Masterpieces Magazine #01

Welcome to the first Master”pieces” of my Life Newsletter. The Masterpieces Magazine is a monthly newsletter, which will be posted on the last day of the month to review current trends, doings and happenings. The focus of the newsletter will give a peek behind the scenes around here, share curated content and provide digest communication.

As part of my Intentional one little word for the year, I am adding a monthly newsletter on the blog to bring mindful thoughts and purposeful information, including trending content, on-line inspiration and virtual love for my loyal readers.

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Behind the Scenes

Where I share personal anecdotes, insider doings, and a peak behind the curtain of the Master”Pieces” of my Life blog. I hope information about me as a person will bring connection and a closer virtual relationship.

Life Lately

My son, my first born, aka Master M turns 24 today. WOW! That makes me really old. lol. Anyway, a dinner party celebration at home with his girlfriend and her parents is planned. Pasta boy of course celebrates in true fashion with mom’s red sauce. One of these days I have to share my recipe here.

Wellness Journey

I started a new medication protocol for my MS treatment. Some of you might now I had been taking an oral medication twice daily since I was diagnosed back in 2021. Well, last Wednesday I had an infusion of a new medication which is administered every six months. The first dose is split in two appointments, two weeks apart and then it’s an every six months treatment. Not gonna lie, I was scared and nervous and totally did not know what to expect.

Side note: The Benadryl was already added to my IV so I was feeling a bit loopy and sleepy.

Well, I am glad to report it went swimmingly. The location is close and convenient, the infusion center is clean and professional and the staff is knowledgeable and considerate. The best part is that I did not experience any side effects (yet), or issues. Time will tell how it helps with my MS illness. A private room, big screen TV, endless snacks and drinks, private restroom…. dare I say I’m looking forward to the next one? Of course I would prefer to not have to undergo any treatment at all and walk with agility again, but I won’t look a gift horse in the mouth. For funnies here’s my infusion suite:

My MS Cliff Notes: I was first diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in my late twenties {1994} when I had an episode of optic neuritis. My eyesight regained quickly, and I remained asymptomatic most of my life until I didn’t. In late 2021 I had a break through episode, which provided my latest diagnosis. My main symptom currently is walking stamina. I can get around marginally and I still drive etc., but it’s all in an edited fashion. If you are interested you can read my whole story here {My prognosis & Living with MS}.

January Digest

January’s content included a mix of New Year’s reflections, winter life, Valentine’s Day inspiration and more. In case you missed anything…

Be Inspired

Winter Inspiration

Valentine’s Inspiration

February Forecasts

The month of February is kicked-off by Groundhog day. After the crazy storm we just had across the country, I can expect most people don’t want the shadow to appear. Regardless if spring comes early or winter goes long, spring content will be popping up around here. Events like the Super Bowl, Valentine’s Day and Mardi Gras will keep most of us busy one way or another. A new Interior Design series is scheduled, and I’m excited to share more at the end of next month. Stay tuned.

Trends & Insights

2026 is showing promise with many home interior trends I’m all about. According to Forbes:

• Maximalism returns but with a meaning (think filling your spaces with meaningful stuff)
• Sustainability becomes the standard (think big picture and long game)
• Function becomes a design priority (think practical beyond pretty)
• Biophilic design evolves beyond walls (think organic living from flora to energy to atmosphere)
• The rise of slow decorating (think a collected and curated home)
• Antiques & thrifting out-chic fast furniture (think second hand sources)
• Tapestries and textiles add to the narrative (think texture, cozy & warmth)
• Tassel detailing is here to stay (think details with subtle movement)

I’m here for all of it. Usually there’s a few trends I don’t get behind on these lists and predictions, but these all speak to me. Do these appeal to you too? Any not so much? Which one is your favorite?

Another trend that will be big for 2026 and beyond is AI. How do you guys feel about AI? I’ve leaned into it a bit, both personally and here on the blog. I know I’m not taking full advantage of it, and I need to become more knowledgeable. One thing is for sure, AI will never write the posts on this blog for you. I enjoy researching and writing these posts, which stretch my imagination and knowledge. These are good articles on the topic:

I believe the best is a hybrid model where you use the machines as an informational resource and administrative tool, but leave the authentic content to the humans. I love how one of the authors above described the human factor as the Midas touch which sprinkles emotions, opinions and nuance into writing. Amen!

Inspiration around the Web

• My friend Anna @ Sky Lark House has the cutest Valentine’s craft – go check it out.
• Every image here is simple yet so full – purely inspirational, I could scroll forever.
• This Oregon home nailed the English cottage core charm.
• While half the country is under snow we can still dream of gardening and pretty outdoor spaces and English Gardens are always full of charm and inspiration.
• This fabulous Sanctuary home blurs the lines between the outdoor and indoor spaces | A Serene Modern Home Hidden in the Heart of Palo Alto

Spotlights

The top viewed post for January last year was the No Sew Laurel Pillow DIY.

A great idea from the Masterpieces Menu museum for the upcoming Valentine’s Day festivities is an amazing sweets board. The concept is actually perfect for any holiday or event simply by adjusting the offerings for the season.

Communication 101 & Building Community

As a content creator I hope to provide the best communication for you, my readers. This monthly magazine will hopefully deliver an added layer of resources, information and inspiration.

Welcome to a monthly publication to foster community, nurture relationship and curate content for dedicated readers. Welcome, and let’s enjoy the good life together.

We are always striving to master the art of joie de vivre around here. If you enjoy the good life and want a reflection of this in your home, please consider joining the Masterpiece community. Sign up below and you won’t miss any new content, receiving all new posts directly into your in-box.

I’m so glad you’re here today, truly appreciate you and can’t wait to see you next time. If there are any topics you are interested in discussing next month please drop me a note down below. See ya next time. Au revoir!

Shop the Look – Favorites Right Now

• My favorite Preserved Boxwood Square Wreath
• Lanterns in the Winter for the Win! Square Wooden and Metal Lanterns – Set of Two
• I’m obsessed with these loafers I got for my birthday Betsey Johnson Womens Harloe
• Super cute for V-day or Spring Striped Color Block Short Sleeve Fashion T-Shirts Crewneck Casual Loose Basic Tee Blouses
• My favorite candle of all time Driftwood Tray Candle 
• The color and design on these napkins is everything Maison d’ Hermine Cloth Napkins
• My obsession with pearls continues Faux Pearl Napkin Rings (4 Pack), Ivory
• These are great for Valentine’s projects and entertaining Palm Leaf Disposable Bamboo Style 4″ Heart Shaped Plates

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The year’s first month is like a blank canvas. Let your actions be the brushstrokes that create your masterpiece.”

Unknown

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sharing @ between naps on the porch