This week I was in Columbus, MS for a meeting and stopped by their lovely Downtown area for a few minutes. The small town is the mother lode of antebellum structures, and there are many historic elements in their Downtown storefronts as well. Some of my favorite hand-painted signs are those on brick walls, and this one struck my fancy. Enjoy and have a great weekend in YOUR small pond!
This photograph is one that just adds some sunshine to my thoughts. I’ve used it for my August header this month, but I thought that I would show the full version before the month is over. Hope it lightens your day!
Lately, I’ve enjoyed experimenting with taking “place” photos — looking at angles, symmetry, proportions, etc in capturing the essence of a place. I’m not sure I’m being successful, but I’m having fun looking through the lens. I recently took one of my Friday field trips back to the Mississippi State University campus to get some images of the Chapel of Memories. [I’ve field-tripped there before.] It’s one of the most-loved places on campus, and I especially love the courtyard beside it. Enjoy!
Proportions are such a funny thing sometimes. They can really make or break a design. I’m always intrigued by items that tweak the conventions of proportions a little toward the unexpected — like this great clutch from Apple & Bee. The bag is about 5 x 7″ and I’m loving the oversized silver clasp. Doesn’t it remind you girls of playing dress-up? That feeling of sneaking a bit of glamour from your mama’s closet. (I hope that’s not just a Southern thing!)
You know, it kind of reminds me not to shoo my Baby Girl away from the bracelet drawer when she sees something that strikes her fancy. These are spectacular times. Go make today a special one!
Mud Island is one of the signature stops in Memphis, TN. The park features a scale model of the Mississippi River running through it. The “river bed” is a popular spot with children since it is filled with water as dictated by the rains — just like the real river. The structure traces the route of Old Man River with city grids and small towns etched along its path. Beale Street, of course, made the cut of important places.
Hello & welcome! I’m Haley Montgomery, and I’m the designer and owner of Small Pond Graphics. I sometimes fancy myself a frog kisser— a documentarian coaxing poignant moments from unexpected places. This blog has evolved from those moments.
The small Pond FIELD GUIDE is part diary, part sketchbook, and part wish list – an archive of ordinary wonders. For years, this space has housed my stories – creative ideas, vintage inspiration, our forays into curious places, and the simple artifacts of quiet of conscious living. Through watercolor, photography, and illustrated tales, these pages uncover the blessing of ordinary days and the wonder found in authentic places and pursuits.
I invite you to open the boxes.
Peek into the drawers.
Rustle through the pages.
I’m honored to have you here.
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Phone: 662.312.4001
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