Make It with Joy: Amy’s Market Magic

What if creativity wasn’t about mastering a craft, but about returning to what you love?

Every so often, someone reminds you why you create in the first place.

Amy did that for me.

I met her again at the Sterling Street Market — same spot, same joy. Years ago, I bought an ice cream card she made and sent it to my nephew. It was full of personality, a little burst of happiness on paper.

This weekend, I found her again — still sharing her cards, still radiating that same joy.

What I learned this time: Amy swims. She dances. She competed in the Special Olympics in a hip hop event. She moves through the world with freedom — and her art reflects that. She doesn't overthink it. She makes what she loves and puts it out there, boldly and simply.

Letting Joy Lead

Amy reminded me that creativity doesn’t always need a goal.

It can just be for the joy of it.

There’s a kind of quiet magic in showing up to make something because you want to — not to impress, not to perfect — just because it brings you happiness.

That’s what Amy does.

And that’s the energy I want to carry with me:
Joyful. Uncomplicated. Real.

What Amy Taught Me

You don’t have to be a professional.
You don’t have to make something grand.
You just have to care.

Her cards, like her presence, are light-filled reminders to keep making art that reflects your heart. To keep showing up. To keep choosing joy.

Thank you, Amy, for being a living reminder of what it means to create with a childlike heart — and to share it with the world.