As I bid adieu to August, it is clear that this summer was a retreat for the soul. I have never been sad for a summer to end; I have always run to the finish line, excited to jump back into the known routines. Now, I find myself settling into these final moments, determined to stretch them out and make the most of each one. I told one of my friends that this has felt like my first “real summer” with my children, and the moment I typed those words, I burst into happy tears. I was so worried I wouldn’t be able to be productive and meet my deadlines, but I found I could be my most productive self with half as many hours of studio time. Maybe it was the inspiration of being in nature with my children, or having reached the more manageable ages of five and eight, or maybe time is never what it seems.

big and little things that left a mark this month…

1. Delightful hydrangeas with their generous bouquets were everywhere we looked. We watched them gently transition from pristine white to celadon to dusky rose. Thanking them and wishing them farewell until next summer.

2. I discovered my favorite summer salad with fresh ingredients from Hog Farm on the patio table while watching my kids play on the lawn.

3. Daily bike rides to the bay to collect treasures during low tide became my favorite ritual of the summer. The quiet breeze, conversations, discoveries, and artifacts will stay with me forever.

4. Al Fresco - I collected a few fun things for porch and patio dining: utensil caddy, chargers, tablecloth, and linens, as we rarely had a meal indoors.

5. Tan lines + Beach hair.

6. A visit from sister-friend to work on design plans for Haven House. If you don’t know Page House, I am pleased to introduce you to their stunning collection - everything is 20% off right now for their annual sale. Lots more to come here as we will share every detail along the way.

7. House & Garden home tours became my bedtime stories. I fell in love with the ramblings and retellings of how the homes were created and lived in. The reverence for individuality, imperfections, history, creaky floors, and patina spoke directly to my soul.

8. Vintage - it was a month of vintage collecting: A beautiful gray-blue Gustavian Credenza I found on Chairish, several miniature oil paintings, brass mid century bookends, a Fitz and Floyd ceramic shell bowl, some antique specimen drawings on Etsy, and a Turkish handwoven wool rug on Kilim, just to name a few.

9. Greenrow rattan lamps were the perfect impulse purchase and gave Sam’s Haven House bedroom the dose of organic warmth and texture that it needed.

10. Boys in bloom… watching my boys grow in their independence and fall in love with nature and life.

What made a mark on you this month?

I began this series about a year ago, formerly known as Moms I Heart. I wanted the flexibility for more in-depth interviews that can’t be edited into short clips, so now these conversations will be published here on Renderings. To see past interviews with some of the most inspiring moms I have the honor of knowing, please visit this link.

I am pleased to share this interview with Anne Read, co-founder of LAKE Pajamas. I went to school with AR in Alabama and have admired her sincerity, kindness, and genuine talent for many years. I bought my first LAKE set back when they specialized in washable silks, and it has been so inspiring to watch their sustained growth, which stems from an unwavering commitment to quality, comfort, and style.

As someone who worked in the apparel industry for eighteen years and owned my own brand for nearly a decade, I am most struck by their willingness to make their own rules and shape a business around what matters most to them. AR has been decisively private, which I have tremendous respect for. It’s not easy to separate yourself as a founder, as there is always pressure to fully integrate your persona into your brand. I find it admirable that AR and her partner have been so steadfast in the choices they have made for themselves and their families while simultaneously growing a successful business. For this reason, I feel especially honored to share Anne Read’s wisdom on motherhood with you all.

Who or what made you a mom?

Anne Read Lattimore: My daughter Elizabeth (12) and son William (10)

How has motherhood surprised you?

ARL: I’m consistently surprised and impressed by the capacity of mothers. Motherhood has increased my capacity to love, to manage all the things, and to persevere.

Where are you finding inspiration, joy, or creativity in this chapter of life?

ARL: I'm finding all of the above through travel. I've always loved to travel, and I find it gives me a clear head and space to think and dream. My children are now at an age where travel comes easily, and this really opens up options. I'm excited to explore new places and uncover fresh sources of inspiration in the coming years.

A recent big little moment…

ARL: During a boat day on our spring break trip last week, both kids found their way over to me and snuggled up for a stretch of the ride. My kids are in their pre-teen era, but in sweet moments like this, I’m reminded how small and young they still are.

Daily ritual?

ARL: Our family plays “High/Low” at the dinner table each night, where we each share one great thing about our day and one not so great thing. I’ve found this to be a reliable moment of family connection after busy days of work, school, and sports.

The advice you didn’t take

ARL: Early in motherhood, I heard someone say, “If it’s not a problem for you, it’s not a problem.” Motherhood is full of well-intended advice, but each mom has their own preferences and limits. At the end of the day, you have to trust yourself and do what’s best for you.

The advice you now give

ARL: Cherish every stage. The chapters of childhood each bring their own kind of magic, and every phase is fleeting. Slow down, soak it in, and fully embrace the season your children are in.

Your wish for every mom

ARL: I wish every mom a life full of magical moments - both big and small - with their children… and good sleep.

LAKE pajamas are one of my go-to gifts for the women and children in my life, and a personal style staple for myself while lounging at home.

I am so thankful for the lovely community of mothers I have had the privilege of knowing during this chapter of life, and I look forward to continuing to share their love and wisdom with you here.

With Love,

LP

We kicked off July with our annual stay with family in North Carolina to celebrate the Fourth of July. It is always a highlight of the year, with a very retro Americana feeling and family fun for all!

