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Creativity blooms across generations in this heartwarming episode recorded while traveling in Seattle with my granddaughters Jojo (5) and Franny (7). Surrounded by the Pacific Northwest's lush plant life and buzzing insects, we embark on a ladybug-themed art project that captures the magic of making art with children.

Armed with watercolor paints and paper, we create vibrantly unconventional ladybugs – Jojo opts for a royal purple while Franny chooses sunny yellow. Throughout our painting session, we share delightful conversations about bugs, art preferences, and even a traditional ladybug nursery rhyme from my childhood. The girls offer their unique perspectives, with Franny confidently informing me that ladybugs eat raisins, showcasing the wonderful imagination that children bring to creative sessions.

The project evolves beyond simple painting as we transform our two-dimensional artwork into pop-up creations. Using scissors, glue sticks, and folded paper, we engineer our ladybugs to stand up on their painted leaves and flowers. The process becomes a lesson in spatial awareness, fine motor skills, and problem-solving disguised as play. All the while, the natural conversation flows between us reveals glimpses into their lives – from video games to face painting adventures from previous visits.

This episode serves as a reminder of art's power to connect across ages. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, teacher, or creative adult with children in your life, I hope this inspires you to sit down for a simple crafting session with the young people you care about. The masterpieces you'll treasure most aren't the physical creations but the memories and bonds strengthened through creative collaboration. Why not gather some basic art supplies and create your own "buggy" adventure today?

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Have you ever wondered what would happen if you trusted your wildest creative ideas and actually built a business around them?

On this special anniversary episode, I'm celebrating one year since the ribbon-cutting ceremony of Brewtifully and reflecting on the incredible journey of transforming an unconventional vision into a thriving creative space. When people ask how I developed this business model, they're often surprised to learn I literally made it up from scratch – no franchise, no template, just a clear vision of what I wanted to create for my community.

The path hasn't been without challenges. Transitioning from full-time employment to entrepreneurship brought sleepless nights wondering if bills would get paid or if my ideas would resonate. Yet the fulfillment of building something authentically mine has been worth every moment of uncertainty. What began as a desire to support local artists and provide a creative haven has exceeded expectations – we're now booked with artists through 2026 and halfway through 2027, attracting creators from across the region.

I share the pivotal role mentors played in refining my vision without dampening it, particularly through our local SCORE chapter. Their expertise helped transform my ideas into a viable business plan while encouraging me to maintain the uniqueness that makes Brutally Made special. This episode offers honest insights about embracing imperfection, taking daily steps toward your dreams, and the power of authenticity over perfection.

Whether you're harboring creative aspirations or simply need inspiration to trust your instincts, this anniversary reflection might be the gentle push you need. Your dreams don't require perfection – they just require you to begin. What creative vision are you ready to bring into the world?

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Portfolio website: Brewtifully.com
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LinkedIn: Tracy Dawn Brewer

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Creativity becomes a powerful healing journey in this intimate conversation with Bryan, a retired Air Force Master Sergeant whose miniature dioramas transform military experiences into art. After 22 years of service, nine deployments, and multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, Bryan discovered that crafting detailed miniature scenes offered both creative fulfillment and therapeutic relief from PTSD.

What began as a way to honor Medal of Honor recipients he personally met evolved into a passionate artistic practice. Bryan shares the meticulous process behind his creations—from scratch-building his early works to embracing 3D printing technology, while maintaining his commitment to authentic details in uniforms, equipment, and environments. Each model tells a specific story, whether commemorating fallen comrades, recreating battlefield moments, or playfully transforming their French bulldog into "Boba Thor."

Tracy, both podcast host and Bryan's wife, offers unique insights into how this artistic outlet has helped him process military experiences and emerge from his shell. The exhibition at Brewtifully showcases not just his 22 models and selection of bonsai trees, but also represents the healing power of creative expression for veterans.

For those inspired by Bryan's journey, he's teaching a model painting workshop on September 29th and welcomes commission requests. Don't miss viewing his remarkable work in person or through the YouTube slideshow—each piece bridges military experience with artistic expression in profoundly moving ways.

Support the show

Catch the doodles on YouTube

My socials:
Sign up for my monthly newsletter
Portfolio website: Brewtifully.com
Instagram: /Brewtifully
Facebook: /brewtifully
TikTok: GettingSmallwithGrandma
LinkedIn: Tracy Dawn Brewer