Ignite possibilities

Creative Environments

The Value of Getting Uncomfortable

Our family just returned from a two-week vacation rafting through the Grand Canyon.  The majestic river, desert hiking, and unplugged atmosphere were superb.  When asked about his trip, my thirteen-year-old son said, “It was awesome.”  With a twinkle in his eye he continued, “I did the most things that made me uncomfortable of any trip that I’ve taken.”  This came from a boy who’s biked through remote villages in Tanzania, climbed to 17,000 feet on Mt. Kilimanjaro, hiked through the … Read more


SparkFire President Chris Fagan Heads to the South Pole!

SparkFire helps businesses and entrepreneurs ignite creativity, imagine possibilities, and push outside comfort zones.  Now SparkFire’s President Chris Fagan puts these principles into practice on a personal quest in Antarctica.

In late November, Chris Fagan and her husband Marty will fly to Antarctica to set off on an expedition with no guides or resupply. They will attempt to become the first American married couple to ski 570 miles from the edge of the continent, where land meets sea, to the Read more


Keeping a Vacation Mindset

As I wait out the long, cold winter, I can’t help but daydream about my vacation last summer.  The awe-inspiring beauty of Gimmelwald, Switzerland and Chamonix, France are unmatched.  Once I turned off my email, shut down my cell phone and became fully present, the stage was set for a wonderful vacation.

What I most long for now is the vacation mindset – the energy, enthusiasm and feeling of renewal that comes with vacation.   Upon returning home and re-entering the … Read more


The Art of Creating Fine Wood Furniture

Ken Richards, fine furniture maker for the past 30 years, approaches each project with the attitude of an artist.  “I am not just trying to create beautiful furniture, I want to create works of art,” says Ken.  From initial inspiration to delivery of the final product, Ken meticulously completes every detail himself, ensuring the highest quality and the full expression of his design vision.  He is a rare breed, working with the finest materials and designing pieces that take incredible … Read more


Treehouse Inspiration

When I see  a treehouse, I’m filled with a sense of curiosity and wonder, excited to explore inside. Since my family is in the process of building a treehouse, I jumped at the chance to attended a recent book signing by Seattle author Pete Nelson who shared insights from his most recent book “New Treehouses of the World.”

Pete’s book takes readers on an exciting international tour of more than 35 new treehouses.  Each photo and accompanying description invite you … Read more


Go Off Leash

I live in the Northwest, home of many dog lovers (like myself) who adore playing in the outdoors with their furry friends.  Not surprising, off leash dog parks and trails are quite popular.   Ever notice how a dog acts when off leash?  A mild mannered dog transforms into a passionate playmate that runs with abandon, jumps, pounces and smiles enthusiastically.

There may be something to learn from off leash dogs. It seems to me that many workplaces keep employees on … Read more