Mid-month, we began our first official summer in Bellport, and I feel like I am living out my childhood dream of a northeastern coastal home - something I only knew from the pages of the 1990s J.Crew catalogs that arrived each spring. I grew up visiting the Gulf Coast of Alabama and Florida, and I longed for a coast where you could wear a cable knit cotton sweater with cutoffs. Cool enough in the evening to roast s’mores on the beach, and warm enough to swim.

At the age of 18, while studying interior design, my first chosen project was a “Hamptons House.” Looking back, I am tickled by how little I really understood about what the Hamptons was, and that in my forties, I would seek out something a bit more rural and quiet, just a bit down the road. But the dream was there, and now, over 20 years later, my kids are living out my own childhood fantasy in Bellport, LI.

big and little things that left a mark this month…

1. America’s 250 - American flags are everywhere, and the World Cup just ended. It feels like people are celebrating the good stuff, and remembering we have more in common than we think.

2. A good old-fashioned red, white, and blue-themed field day with sack races and fun for the whole family. A little family competition surrounded by the majestic mountains.

3. Freedom - My city kid finally learned to ride a bike after much reluctance. In triumph, he screamed “THIS IS THE BEST DAY OF MY LIFE!” as his tiny figure shrank into the distance.

4. In the middle of a heat wave, it felt so cool and serene to walk in the mountain forests. It was pure magic and oneness with nature. One outing was punctuated with a major thunderstorm. We ran the whole way back, soaked through, out of breath, and belly laughing.

5. Evening beach picnics with provisions from Copper Beech, a good rosé, the best beach gear, and fancy paper plates.

6. Wearing a swimsuit every day, just in case the opportunity arises, and finding a hat that actually stays on with the beach wind.

7. Ice cream candy bars and the Ho Hum concession stand - this summer is all about nostalgia, and I love to indulge with the kids.

8. Scored a quirky original oil portrait on Etsy for Sam’s room. You know I am biased, but nothing adds to a room like a portrait.

9. Catch and release. Fish, fireflies, and whatever else fails to escape a little boy’s curiosity.

10. Riding with the top down and singing our favorite songs at the top of our lungs while basking in the salty air.

What made a mark on you this month?

I began this series about a year ago, formerly known as Moms I Heart. I wanted the flexibility for more in-depth interviews that can’t be edited into short clips, and now these conversations will live here on Renderings. To see past interviews, please visit this link.

I am pleased to share this interview with two lovely moms, Caroline Witmer and Sarah Michler, the founders of the delectable and adorable chocolate company, Tuck Shop (shop my favorites here). I met these ladies at the Moms Heart Moms Mother’s Day event last year, where they generously donated time and resources to support Welcome Baby USA. I was immediately struck by their warmth and kindness, and knew I wanted to get to know them better. I am honored to share more about these two mom founders and share their wisdom with you all.

Who or what made you a mom?

Caroline Witmer: My eldest Carson made me a Mom. I felt so lucky to be pregnant during Covid which gave me such a wonderful sense of purpose (and a timeline) when the world felt a little upside down. Carson is now 5.5 years old and already tells me she wants to be a mom, artist, and teacher when she grows up.

Sarah Michler: My daughter Beatrice made me a Mom. She is 4 and has more enthusiasm than hours in the day. I love seeing the world through her eyes. She’s reminded me of the idea that ordinary things might be astonishing.

How has motherhood surprised you?

CW: Motherhood has surprised me with its constant duality. I can feel completely exhausted and, in the very same moment, wish time would slow down. There are days when I feel stretched thin, and yet I have never loved anything more fiercely.

It has also given me a profound appreciation for my own parents. I find myself reflecting on all they quietly did for me and my siblings. So much of parenthood happens in the unseen moments, and becoming a mother has helped me recognize and cherish those moments.

SM: Motherhood has surprised me by how much I learn from my kids. Children have a beautiful way of being completely honest, saying exactly what they think, and noticing things that adults often overlook. I think we lose some of our sense of wonder as we grow up and one of the greatest gifts of motherhood has been seeing the world through their eyes again.

Where are you finding inspiration, joy, or creativity in this chapter of life?

CW: A lot of my inspiration and creativity comes from building Tuck Shop. It’s a chance to collaborate with others, solve problems creatively, and bring ideas to life. Motherhood can be wonderfully immersive, so having a space where I can create, build, and connect with others feels incredibly energizing. And it is certainly joyful when chocolate is at the center of it all.

SM: Tuck Shop brings me endless joy, inspiration and creativity! One day we’re dreaming up a new pattern and the next we’re tasting a new flavor combination we love. We are able to meet fascinating people from so many different industries and we’re inspired by so much — travel, art, conversations with customers. We want to make sure this sense of wonder always stays at the heart of what we do.

A recent big little moment…

CW: My baby turned 1 today which feels like such a big little moment! I am feeling all the feels looking back at photos over the last year. It is equal parts amazing and devastating to watch my girls grow up.

SM: Today my son turned 6 months old and I spent the morning teaching my 4 year old how to ski. I feel amazed at my body; to create life and then get back out onto a mountain. Women are biological miracles.

Daily ritual?

CW: Take a beat for me. A workout, walk to a coffee shop. I need some time alone each day. :)

SM: We sing at least two to three songs from Mamma Mia per day. Everyone in our house loves music and there’s nothing better to lift a mood than an Abba dance party.

The advice you didn’t take

CW: You can't do it all. I am so glad I never listened to this. Life is long and you hold the reins on how you want to spend your time. Sure, it won't look perfect, or even pretty, but a full and messy life is just as fun.

