• Hardcover Book - 6”x9”

• Matte soft-touch cover finish // 80# matte interior pages

This book contains over 100 pages of writings and paintings by Kelley Ogburn, all created as entries during the stay at home orders. Her thoughts, words, and creations extend beyond this specific point in time, are applicable every day. Make it a good one!

One morning, in the midst of all of the chaos and uncertainty within the early stages of the coronavirus pandemic — when we were all staying at home working and schooling — I was moved to paint. It had been weeks since I had been able to work, and I woke with determination. I knew exactly what I wanted to create. I painted from a palm that was growing by my studio, and wrote on it “This is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice.” I desperately needed that reminder. That there is something to rejoice in every day. I felt like others might need this reminder, too. So, I tore it from my sketch book, took a picture of it, and posted it — sending good thoughts out into this tumultuous world of ours. Job done.

Or was it? Before too long, someone reached out to me about this piece. It reminded her of her mother. It was something that her mother had always said. This gave me such a sense of connection. To her. To the past. To the present. To the world around us. A much-needed connection during this time apart.

So I began this journey. I started creating and writing entries every day. Whatever was happening, whatever I was experiencing, feeling, or thinking on that day was written down and sketched out. It helped me to gain focus and find connection. It helped me realize that no matter what is happening around us, there is beauty and purpose in each day. That love and kindness abound. This gave me perspective amidst all of the uncertainties. It gave me the ability to make each day a good one (if even for a moment!).

“Make it a good day” is something that my dad always tells me. A reminder that I have the ability to make each day a good one. That it’s all in how I choose to look at things. Although the thoughts, feelings, and emotions found in these pages are a part of my journey, I hope you find some things that you can relate to. Things that you can connect with. Whether as a reminder of what we have been through, or as an aid for things yet to come, I hope this book gives you some comfort and perspective. A new appreciation for the world around us. Remembering to take pause and consider its importance. Rejoicing in it!