Evolution in Motion – Creative Growth, Fencing Fundraisers, and Tiny Gnome Magic

 As I embrace my word for 2025—Evolution—I’ve been feeling the shift in both my personal and creative journey. The past few weeks have been a whirlwind of tiny creations, big plans, and meaningful projects, and I can’t wait to share what’s been happening behind the scenes at Heart n Soul Studios!

Tiny Gnomes, Big Energy

I officially introduced my newest obsession—Tiny Gnomes! These little guys might be small, (but bigger than the Lucky Pocket Gnomes), but they’re packed with personality.  I knew they’d be popular, people are already asking to purchase them. I'm still creating this spring collection of 9 different styles, only 25 of each design. That means 225 Tiny Gnomes in my workshop, waiting to bring a little magic into your life! From Ladybug Gnomes to Shamrock Gnomes, this collection is pure springtime joy.

Fencing Fundraiser – A Cause Close to My Heart

While my hands have been covered in clay, my mind has been on another important project—helping raise funds for my son’s high school fencing team. The Passaic Valley Fencing Team is in dire need of new fencing strips. The ones they currently have are worn out and taped down for every practice and meet, which isn’t ideal for safety or performance. With 22 students (9 girls and 13 boys) dedicated to the sport, I want to do everything I can to help them get what they need. Stay tuned for fundraising efforts—I’d love for the Heart n Soul community to be part of this!

What’s Next?

With the Goblin Market on March 2nd as my first event of the year, I’m gearing up for an exciting season. I’m also working on red mushroom jars that make the cutest tooth fairy jars (perfect for little ones to place on a windowsill!) or small keepsake holders for adults. And of course, I’ll be adding even more magical creations to the shop in the coming weeks.

✨ Thank you for visiting—may these treasures bring love and light to your journey. ✨

You are loved!
xoxoxox
Maria

Well that didn't last long

 

TikTok is back! That did not last long at all. I'm already to learn about posting instead of just watching. I know the secret sauce is talking about your life and telling stories. I'm not sure what I will but I will start to do something.

When TikTok Goes Silent: A Gnome Maker’s Reflection

Today is a strange day—TikTok is down/gone/offline, and I’m feeling its absence in a big way. For me,
TikTok wasn’t just an app; it was an escape from reality, a place where my kids and I could immerse ourselves in the creativity and knowledge of amazing creators. From laughs to lessons, it gave us something special—an endless source of inspiration.

We were NOT  big posters. Looking back, I wonder, what if I’d leaned into it more? What if I’d been braver, more consistent? Maybe I could’ve built a following. But fear held me back, and I only dipped my toes into Instagram reels in 2024.

That said, it’s never too late, right?

As I sit here claying today, shaping gnomes  I can’t help but think about how much TikTok allowed us to connect with others and how much more I want to do when (or if) it returns. The downtime is a reminder to seize opportunities, step outside of my comfort zone, and keep building on what I’ve started. 

TikTok or no TikTok, I want to continue sharing the magic of what I create, because I know these whimsical little gnomes and dragons have the power to bring joy and light to people’s lives. So when the app comes back, I’ll be ready. Ready to post more consistently, to engage more freely, and to bring my corner of creativity to the world in ways I’ve only dreamed of until now.

For now, I’m focusing on the clay in front of me, one little creation at a time, while dreaming about what’s next. If TikTok’s return brings a new chapter, I’m determined to make it a magical one. Stay tuned—you never know where this journey will take me next!

You are loved!

Maria