SM: This is probably controversial, but we let our kids climb into our bed and sleep next to us. I did this as a kid as well and there’s nothing as comforting as sleeping between your parents. There’s an old Japanese saying that the child is the water and the parents are the riverbanks. I know I’ll long for it when they’re older!

The advice you now give

CW: Follow your intuition. There is so much noise out there...ideas, opinions, products, dos/don'ts. It really can be quite distracting. The power of your own maternal instinct can be extraordinary - make space for it, and do things your way.

SM: Find your tribe and don’t be afraid to ask them for help. Most people really want to help but never get a chance to. Friends, family, neighbors - I embrace communal parenting. It’s good for the kids to see they are part of a bigger community of people.

Your wish for every mom

CW: Be confident, be proud! Your little beings are undoubtedly obsessed with you - take that as a win and enjoy the magic of it all.

SM: I never felt time passing until I had kids. Parenting can be full on but these young years are so fleeting. Find the joy — even if everything is messy and you feel like it’s all falling in!

I am so thankful for the lovely community of mothers I have had the privilege of knowing during this chapter of life, and I look forward to continuing to share their love and wisdom with you here.

With Love,

LP

Is humanity becoming a luxury?

Is our shared humanity the thing we have long denied, and now desperately want to return to?

A friend said something to me a few weeks ago, and I can’t stop thinking about it. In reference to our optimizing culture and artificial perfection, “It’s like we are scared of our own humanity.”

This struck a chord with me, a sound of sorrow and impending doom. How have we become scared of who and what we are? This constant seeking and a need to be something else, something different, something seemingly better.

After a lifetime of struggling to fit in, one mantra that has become important to me is, “be yourself so your people can find you.” I recently listened to a podcast where they discussed groupthink and our devotion and survival instincts to remain part of our clan, but how so often we don’t even know what our clan wants or thinks. Often, we mold ourselves to ideals that aren’t even held by those around us. We are actively shaping ourselves into an illusory false belief system.

And of course, there is AI, and how so many of its functions are born of our quest for belonging, optimizing, and perfection. Overly airbrushed photos, perfectly written emails, and a false entity that boosts our ego at every turn. These extra barriers of protection in all of our interactions separate us. And now, in a time when we have no idea what those around us truly believe, what a human actually created, or what ideas were born of magical human contemplation, experiences, and mistakes, I am drawn more than ever to what feels distinctly human.

I think about our consumer culture and how I know I am craving what feels authentic, handmade, or one-of-a-kind. In this world where you can have almost anything, what I desperately want is the uniquely human thing.

I want the imperfect artwork that took someone a lifetime to achieve through trial and error and discovering their own unique hand and heart. Or the patina of an antique or heirloom that passed through the generations and the lives of so many. I want to listen to the podcast that doesn’t follow the formula, the song that broke all of the rules, where someone allowed themselves to become completely vulnerable and laid their soul on the line. Not performative oversharing, but creative vulnerability. I want to walk into a space and be delighted by the many traces of life left behind. I want the book that flowed immediately from the divine, or the book by the author who took a lifetime to find their voice and stories. I don’t want to read grammatically correct essays or copy-and-paste regurgitation. I don’t want the mass-produced bag or vase. I want the piece of pottery that was molded by hand, one that the artist watched take shape and surprise them in the best ways. I want to see the movie that tells an inimitable story in which hundreds of individuals came together, drawing on thousands of different life experiences to create it. Whispers of the soul that found their way onto the page or canvas or flowed through the fingers at a piano.

That’s what art is - unique expression. A beautiful amalgamation of life experiences, unique touch, nature, miracles, anatomy, imagination, mistakes, and acceptance. The hand-sewn stitch, or hand-blown glass with all its gorgeous imperfections. An artist who decided when to stop or went too far and started over again. I want to feel my art and life with all of my senses.

In a world where things are becoming more costly but less valuable, where you can ask a robot to create a Sargent-esque painting, I am seeking the story, the humanity, and the love. Mostly, the love.

We love art because it connects us, or makes us question, or makes us feel something.

Our true nature, entangled with our humanity, is irreplaceable. We are all unique expressions of the divine whole. Our humanness is undeniable and beautiful.

Technology will always have a place, but as I contemplate what has eternal value, I want to keep what connects us and what is human. It may be squiggly, with lots of eraser marks, but I will attempt to draw the line and my values somewhere here.

Maybe our humanity was always the ultimate luxury. Priceless and eternal.

I love NYC in June, as residents embark on their travels and the city evolves into a whole new vibe. Less hustle, same bustle, easier to get a reservation, and the weather starts to turn for the better. It was a month of transition with the close of another school year in NYC, and a taste of our first official summer in Bellport, LI.

big and little things that left a mark this month…

1. Goodbye, Preschool. Wilkes graduated from Montessori, and we turned the page on a seven year chapter of life. Preschool days are such a formative time for us parents. I made lifelong friendships and learned how to be a mother in a community of other parents and educators.

2. A blast from the past. Keds unisex sneakers - I love the timeless look and feel of these, and they take me right back to my childhood. They are also perfect for boating days or running around the city.

3. Knicks in Five! The Knicks won the championship, and my kids are at an age where they can truly appreciate the moment. The inspiring personal stories of Jalen Brunson resonated with my boys. I love what my friend Jamie wrote on her Substack, and I am reminded of how beautiful and unifying sports can be. More sports. Less politics.

