Simple Joys

By year’s end, I feel like I barely made it to the finish line. Mentally taxed, i’m thankful that time for reprieve is upon us, even if for a short time. Me and the family break away from home to quiet life down. This year we sought solace in a special place to us, Joshua Tree National Park. We brought our cameras, books and journals to enjoy and use to reflect on the year.

Each morning I spent time roaming the park in the quietly lit landscape of giant rocks and mysterious Joshua Trees. Stress from the year began to fade away. I had many quiet conversations with myself and enjoyed the silence; just grateful to be there. I felt like a kid again. I remember how freeing it was to just “go”. Back then “go” meant pushing around on my skateboard. The rumbling of the urethane against the asphalt, wind on my face. Countless moments of freedom and joy. These days the rumbling asphalt is replaced with quiet dusty trails; nonetheless the feelings are the same. For a brief moment, life feels a lot simpler, seemingly acoustic and broken down to its bare bones. I’m quickly reminded to not lose site of the simple joys of life. 

Below are some quick sketches from those mornings. I have held on to a few of my favorites for my 2025 Collection that I’m working on which should be released in January 2026. 

If you’re reading this, thank you for stopping by. Take care. Until next time. - M