The Orange Hours
Reflections on Intentions, Not Resolutions
These collages were made while I was waiting for a decision on a contract job last year. On the first day, I created and shared The Red Hour collages, which garnered some wonderful comments. Thank you for your warm responses and reshares—I truly appreciate them.
On day two of waiting, I chose orange paper as a theme, and these pieces emerged from that session.
The color orange seems fitting for the new year. It feels optimistic and hopeful, energetic and playful–qualities I want to carry forward.
I’m not big on resolutions.
I’ve learned that setting them is equivalent to setting expectations—a recipe for disappointment. Instead, I focus on intentions, which feel more gentle, less pressure. They’re broad, not specific: be kind, grateful, create, eat to live, move. They’re not boxes to check off on a list; they’re constant and sustainable. Each day brings another chance to begin with intention. I’m less likely to feel disappointed with myself this way.
And so, I'm starting the year with whimsy told through these collages—playful, unresolved, full of possibility. May your year be expansive with ideas and filled with wonder!
You might also be interested in this:
The Red Hours
My mind was beginning to spiral, waiting to hear back for a possible contract job next year. The waiting in the moments in between is excruciating, especially when I let myself be idle.
Marica Notecards
Inspired by my sister Marica’s love of coffee, the Golden Hour Wildflower notecards features delicate whimsical flowers blooming from vintage coffee cups—tender, hopeful, and full of quiet possibility.
Begin the year with intention— share words of encouragement or gratitude, or offer a simple reminder that someone is loved.
Thank you for inviting me to join you every Sunday in your inbox. I am grateful and appreciative for spending a small part of your day with me. If you have the means to support Sundays with Stella, please consider becoming a paid subscriber. Those who contribute financially will ensure that this place of inspiration, creativity, and meaning remains free and open to all.
ANOTHER WAY TO SUPPORT SUNDAYS WITH STELLA
By request, I’ve created a support page where you can contribute in any amount—via credit card, PayPal, or Venmo. Your generosity helps keep this space open and accessible to all. Thank you, always, for reading.
If this post inspired you, would you be so kind as to share it with others?
The orange series is such fun! Beautifully done. Here’s to good intentions. All the best dear Stella.
Insane series! Love love love!