4. A good tee. My favorite Zara white tee - The fabric, fit, and shape are so good. I bought several of them, and they are now part of my summer uniform.

5. Peonies. I discovered we have a whole section of peonies in our little garden in light pink and white. These are my favorite flowers, and were my wedding flowers. The fact that these weighty buds exist on the end of these long stalks feels like beautiful defiance, as they bow down to the rain yet continue to bloom. The fragrance is heavenly, and reminds me of the divine artistry of God each time I walk by one of the vases.

6. Boating. We bought a small fishing boat to keep on our little dock, and it feels like a whole new world of possibilities unfolded before our eyes. I have dreamed my entire life of having a home by the sea. I cried so many tears of joy on those first few rides. The smell, the feeling, the views. There is nothing more magical than being out on the water with the people you love.

7. Sailing for Sam. There is no greater joy than watching your child thrive in something that they were hesitant to explore. He was so proud of his progress and looks forward to reaching his goals.

8. Ducklings everywhere. Feeling the connection to nature as I watched mother ducks lead their ducklings through our little creek. They are everywhere. This book inspired me to share with my kids. I urged them to look at how the mommy duck is so devoted to her babies, just as I am to them. Noticing our oneness with nature is a spiritual practice that children can relate to without any elaborate explanations.

9. A grain of sand. Sam posed the question of how many grains of sand there are on the beach….the ocean….on planet earth?! It was fun to contemplate and a lovely reminder of the majesty of this planet.

10. The perfect white sunnies. I lost my beloved cream Celine cat eyes last year, but since they no longer make them, I have been at a loss until I happened upon these at Prada. White cat-eye sunglasses have been my favorite since the age of twelve. Back then, they made me feel like Audrey Hepburn in How to Steal a Million or classic Grace Kelly, and still do today.

11. Beach things. For our summer trips to Ho Hum, I ordered a few adorable things from Business and Pleasure. Planning for a summer on the beach is almost as fun as living it. The stripe is called Lauren’s Navy. How cute is that?! And I secretly love that it matches our little boat.

12. Taking flight. Watching the majestic egrets on the creek. I have become enamored with these birds and learned that they symbolize peace, patience, and independence.

What made a mark on you this month?

Dear Lovelies,

Portrait Studies are an in-depth closer look at a mom I admire. I began this series about a year ago, formerly known as Moms I Heart. I wanted the flexibility for more in-depth interviews that can’t be edited into short clips, and now these conversations will live here on Renderings.

I am pleased to acquaint you with Jody Geary of Stovall Collection in Memphis, TN. I have been creating portraits of Jody’s children since 2020, and I distinctly remember being in COVID isolation at our family’s lake house while I was working on her oldest daughter. It was such a surreal moment, and I was deep in my feelings, pregnant with Wilkie, and had a two-year-old Sam to care for. Jody was lovely, decisive, and so open and trusting of me and my process. Since then, I have completed two more portraits for her family, and it is so heartwarming to watch this family grow over time and know I have played a small part in their family story. I have since commissioned Jody and Stovall Collection for my beautiful branded letterpress authenticity cards, as well as my own personal stationery. If you have received a package from me, then you know the quality of her work. I knew I wanted to hear more from Jody about her experience of motherhood, and I am delighted to share her wisdom with you all.

Who or what made you a mom?
My Jennie, named for my incredible mom. We weren’t going to find out the gender, but the doctor let it slip after the anatomy scan. I knew her name instantly. Both Jennies are so precious to me.

A recent big little moment…
Boy moms get it—little boys give the best hugs. I thought I’d only have daughters, so I really delight in baby Bill!. I’ve convinced him his hugs are “magic,” so he gives extra-long ones. Easily one of my favorite parts of the day!

Daily ritual?
I’m the ultimate Type B mom, always trying to create more consistency. Life feels all over the place right now. My one constant? Morning coffee—made by my 9-year-old Jennie.

The advice you didn’t take
I wish I’d asked for more help after Bill was born. I had a new business and three kids under four. It felt harder to delegate, but looking back, I feel for that overwhelmed version of me.

The advice you now give
Nothing groundbreaking—just be present. Kids need silliness and laughter. Life is serious enough. Be more like Bluey’s dad.

Your wish for every mom
Put your own mask on first. Find your way back to yourself after that first year. Being your best self makes you the best mom for your kids.

I am so thankful for the lovely community of mothers I have had the privilege of knowing during this chapter of life, and I look forward to continuing to share their love and wisdom with you here.

With Love,

LP

I took a little break to contemplate how to show up here in the most wholehearted way possible, and as all things evolve, so have my plans for this space. I am opening my diary, sketch book, and heart. Moving forward, here is what you can expect.

RENDERINGS: Seasonal in-depth stories of inspiration, process, or relevant musings. This will be whatever is top of mind and heart.

TRACINGS: A log of all of the big and little things that made an impression each month. The deep and contemplative, the inspiring and beautiful.

PORTRAIT STUDY: Periodical closer look at a mom I admire.

+ A few bonus entries along the way

And now, back to the intended…

big and little things that left a mark this month…

1. A meditation on a park bench while listening to the city and nature sounds merge into a symphony. Two things can be true, and I am very much a gal who wants to be connected to the city's energy without immersing myself in it. When the birds, breeze, hammers, and horns blend, I feel simultaneously alive and at peace, and I can’t help but smile.

