April’s Touch Grass Mail Club came together slowly, just the way I like it. I always make sure my creative process never feels rushed or forced. It usually begins with me sitting quietly and looking through my nature photos, waiting for one image to feel right. This month’s postcard was taken in Puerto Rico, next to my husband’s grandmother’s home, months after Hurricane Maria. I had the privilege of experiencing a view that most people only see if they live there, and that moment stayed with me.
My doodles are always inspired by the feeling of a photo rather than trying to match it perfectly. The coquí is deeply symbolic to Puerto Rico. At night in the mountains their tiny calls fill the air. I normally struggle to sleep in new environments, but their soft chirping felt incredibly calming and grounding. Choosing this image was my way of holding onto that peaceful memory and reminding myself to continue slowing down.
Lately I have been embracing the phrase “perfection is the death of creativity,” something I heard from another creator. With that mindset, I sat down and began sketching a coquí. I redrew his head more times than I can count, but if I had not allowed myself to simply start, I never would have reached the final result. I love him so much and now I think he needs a name. One of my favorite parts of this edition is the hand drawn sketch that became the foundation for the artwork inside. I drew everything freehand, allowing myself to enjoy creating without chasing perfection. That feeling of freedom is something I hope comes through in every mail club package.
The ACEO art card featured this month highlights Flor de Maga, a flower that represents resilience. This is my very first month including an art card and I could not be more excited to explore this form of art. I have been fascinated with ACEOs ever since discovering them last February, and it means so much to share this new step of my creative journey with you.
My goal with Touch Grass Mail Club has always been to create a small space where our nervous systems can pause and reset. Life moves quickly, and sometimes we forget to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with nature or with ourselves. From the photography to the doodles to the affirmations tucked inside, everything is chosen with intention and care. I truly hope this month brings you a sense of calm and peace.
Thank you for being part of this journey with me and for supporting something that grows from real moments, real art, and a genuine connection to nature.
Touch grass and hug a tree,
Ashley
