5 Things... with Blake Blackmon

This new series takes you behind-the-scenes into the "creative diets" of our staff. Each week, one of us will share a list of five things that grabbed our attention or inspired us creatively that week.

This week's list is from our Content Creator, Blake Blackmon. These are the things Blake would share with you over coffee this week if she could. (We're diving in with you, too!)

One: This Key Lime Pie

photo from Food52

Key Lime Pie takes my mind instantly to the beach and summer. It was always my choice dessert growing up when my family would take beach trips and that connotation is something that will always be there for me. This past week I brought a bit of the beach to Columbus with homemade Key Lime Pie. The process? Surprisingly simple. The results? Let’s just say the pie did not last long in our house. Limited ingredients, ease and delicious results make this recipe a keeper in my book.

Two: This Writing Workshop

Image and words by Morgan Harper Nichols

This writing workshop with Morgan Harper Nichols is a breath of fresh air. I’ve been following @morganharpernichols for awhile now. Her illustrations and moving poetry are a wellspring of creativity and encouragement for your Instagram feed. I stumbled upon this writing workshop she led for Barre3 when I was actually looking for online workouts (ha) and, needless to say, I ended up inspired rather than sweating. It’s a great class whether you consider yourself a writer or not. She also mentions one of my favorite books about writing and life: Bird by Bird by Anne Lamont. If you find yourself craving more after this class, I highly recommend ordering it!

Three: Blanche's New Collar from Rifle Paper Co.

Photo by DB Woolbright

I adopted my first puppy, Blanche, this past September and she turned one last week! In celebration, I thought it was time to graduate from her puppy harness to a big girl collar. I shopped around and fell in love with the Foggy Dog x Rifle Paper Co. collars. I’ve been obsessed with Rifle Paper Co. for a while, and was so excited to find a collar that reflected my tastes and looks so cute on my pup. For an extra dose of celebration, I purchased this dog ice cream from Publix and it was a hit! It also was so cute to watch the dogs eat it. 10/10 recommend for a special dog treat and human entertainment.

Four: This Episode of Reply All

This specific episode of “Reply All” is the first podcast in a while to completely grab my attention. It was a welcome distraction and kept me on my toes the entire episode. I don’t want to spoil anything, but definitely give it a listen if you’re in need of distraction and entertainment. Their episodes are always a treat, but this might be my favorite yet. I also love their new “The Attic and Closet Show” episodes where they talk to people around the world about how they’re handling life in the time of the COVID-19. It’s a more serious and timely listen that truly shows how connected the world is during this time of crisis.

Five: The Work of Katie Burke

Images by Zachary Francois, Textiles by Kate Burke

Atlanta-based mixed-media and textile artist Kate Burke posted the most gorgeous collaboration photos of her work with Zachary Francois, and I can’t stop thinking about them. Burke’s unique pieces combine textiles and words to create beautiful and multidimensional works of art. Check out her work on her Instagram or website. I’m also obsessed with this beautiful piece below. ◼︎