   

2. I began hand-painting a mural in my breakfast room at Haven House. I’ll share more about the process and inspiration soon, but for now, you can follow the progress here. It was a Mother’s Day gift to myself. Two solo days at the house to play and explore the possibilities. I was feeling so much gratitude for the countless times I watched my mother immerse herself in a creative project, and I felt her there with me with each stroke.

3. I added a couple of crisp spring items to awaken me from this record-long New York winter. I especially love this elegant shirt dress. I style with one too many buttons undone, sleeves loosely pushed up, and these Toteme sandals, but will also pair with sneakers or a metallic sandal kitten heel. The perfect day-to-night, wear anywhere item.

   

4. Returning to a pretty paper planner (goodbye Apple Notes), and using a proper fountain pen. It took a few months to jump back into the habit of keeping a paper planner, and now I know I can’t go back. There is nothing like writing by hand.

5. Making my first arrangement of flowers cut from the yard at Haven House. For a southern-turned-big-city gal, this felt like a true mark of making a home outside of the hustle and bustle.

6. Tuesday Yoga resumed at the studio with my besties - a ritual we started around 4 years ago. It always makes a mark on my soul, thanks to my talented friend Nicole Katz. This month’s magical flow was all about the cycles of daily life becoming tangled and untangled and ultimately, reaching for joy.

7. Witnessing Sam share his soul and voice in his school recital. Is there anything better? Yes, actually. I’ll hold the memories of the 8 pm practice sessions forever. I discussed the lead-up to this moment with my lovely friend Jennie on her podcast - We Didn’t Turn Out Ok.

8. A 2025 vision board moment came to life with a book signing of JoJo at Books of Wonder. Note to self: make more vision boards!

9. Shipping out my first batch of prints from my very first print shop. My only art training was in fashion illustration, and creating these artworks felt like merging two chapters of my life. The shop is a joyful milestone after 8+ years of only offering commissioned custom work.

10. Leaning into prayer as meditation. Less asking and more listening, and writing God’s answers by hand.

11. Experiencing all of the spring blooms at Haven House for the very first time.

    

12. Playing Loving Life Again by Ella Langley on repeat.

What made a mark on you this month?

I do love the idea of picking a word as an anchor for guidance. Last year, my word was connection. At first, I thought my word might be fun. This is a word I have continued to struggle with. Anything that felt fun has always had an undercurrent of guilt for me, unless it was a “productive” activity - this is what led me to a career of creation. Creation brings me authentic joy. It is not forced, and when I use it to serve others, I do not feel guilty. But I am learning that depriving myself of joy beyond the means of productivity is not pure.

This contemplation of the word "fun" began last summer, when I read Ina Garten's memoir, which I discussed here in my post about acquiring Haven House. Ina’s pure pursuit of fun in everything she did awakened something inside of me, but it has remained elusive. I haven’t quite grasped it in a wholehearted manner.

During a yoga retreat hosted by my magical friend, Nicole Katz, at her cabin in upstate NY, the word I kept pushing up against, yet again, was “fun.” She insisted we seek fun, and I felt I could not embrace the idea. Fun was something you “tried to have.” Fun required striving, sugarcoating, and ignoring the undercurrent of voices saying, “Shouldn’t you be doing something more productive?!” I decided I could access joy in the pursuit of something, but fun wasn’t truly for me.

In December, I went to an event here at the National Arts Club with my friend Sally McBride - a speaking engagement for an author and party planner. A midday escape that sounded fun, but one that I would never have allowed myself had it not been my birthday. As I listened to Rebecca Gardner tell tales of silly, whimsical, kitchy, and fabulous parties, I felt deeply moved(?!). She wasn’t striving to achieve anything in her party planning beyond sheer delight! She wasn’t attempting to be chic or create beauty - she was on a mission to create FUN. It was creative, funny, irreverent, and wonderful. There were no rules and zero guilt at her parties.

As I age, I am finally learning that the things that spark my questions or create the most resistance are the things most worth exploring, so a few days ago, I declared FUN my word of 2026. I felt pride in claiming the word, but it felt more like “FUN?” than “FUN!”. So, this morning, as I contemplated the year ahead, it struck me that authentic FUN requires absolute FAITH. To feel pure joy without requirements, I must release my fears. I must trust that I am on the right path, that my ultimate goal is give and receive more love. To give and receive more love, I must let go of guilt, judgment, and resistance. I wrote it down.

FAITH = FUN

So this year, I have two words. Faith is about releasing the remaining blocks, so I can feel joy more deeply and give my love more sincerely. I am pretty sure that if I work on these things, I will indeed experience a lot more Fun.

Here are a few things that feel fun right now.

1. Not resisting the random urge to dance. Whether it be at work, at home, or in another unexpected place, turn up the music and dance! I created a playlist with my boys here:

2. Leaning into the silly. I live with four and seven-year-old boys. This is the book I am reading with Sam on the train to school each day. We laugh so hard that we inspire other passengers to crack a smile. I highly recommend laughing on the train.

3. Solo trips to the museum, where I linger on whatever I want and sit down with a sketch book when feeling inspired. My favorite will always be The Met. It’s also my favorite happy place to browse for gifts.

4. Pinterest! Pinterest never makes me feel icky. This is a place to daydream and feel inspired. Less scrolling and more pinning in 2026.

5. Releasing! Listening to books on Spotify and not finishing the ones that don’t capture my heart. Guilt-free! Last year, I started close to 60 books and finished only about half. Instead of feeling flighty, I will understand that this is wise. There is no reason to spend time on texts that aren’t feeding my mind or soul.

