Joy - Artist

10/13/2026

Holiday Craft event — get a jump on the season.

10/10/2026

I know it’s only October, but I’m already gearing up for the holidays!

My personalized map balloon house artwork has been one of my most popular Etsy items, especially as a gift for someone special.

Each balloon is handmade using authentic maps of places that mean something to you — where you met, got married, traveled, or made memories together.

If you’re thinking about ordering one as a Christmas gift this year, now is a great time to get started. Custom orders take time, and I’d rather you plan ahead than scramble in December!

Available in my Etsy shop:
https://etsy.me/47eVyWh

This Maps item by aWanderingPalette has 1235 favorites from Etsy shoppers. Ships from Canton, OH. Listed on Oct 6, 2026

10/08/2026

After decades as a photographer, I watched cameras become more accessible while the value of experience behind them became harder to explain. Now, as I learn to paint, I’m being reminded of something photography taught me years ago: the tools can help us create, but developing the skill still takes practice, mistakes, patience, and time.

After decades as a professional photographer, I’m learning to paint and rediscovering how practice, experience, mistakes, and time shape every creative skill.