I don’t know about you, but the month of April was a complete blur! A hodgepodge of unnamed days, social distancing, distance learning, emergency projects, way too many things to think about — all within the limited view from the living room window and the back patio. My thinking has been just as much of a hodgepodge, just trying to keep up and balance everything, and my heart is torn between seeking out normalcy and indulging in the unique and haphazard opportunities of these unprecedented days. I still don’t know how that dual thinking will all shake out, but for today — May 1 — I’m planting a flag of reference at least in this Field Guide space… a calendar.
Who knew the calendar would be such a novel and increasingly out-matched tool? Almost all of our “normal” routines and events have dropped off the calendar these days, and the things we’re adding are mostly virtual with a few well-spaced work items and logistical necessities thrown in. The task of deciding what day it is has become an increasingly elusive one! Birthday celebrations and family date nights have become in-home “events” with a lighted candle, a new recipe, that project we’ve never found time to do — until now. Bedtimes and morning routines have grown fluid, a lot like summer time, but not exactly. As we head into week eight of this Covid-19 altered reality, I’m needing a reminder to stem the chaos. A reminder to capture the days in all their uniqueness. A reminder to seek out all that we have to learn and grow from this time. Welcome, May.
Are there hearts and flowers in your future? Love is in the air, and it’s easy to share the good fortune on Valentine’s Day with these paper fortune cookies! I’ve been wanting to share more free downloads and paper craft ideas on the Small Pond Field Guide, and my daughter says that this one passes the cuteness test! Shaped like traditional Chinese fortune cookies, a batch of these paper creations would make a sweet addition to your Valentine decor, or a unique way to create handmade, personalized Valentines or party favors. Plus, they are easy and quick to make!
Read More →One of twelve is down! In some ways, January always seems like such a slow month, but in some ways I feel like it’s flown by. Although it’s not apparent from some of the dreary weather we’ve had, the new year is off to a good start around the Pond. And now, I’m celebrating the arrival of February with a silly new print in the shop and an “Owl love you” printable calendar…
Read More →That hand painted script! “Independent” ventures sometimes carry a lot of questions, plenty of decision-making, and usually a healthy helping of unpredictability paired with second-guessing. But, it’s fun to relish the independence sometimes, and indulge in the serendipity of an unplanned road, even if it results in a few detours.
I have to say that I really enjoy traveling by myself. Not in large doses (because I just love having my children with me), but a few hours left to my own devices in the car with no strict ETA required can be good for the soul! Last year, I had the opportunity for a little solo road trip through central Alabama. I was meeting my son for a school event in Auburn, and I gave myself permission to take the long way…
Read More →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.
© Haley Montgomery for Small Pond Graphics.
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