6. Expression! Embracing clothing that feels fun (to me). Fun for me may not be wearing neon or sparkles, but it might be pairing something unusual simply because it feels good, even if it doesn’t fit my usual “look” and even if it is far left of the current trends. After so many years of working in fashion, it feels so nice to not strive for a look and simply flow with what feels exciting. Life is too short to stuff myself into a sartorial box all of the time. Simply following what feels good. Right now, I am loving lots of sheer layers, mixed with chunky textures like cable knit, cashmere leather, and fur. I love Frankie shop for sheer tops, skirts, and dresses. Silky long dresses with plush sweaters and boots. You can see my recent purchases here.

7. Impromptu gatherings! Releasing the need to be perfect and embracing ways to inspire lightheartedness. I’ll be leaving out the karaoke machine and keeping champagne on ice all year long.

8. Fancy! I’m going to use the silver and fine china! Wear the vintage fur! Dine in the formal dining room to enjoy the fire, even if it’s with paper plates or a bowl of chili. Mix the high and the low, and forget all the rules.

9. Filling my home with things that evoke the feelings I want to feel, rather than the look I want to achieve. Sentimental objects over decorative stuff. Truth over trends. Taking time to collect a space. Quality over quantity. Items with age and history. Books on the shelves that you actually want to read, or have read. Coffee table books that inspire you- full of post-it notes and bent pages. Lights that glow in just the right way. Textiles that comfort. Colors that soothe. Chairs that hold you. Art that moves you. (If I had any commission waitlist spots available, I would link them here.) Until then, check out some vintage original art I am loving on Etsy here.)

10. Permission! Give everyone permission to be themselves. My wish is that, as I have more faith and let the fun in, those around me will feel free to do the same. Less striving, more trusting. More being wholly and authentically who God created you to be. Fewer rules, more grace.

I also want to say that I realize Renderings does not have a formula, and that feels most authentic right now. To share from my heart - what is feeling real in the moment, and to never post something that feels forced. Substack will be this space. There is no content calendar and no real agenda - only sharing with love. You know what felt fun? Writing this entry without a plan in under one hour.

I wish everyone a very FUN 2026, full of faith and love!

With Love,

LP

1. Because just giving a candle feels so cliché, I’ll give my favorite Flamingo Estate personalized candle and monogrammed brass matchbox sleeve from Matilda Goad & Co | $177

2. For my designer and luxury-loving friend, I’ll give this sweet clover trinket tray from Dior | $110

3. I love pairing Gohar’s monogrammed Battenberg lace apron with a favorite bottle of champagne as a hostess gift | $38

4. Because everyone loves a good pajama and this one is so elegant, I’ll be gifting a friend (and myself) this modal kimono PJ set from Lake | $148

5. As a gift topper or as the main character, I’ll give these limewash tassle ornaments from my friends at Page House Studio | $48

6. I am excited to order these engraved sterling tassle bookmarks from Etsy. I’ll add initials or a special quote, tucked into a book that will vary based on the recipient. One crowd pleaser is A Return to Love by Marianne Williamson | $83

7. I’m giving these monogram leather notebooks and fountain pens from Papier to all of our teachers | $53

8. Personalized scalloped hand towels from Weezie are another wonderful hostess or holiday gift that anyone will enjoy | $98

9. As a gift for neighbors or as a hostess gift, I love this pewter salt cellar and spoon from Copper Beech alongside the best Maldon flake salt from Williams Sonoma | $81

10. This amaryllis bulb in a sculptural vase from Bulb House for my local NYC friends - these are so special and striking | $150

11. A sweet monogram mug from Williams Sonoma paired with gorgeously packaged and delicious sipping chocolate from Tuck Shop | $118

Of course, I hope you’ll include a Welcome Baby holiday card for everyone on your list this year. I had the honor of creating it for my friends at Welcome Baby. When they initially asked me to design it, I almost declined. I couldn’t wrap my head around how my commissioned art might translate to a holiday card. But then I started thinking about all the babies being born over the holidays, peering into snowy hospital windows where mother and child are experiencing those first moments together beyond the womb. I dreamed of what it might be like if that moment felt peaceful, and if they could forget about their stressors beyond the hospital walls for a moment. A Welcome Baby box will help allow for this moment of presence and love. They will know that, for now, their baby’s essential needs will be met, and they can just be mom.

Give the gift of peace to mothers and their newborns this holiday season. Available on Welcome Baby’s website, the purchase of this card helps provide struggling families with the essentials they need for their newborns’ first weeks of life.

And don’t forget, you can always forward this as your hint that you would love a gift certificate for a current or future commissioned artwork from the studio. I am biased, but there is nothing more meaningful than custom heirloom art of your loved ones.

I feel deep appreciation for each and every one of you. I wish everyone a joy-filled holiday season.

With love,

LP

It is officially fall, which means I am busy with commissions back in my NYC studio. This studio that I almost didn’t claim. An old friend and fellow portrait artist from Georgia stopped by last week. As I gave her a quick tour and we delighted in the architecture and history of the building, it was a welcome reminder to share more about this enchanting place and how it came to be.

When we moved to NYC back in 2012, we landed in the neighborhood of Gramercy Park. We were a half block away from the actual park, which meant no key access. I spent many evenings walking my two dogs around the perimeter of the park - dreaming of what it might be like to someday have a key. I would look up at the windows of The National Arts Club and imagine myself painting at an easel. This dream could not have been further from my reality at the time, as I was deep in my fashion career. I told my husband that in my retirement, I would somehow get a studio at The National Arts Club and blissfully paint my days away. Little did I know I was actively manifesting my next career move.

