it reminds me of summer camp. It’s fun and casual but it’s still polished. That’s me, to a tee, don’tcha think?
Another thing that I wanted the website to reflect is simplicity and spaciousness. In my personal life, I have come to appreciate how important it is not to complicate things with unnecessary “clutter”. We need to remember that, in order for the new and fresh and vital to flow in, we must create space by allowing what longer serves us to flow out … in our minds, in our hearts, in our relationships and yes, even in our closets. Especially in our closets!
I really hope you will browse the site and give me your feedback. I’d love to hear your honest opinions of how it made you feel as well as other practical stuff, too. Let me know if there is anything you’d like to see added or anything you find missing, superfluous, cumbersome or confusing.
I really do appreciate your support :)
You’ll be getting this (hopefully) just after Valentine’s Day, so I hope you all spend it exactly the way you want to!
All blessings to you!
