What's been blooming at MyLittleFe this May

May 1, 2026

There has been a lot on my mind lately, and I wanted to share a bit of it with you.

Last month, while I was in Arizona, I visited Painted Tree Boutiques. I remember walking through the aisles and thinking how fascinating it was as a model for independent artists. A space where makers could have a physical presence without the full weight of running their own storefront.

Not long after, in mid-April, they announced a nationwide shutdown.

It was a reminder that even spaces built to support creativity are not always as stable as they seem. For many artists, places like that are more than just retail. They are visibility, opportunity, and a way to be seen.

But it also reminded me of something else. The model may shift. The space may change. But the need for what artists create does not go away.

That stayed with me and got me thinking about what I've learned and am still learning about staying resilient. It is also a natural progression into this month's Mother's Day reflection.

🪻MOTHER'S DAY REFLECTIONS

With Mother's Day coming up, I found myself thinking about my own beginnings and the small lessons that have stayed with me over time, especially from my mom.

Lessons I learned from her shaped how I think about money, independence, and being resourceful. I remember one Mother's Day when I did not have enough money to buy a gift, so I made one instead using simple materials I had on hand.

It reminded me that sometimes the most meaningful things we give are not bought. They are created, remembered, and shared.

That thought stayed with me and brought me back to something my mom taught me a long time ago: how the things we make, even in small ways, can carry more meaning than we realize.

Read: Mother's Day Reflections: The Lessons That Stay With Us

🎨 ART TIP: MAKE YOUR OWN BOOKMARKS

This month's art tip came from that same place.

I put together a "How To" video on making your own bookmarks using materials you may already have or can find easily without spending much. It is a small project, and something you can create yourself, whether it is for you, your mom or for someone you care about.

Watch: Art Tip # 3: Make Your Own Bookmarks

You do have to print your own design. If you would rather not make one from scratch, I also created a printable version that you can use or share in your own way.

Explore: Printable Bookmark

If you are looking for something already made for Mother's Day, I gathered a few thoughtful options here.

Browse: Thoughtful Gifts for Mom

🙋🏽♀️ WHERE TO FIND FE NEXT

I recently wrapped up the Spring Fling Market and will be at a few more events in May, along with one in June. If you happen to be nearby, I would love to see you.

See me here: Upcoming In-person events

🌿 WHAT'S BEEN BLOOMING

Lately, I have been more intentional about how I share my work. Not just focusing on creating something that looks nice, but thinking about how people discover it and how it fits into their everyday lives.

I have also started exploring TikTok (Yikes!) as another way to share my work. Still learning, but it is part of the process.

One of the first pieces I added there are my stickers. They are small, easy pieces you can use every day. Shipping is free.

Browse the sticker collection

As I continue working on MyLittleFe, I find myself focusing more on creating pieces that can be used, kept, or shared. Not just something to hang, but something to live with.

Thank you for being here and for taking the time to read.

With intention,

Marife
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