Fuelled by the pregnancy of my first son, I made the shocking decision to leave the fashion world. I began painting at home, but as my business grew, so did my need for space. After sneaking into empty classrooms at SVA (pumping breastmilk for my baby in janitor closets), followed by a chaotic shared studio (cubicle) experience, it was time to find a room of one’s own.

I had finally become a member at The National Arts Club when the scarce opportunity came to rent a tiny room in a back hallway with a small window and just enough light. It was perfect, but I almost didn’t do it. I didn’t feel worthy of such a space. The label of artist still felt like a pseudonym. I was terrified I wouldn’t be able to afford the rent, but my incredible mother-in-law gave me a final push by offering to help with my security deposit, buying me a little time. Suddenly, this dream was no longer a retirement plan but a thriving business.

In 2020, as my client list continued to expand, I inquired about the availability of larger spaces. I knew this was highly unlikely as these spaces are rare and available through a membership-only lottery system. I believe the pandemic worked in my favor, as a space soon became available. Upon viewing it, I immediately dismissed it as too large and too expensive. I laughed at the audacity of its spaciousness, light, and beauty, and went back to my little studio, deciding I could make do a while longer. But as the days passed, I had a nagging feeling that I was letting go of a dream simply because it felt too big. I finally came to my senses and signed the lease for the studio I had been dreaming of my whole life.

I feel deep appreciation for the opportunity to create in this dreamy space, in this historical building, where so many greats have lived and worked before me. I can see my apartment building from my studio window, and my commute home is literally a walk around the park...but now I have a key.

I hope to see you here in my studio soon to share in this magic with me. In the meantime, I hope you’ll allow yourself to dream and claim the thing that feels too big.

With Love,

LP

P.S.

You can see more of my space and work here.

If you’re shopping for a creative space of your own, here are some favorites from my studio.

I am a novice. I studied interior design for just one year, but watching my talented mother decorate on a dime and the joy it brought us to create spaces together has stayed with me. Now, I share a studio with my dear friend, Blake Brunson. She is a former protégée of Miles Redd and now runs her own successful design studio. Blake has been my creative partner for over a decade and my go-to when I feel I am losing my way or becoming too timid. So I write this entry with a lot of humility, and I think it will be fun for us to find our way together.

The kitchen is one of my favorite spaces at Haven House; it is bright and airy with windows everywhere. The layout is gracious and thoughtfully designed, and while I am not used to moving more than two steps to do anything in my intimate NYC kitchen, I am learning that a larger space, if well-appointed, can feel cozy and easeful just the same. The decorative painted floors are well-loved, so we will eventually reinvigorate them with a new design that shows less wear and paint the cabinets, as well as add a wall to create a mudroom. However, it will be some time before we renovate the kitchen, so for now, I am looking for effortless, inexpensive ways to add warmth and life to an all-white space.

Cheap Tricks

You don’t need a full renovation to make a big impact - there are many affordable yet effective ways to tailor your space.For example, I will paint the island base a warm gray - Revere Pewter, which appears throughout the home. This will help ground the white space without needing an all-over paint job.

I’m also adding polished nickel rails underneath the hanging cabinets so I can hang coffee cups. This is an easy way to make the space feel more customized, without bringing in a carpenter or adding architectural elements. 

Buying stonewear in bulk from a restaurant supply store is an unexpected yet cost-effective way to source chic, durable pieces for day use. This particular pattern is used at many of my favorite NYC restaurants.

A tip from Miles Redd and Blake Brunson - these IKEA dish towels also make great, no-iron dinner napkins.Perfect for everyday use when you don’t feel like using pressed linens. 

In With the Old

Antiques provide the perfect contrast to a stark white space.

I will be placing a wooden antique hutch from Taylor’s grandmother to add spirit, history, and warmth. I love a kitchen with free-standing furniture. It feels unexpected and lived-in. Layering a mix of old and new dinnerware for display will further enhance the look.

Vintage-inspired appliances, such as our toaster and coffee bean grinder, in warm neutrals, help the space feel less clinical.

Above the stove, I have a vintage tide clock. We go crabbing and fishing off the dock, and the rising tides rule our activities and life on the Great South Bay. I also like these by Tabic for coastal homes.

Signs of Life

Nancy Meyers’ kitchens embrace signs of life - details of who lives in the space. I have always been inclined to hide it all away, but I now find it far more interesting for a space to feel alive.

In this same spirit, I am being more intentional with the items left on display, and with far more counter space than in NYC, it doesn’t feel cluttered to have produce baskets, herb pots, flowers, cookbooks, and wooden utensils out on display.

I usually avoid glass cabinetry, but I’m enjoying the chance to use these little windows as proof of life and style. Behind the glass, you can see our scalloped stoneware, vintage-inspired glassware, cookbooks, wooden bowls, and painted pottery. Oils, condiments, and other items are grouped together in woven baskets or decanted into glass vessels with bamboo lids.

Original art, beautifully framed, truly enlivens a kitchen. I visited Etsy to source directly from artists and found some adorable watercolors, including an oyster for my son—a small nod to his obsession.

All the Feels

For any space, especially one lacking depth, I like incorporating a wide variety of textures. I hope to create a kitchen where guests can fully immerse their senses.

