I’ve been meaning to write about my time at Erik’s Ranch, but I think I needed a little space to process it first. It’s been a week now, and I’m still feeling the impact of it—in my art, in my energy, and in how I’m showing up for myself. This trip was exactly what my heart needed.
Taking a Chance on the Unknown
I didn’t go into this retreat with high expectations. Honestly, I couldn’t find much information about it, but something in me just said go. So, I took a gamble, drove seven hours and four mountain passes, and hoped for the best.
Sometimes, the best things happen when we just say yes.
What is Erik’s Ranch?
For those who haven’t heard of it, Erik’s Ranch is an incredible nonprofit in Montana that provides independent living and job opportunities for young adults with autism. Set against a backdrop of towering mountains and endless sky, it’s the kind of place that makes you pause and appreciate the stillness.
It was the perfect setting for a reset.
Waking Up to the Glow
Each morning, I woke up to the Absaroka Mountains glowing in the sunrise. I don’t mean just looking pretty—I mean radiating.
I’d sit with my coffee, watching the light shift over the peaks, letting that stillness settle in before jumping into the day. It was a moment of pure presence—the kind I didn’t realize I’d been missing.
Yellowstone, Bison & the Feeling I Can’t Shake
One of the highlights of this trip was heading into Yellowstone. And of course, I had to spend some time with my favorite animal—the bison.
Y’all know I’m obsessed.
There’s something about them that just grounds me. Maybe it’s the way they move—strong, steady, unbothered. Or maybe it’s a longing for a time when they roamed freely, untamed and abundant. They’re a symbol of resilience, and every time I see them, I feel a deep sense of connection to something bigger.
Horseback Riding & a Lesson in Confidence
Oh, and I went horseback riding! It’s been forever since I’ve been on a horse, but the moment I hopped into the saddle, I was like a kid again.
My horse, Spade, was stubborn as all get out—determined to go where he wanted. Keeping him in check wasn’t just fun, it was a reminder.
Confidence is everything. Horses don’t listen to hesitation. They respond to certainty. Riding Spade reminded me that when you show up firm and grounded, everything flows better—whether it’s riding, painting, or just moving through life.
A Creative Breakthrough
I didn’t expect to fall in love with charcoal on this trip, but here we are.
I’ve never been into portraits before, but I started sketching the people around me, and suddenly, I was hooked. My favorite piece? A portrait of Tyler playing the guitar.
There was something about watching him get lost in his music that sparked something in me. I grabbed my charcoal before he even left the room—I had to capture that energy.
By dinner, I had a portrait in my hands, and my model himself would tell you it was "dope." And honestly? I’d have to agree.
That’s what I loved most about charcoal—it let me move fast, stay loose, and just feel the moment instead of overthinking it.
Coming Home with a Full Heart
This retreat wasn’t just about making art. It was about sharing space with other creatives, swapping stories, and letting inspiration flow in ways I didn’t expect. It reminded me how much I needed that space to step away and recharge.
Since coming home, I’ve been pouring that energy back into my oil paintings, adding new layers to pieces I had started before the retreat. With spring in the air, I’ve also been spending a little time in the garden—just another way to embrace creativity and renewal.
Final Thoughts
This trip reminded me why stepping away matters. Sometimes, creativity needs space to breathe, to stretch, to take in something new.
I feel alive in my work again.
And really… that’s everything.
Want to See More?
If you want to stay up to date on what I’m working on—in more of a real-time way—feel free to follow me on Instagram or find me on Facebook! I’d love to connect and share more of my creative journey with you.