I need beta readers! If this sounds like an activity you’d like to take on, you can read the details on my Substack at justusjoseph.substack.com/p...

My tiny dogs are my first readers and listen with rapt attention (with a few asks to toss the ball) as I read aloud. These tiny monsters teach me to stay in the moment, which is good because that’s where story happens. They don’t know what I do, but they’re my biggest fans.

#MondayIsForMonsters

Coming up for breath after a fun series of watercolour portraits for clients! I love doing these — each one creates such a peaceful space.

#WatercolourPetPortrait

While no one wants to be a member, welcome to the Wink Club and heal well!

My body is concrete, so I took myself Halloween browsing during my dog’s grooming appointment, and though my body’s no better, my dark heart is quite happy.

September is for Skeletons.

Obsessing over all the details and textures and intricacies of this little scrap of Sechelt beach. The urge to sculpt them feels frantic.

Please enjoy Emerson Trotter getting ready for winter.

Most recent book rec from Seattle’s Elliott Bay. Read it in one train trip (SEA to YVR), which should tell you I enjoyed it. #WhatToRead

We sleep with the windows open, the ocean’s roar our lullaby, and cold salt air that chases us deep into our blankets. When we wake, we write and snack and talk and laugh. C’est parfait.

Spent a morning at the Portland Art Museum to see Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio exhibit, and my sculpture heart is screaming to get back to the studio.