My husband and I arrived home late last night after nearly two weeks on the road. We spent our annual recruiting and alumni trip visiting communities across Alberta and Saskatchewan for the summer camp where we work. It was a rich, rewarding stretch of time filled with conversations, familiar faces and new connections. After sleeping in a different bed almost every night, there’s nothing quite like the relief of stepping back into your own home.
Once I tossed my suitcase onto the bed, I sank into my favorite chair and browsed a few inspiring finds I’d saved throughout the week. I love gathering little design and craft discoveries after a trip — they help me unwind and spark fresh projects. Here are some of the things that caught my eye:
The bright, airy living room at Craftberry Bush instantly lifted my mood. That soft, luminous palette and the way natural light plays across the furniture is so inviting. I admire the clean, fresh look, though I admit I’d be a little nervous keeping white upholstery pristine with kids and guests — still, the styling ideas are wonderful for a living room refresh.
I’ve been experimenting with garlands lately, and a mini pom-pom strand I made months ago has been a cheerful accent in our home. I especially love the oversized, chunky pom-pom garland featured on Love Grows Wild — its texture and scale make a bold, playful statement. The mint dresser underneath is a lovely pop of color too; I didn’t consider myself a mint person until recently, but I’m slowly changing my mind.
Traveling always leaves me craving small, creative projects, and last night I treated myself to something I’ve been meaning to try: my first paid font purchase. While relaxing in my chair I bought the Isabella Script font from Creative Market. I’ve been thinking about a painted sign my son requested for an upcoming fundraiser, and Isabella seems perfect — sweet, readable and full of personality. I love finding tools like this that make quick design projects feel special.
My son’s fundraiser sign will be a fun, meaningful project to work on together. I’m already planning the colors and how the lettering will sit on reclaimed wood — a painted sign like that adds personality and helps teach a child about contributing to a cause.
Before diving into any new craft projects this weekend, I’ll tackle the practical side of coming home: unpacking, washing laundry and putting away travel souvenirs. Unpacking after a trip always feels like a gentle re-entry into everyday life — unpack the suitcase, make a grocery list, and then carve out a little time for creative play. Even simple rituals, like emptying a suitcase and sorting through keepsakes, help me transition from travel energy back to home rhythm.
I’m grateful for the conversations and moments we shared on the road, and also for the ordinary comforts of home — the familiar chair, the quiet kitchen and a sunny spot to sketch out ideas for the sign. I hope your weekend includes a mix of restful routines and a few small sparks of creativity.
Happy Friday, and thanks for reading along!
Rita Joy