Author: Ingrid Murray

  • Darkness Before the Dawn

    Darkness Before the Dawn

    Today is the winter solstice — the shortest day of the year, with more than 14 hours of darkness. After today, the light returns. These past few months have been a struggle. There are 4,000 miles of distance between me and my husband. I am waiting for a visa while…

  • Proof of Life

    Proof of Life

    As 2023 approaches, I am reflecting on the past and planning for the future. It’s my favorite part of winter: How did I grow? What do I hope for in the coming year? What is most important to me? In addition to my art journal, I primarily use three kinds…

  • Art Journal FAQs

    Art Journal FAQs

    What type of journal do you use? I make my own art journals. They measure about 4.5×6 inches (11×15 cm) and are filled with watercolor paper. They’re simpler to make than it looks; the only special materials you need are chipboard, an awl, and waxed linen thread. Check out the…

  • “To Feel” List

    “To Feel” List

    There are just 30 days left in 2022. This entire year has sped by; it feels like it should still be May or June. I am focusing on spending this final month as intentionally as I can. This means slowing down, paying attention, and being mindful. Somewhere on Instagram, I…

  • This, Too, Shall Pass

    This, Too, Shall Pass

    This time of year is so difficult. It’s dark, it’s cold, and the holidays bring all sorts of mixed feelings. On one hand, there’s the promise of joy and charity and togetherness, and on the other the reality of rampant consumerism and the unrelenting pressures of maintaining a veneer of…