I explore the quiet joy of making art by hand in an age when AI can mimic almost anything — except the human heart behind it. Discover why a simple “quiet hello” in the mail still matters, offering comfort, connection, and a small treat in a digital world. It’s a reflection on the value of handmade work and why our human impulses are more worth celebrating than ever.

Real letters are more than mail — they’re keepsakes, pauses, and tiny hugs in a fast-paced digital life. Rediscover the joy of real letters with Cottage Letters — each one a personal story, poem, and art print mailed just for you.

What do you do when there is a strike? Well there are some practices that need practicing. Let’s navigate this one together.

“And all at once, summer collapsed into fall.”

Oh Oscar Wilde sure could whip up a nice quote.

If I were to coach someone on STARTING a creative practice, it would be this 5 step process.

Sometimes the best adventures are just down the road. In this post, I share the quiet joys of exploring familiar places with fresh eyes.

This is my summer book haul from a recent trip to London.

Why is the lap blanket an image reserved for the elderly? For one, the elderly have lived long enough to know a good thing. A warm set of legs keeps the whole body feeling cozy out there on the cool patio.

Gingham dresses are back with the warm weather. Plus, I’ve whipped up a new set of notecards in the shop… featuring, you guessed it, gingham dresses.

A shift is unfolding, a quiet rebellion against the pixelated world. We’re craving something real again. Something we can hold in our hands.

This thought started with letters. I should have known.

Beautiful people everywhere.

We had local elections this week. I’ve worked at these elections before. Let me explain why it’s one of my favourite jobs ever. Enlightenment galore!

“Cottage Letters” by Janice MacLeod is a delightful monthly mail subscription that brings the charm of handwritten letters to your doorstep. Each month, receive an exquisitely crafted letter accompanied by unique ephemera, such as postcards, holiday cards, or bookmarks, all beautifully packaged to brighten your day. Themes explore life, the changing seasons, and gardening, cottagecore, and hygge.

A user’s guide to mastering midlife. Ten tips to navigate the journey with Janice MacLeod.

Turns out, staring off in the middle distance helps. And a porch.

All it takes to win big at the county fair is a lot of planning, loads of art supplies, and a taste for ribbons. Check out the silly fun we had at our recent ribbon-laden county fair.

Autumn and Paris. The best combination.

A little behind the scenes of getting into People magazine. It’s not all coffees and croissants.