![New Year, same me - but with a tidier bookshelf](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/66166a0efc4e3138047d79c7/1738699522813-KTDSA5Q5517YGUVRJJGF/Untitled_Artwork+126.jpg)
New Year, same me - but with a tidier bookshelf
January always feels like a warm-up month - the time to reset, reorganise, and ease into the new year at my own pace. This month, I’ve been making my studio feel more like home, appreciating the little joys (hello, tiny glowing mushroom lamp!), and slowly working on my book nook - emphasis on slowly. It’s been a month of small wins, creative moments, and lots of tea. Join me as I reflect on January, share a peek into my space, and embrace the idea that not every month needs to be about big achievements - sometimes, it’s just about setting the scene for what’s next.
![A Cosy November Recap](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/66166a0efc4e3138047d79c7/1732982321257-OR3VLJMCML0Y24US0CKW/Untitled_Artwork+123.jpg)
A Cosy November Recap
November has been a month of cosy moments, creative reflection, and some much-needed mental health care. From my trip to Edinburgh, where I soaked in the winter magic, to revisiting some of my favourite designs and illustrations—like my gold foil Christmas cards—it’s been a time to slow down and focus on what truly inspires me. I’ve been diving into some great books, sparking new ideas for my creative projects, and reflecting on how I can bring more creativity into my work in 2025. In this post, I’m sharing some of my favourite self-care practices, a special project I’ve been working on, and what I’ve been reflecting on as I set my design and illustration goals for the upcoming year. Let’s dive in!
![Sketch to digital: City of Stolen Magic book cover illustration](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/66166a0efc4e3138047d79c7/1722338484850-H39OZKXRMLL3QM86JMUI/Untitled_Artwork+18.jpg)
Sketch to digital: City of Stolen Magic book cover illustration
From the moment I learned about the Penguin Cover Design Awards, I knew I had to take part in it. When I saw they had a children’s book category I was so excited!