For softness, a cafe curtain above the sink, flanked by these adorable cordless sconces with pleated fabric shades, and tie-on cushions for our barstools will do the trick. There are several windows in the space. For the others, I will add bamboo chik shades to filter light while adding texture and warmth.

Produce and flowers (I know—ground-breaking!) on our island will add color and life.

A kitchen runner is on my list of things to source. I know this will be essential for creating a cozier environment. Please feel free to comment with your favorites or links! 

I’ll share pictures as I complete this easy update to the kitchen. I hope some of this is helpful if you're in a similar situation - not quite ready for a full renovation but needing quick fixes to refresh your space.

Sometimes I'll talk about interiors, other times about fashion, career, motherhood, and more. It will always be about sharing what feels relevant and how I genuinely feel I can be of service at the moment. I am so glad you are here.

With Love,

LP

What became clear is that Ina instinctively seeks fun - creating moments, meals, and spaces to delight herself and her guests. I was struck by her audacity to go for what felt right in her soul in every area of life. As a former workaholic and recovering perfectionist, I have a lot to learn about fun. I want more fun, and I really wanted to be able to walk into my backyard, clip herbs from a garden, and share handcrafted cocktails with friends. This is all highly ironic, as I haven't cooked regularly since we moved to the city almost 15 years ago, but I do love simple, artful cooking, and look forward to rekindling my creativity in this way. My mother kept lots of Ina cookbooks around, and I actually sat just in front of the icon on a flight to Palm Beach last year. She didn’t disappoint in her iconic crisp button-down and silk scarf. I only wish I had said hello.

Bellport Village and Brookhaven Hamlet, located on the south shore of Long Island, are known for their historic charm, scenic waterfront, and vibrant artistic community. We started traveling to Bellport when Sam was a baby and immediately fell in love with the village's quaint charm and laidback vibe. We immediately knew this was our special place, and after four years of shopping, we found a 175-year-old colonial in Brookhaven with an expansive lot and, in our backyard, a dock on Beaver Dam Creek leading out to the Great South Bay. It felt like a fairytale dream come true.

Every great house deserves a name, and in the spirit of Ina, it just felt like a FUN idea. Thus, Haven House was born.

My mom was a woman of incredible creative talents and was a "Martha" in her own right. She faux finished walls and cabinets, tiled the kitchen floor, and sewed curtains and pillows for all of our homes. She is the reason I chose interior design as my major before eventually changing to apparel and textiles. In the spirit of Martha and Jonnie Fay, I look forward to rolling up my sleeves, painting, crafting, and enjoying the slow evolution of this spirited space.

The magic of a historic house is in the traces of families’ pasts, and I want to honor the many lives and histories that have lived within these walls. My goal is to create a comfortable home full of elegance and joy, where colonial architecture meets the southern charm of my upbringing. My current scheming process involves lots of research, marrying historical references with contemporary curation, celebrating its history while making it all our own.

Influenced by early American colonial styles and English design, some historical references that I am excited to honor in Haven House include:

• simple furniture made of local wood

• clean lines and curves of the architecture, mirrored in the furnishings

• hand-whitewashed furniture

• handmade natural textiles like quilts and rugs

• a muted color palette

Here is a peek at some of the paint colors I will be using. I will share room schemes in the coming months as we progress.

I am so excited to share all of my Haven House adventures with you. Stay tuned next entry for an in-depth guide to how I’m bringing warmth and personality to my white kitchen.

rend·er·ing

/ˈrend(ə)riNG/

noun

plural noun: renderings

1. A lifelike work of visual art

2. The action of giving

I have always considered my work a balance between service and artful storytelling. Here, I'll go beyond my NYC art studio and share the stories, inspirations, and moments that shape my work and life.

If you've been following my work for a while, you know that my core source of inspiration is what I discovered after I lost my 47-year-old mother to brain cancer. When I became pregnant with my first child, I longed to reconnect with her. I wanted to remember her essence - her unabashed love for life, even in the darkest of times. I found that my most vivid memories of her were not the milestone events but the simplest times spent together: the way she gently pushed my hair out of my face while reading me a bedtime story, the songs she sang in her sweet off key voice, painting and sewing together, or the way she said "sleep sweet" before closing my door each night. Now, I seek to live in those little moments, find the joy in the everyday, and express that beauty with my work.

Renderings is a love letter to the small things - the seemingly insignificant moments which are everything in the end. From my life in NYC raising two boys, and beyond, I invite you to explore both the grand and the minute, the high and the low, the extraordinary and the everyday.

Just outside of the charming village of Bellport, in Brookhaven, Long Island, our journey together begins with "Haven House," our new/old 1850s colonial home. I'll share insights on creating a home with beauty and feeling, my latest finds, and all my amateur DIY attempts along the way.

After 18 years in fashion, I will undoubtedly share what I'm wearing and what's inspiring my style right now—because style, like art, tells a story.

And, of course, in the studio, you'll get a behind-the-scenes look at my artistic process: the sparks of inspiration and the narratives behind the work.

Here's what you'll see in Renderings:

• Studio Life – Behind-the-scenes glimpses, techniques, and stories.

• Special Projects – A closer look at my book projects, interviews with friends across various fields, and events.

• Style– The ongoing transformation of our historic home, plus my favorite high and low home and fashion finds.

• Motherhood – Honest reflections on parenting while nurturing a creative life in NYC and beyond.

Please join me as we relish together in the little and big things, seeking sparks of joy and inspiration every step of the way.

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