felicia – Felicia Thomas

0 In Felicia the Artist

3 Simple Steps

3 Simple Steps to start your positivity journey.

People say: ” I’ve read the books, watched the videos, I know I should be thinking positively.. So why aren’t I doing it?”

Positive thinking isn’t an automatic mindset. You can’t do it because it’s a habit that needs to be built and strengthened by reputation.

So here are 3 simple steps to start building your positive mindset habit, starting today.

1. Anchor it to something you already do. Don’t add a new task to your day – attach it to brushing your teeth, making coffee, sitting at your desk. The moment that action starts, that’s your cue to do step 2.

2. Name one true good thing. Not “everything is amazing” – just one specific thing that is true right now. ” my coffee smells good”, “I slept well”, “someone smiled at me yesterday”.

3. Say it out loud ( yes, really!) thoughts are slippery, words spoken stick. Even whispered ones. This tiny act tells your brain: this is real, I am allowed to notice it.

That’s it. 3 steps. 90 seconds tops.

Do it for a week and you’ll notice your brain searching for the good things.

If you try it, let me know what “one good thing” you noticed today.

Building this habit is where you start to change your mindset, and changing your mindset can change your World.

xxFxx

25/07/2026 By felicia

0 In Felicia the Artist

Does this sound familiar?

You have totally exhausted yourself over the years by always putting everyone else first.

Your children, your partner, your job, your parents, siblings, that friend who always has a drama going on…. and you have done it willingly because you are the very best Mum, partner, sister, friend, employee / co worker that you can possibly be.

You’ve kept the house running, the bills paid on time, the laundry done, the fridge filled, cooked, cleaned and been the Mum taxi and held down a job.

Again, you have done it willingly.

Now, along with all that did you also take on the responsibility for everyone else’s happiness? You tried to fix every single issue.

Am I the only one who lived by that saying, ” You are only as happy as your unhappiest child” ?

No, I didn’t think so.

And that might not have been just your children, it was everyone – all those people, partner, parents, friends, boss etc.

So, here is a question.

What would it feel like to be able to think about you and your feelings? ( if you immediately felt a tightness in your body when you read that, then I see you, trust me, I KNOW that feeling).

To be able to say “No” occasionally and NOT FEEL GULTY?

For me it was always the guilt.

Do I want to do that thing, go to that place, give up the one morning I had off because someone else had something come up?

No!

But did I do all those things? yes, because otherwise the guilt would consume me. I would wake up at 2.30 in the morning ( it was ALWAYS 2.30, my ultimate doom time) catastrophising the days events, how I could have done more, how I could help that person resolve their problem. Their problem became my problem but my mind multiplied it by about a thousand.

That was my life before I found a coach. She actually started coaching me around my business but she saw something in me that life coaching could help more.

Meeting that coach was the start of a very deep dive. The first hurdle was allowing myself to spend money on a coach for myself. There was so many other things I could have spent that money on, surely there was nothing really wrong with me? Didn’t I have a lovely life? I wasn’t the kind of person that had a life coach…..

I went on to do an awful lot of work on myself, my beliefs, my patterns, especially why I held that guilt and took on so much responsibility for others. It was that journey that led me to becoming an accredited coach myself.

I could see how much this work had changed my life and I want to help as many women (and men, but it’s mostly women who come to me) as possible to claim back their best lives.

Of course, I still love to do things for my family, I’m more than happy to do it, but now I have these little things called boundaries. I understand that self care isn’t selfish and that I don’t need to take on everyone’s stress.

And guess what?

It’s actually improved my relationship with the people I love.

My head is so much calmer. My body isn’t constantly in panic mode. My sleep has improved, I have tools to deal with situations that arise ( and they still do!)

If you recognise yourself in this and have any questions, then please feel free to get in touch. You can book a free ‘Next Chapter’ call to discuss whether we could work together, or simply message me.

F xx

04/06/2026 By felicia

0 In Felicia the Artist

Identity

Identity.

This is an exercise that I did with a my art journal group last night.

We were talking about the identity of the women who lives our dream life as apposed to who we are currently. We looked at who that person is, how she thinks and how her life feels to her.

It was a really valuable exercise in understanding the importance of embodiment.

If you’d like to do this for yourself then keep reading.

Get comfortable, take some calming breaths and then write down your answers in as much detail as you can.

Identity Exercise:

I would like you to take a few minutes to think about your dream life.

WHO are you in that life?

Write down a few points – physically how do you look?

What are you wearing? Do you go to the hairdresser or beautician regularly?

What car do you drive, where do you live?

Then write down HOW she thinks.

Is she confident, self assured, outspoken?

Does she trust her own judgement?

How do other people react ot her?

Now, how does it FEEL to be her?

Is there a feeling of excitement, calm or acceptance when you think of being her?

Is your mind more relaxed, less stressed about everyday life?

Now, that energy, that little spark of excitement, that is the feeling we need to harness to step out of our current identity and into being HER!

You might only want to change a few small things or you might want to change things completely.

The point is, these things are achievable. Maybe not immediately – if your vision was a multi millionaire that is not likely to happen overnight (though not impossible). If you suffer from poor physical or mental health, then your dream might be to wake up pain free and excited to face the day.

You have to take small, consistent steps into that identity.

The women you are now is a product of conditioning, from your parents, beliefs that you have stored up about yourself, money blocks, the circumstances you grew up in. They all keep you safe and unfortunately that can also mean stuck.

Of course there are situations and circumstances we can’t control but we CAN control how we react to them.

By changing your mindset, by practicing gratitude, by journaling – you have to write it to invite remember – these are the first steps to becoming HER.

So gather your affirmations, no matter how outrageous they seem and create your journal page.

Write with passion, write with belief and find your joy in doing it!

Work with me:

This is what I do as a mindset coach.

I help you go from where you are to where you want to be.

If you are interested in working with me I am opening up 3 spots for group coaching starting in January.

It’s a 4 week course with 3 one hour weekly meetings and then a one to one call with each person

to wrap up the course.

The cost will be €500, but for anyone who signs up by the end of November the cost will be €400.

Email me here if you would like to book a call to see if this is for you.

Have a great day!

xx F xx

18/11/2025 By felicia

In Blogging

Back to School – with all the emotions

How?? How is it already the end of August? The summer has been lovely and I’m celebrating the end of it before I slink into my absolute favourite season of Autumn.

When my kids were younger this time of year was referred to as ‘The season of new pencil cases and new boots’ – pencil cases for them (amongst many other things) and new boots for me!

To me, the first of September feels like a new beginning, a fresh start, a time to take up new things – also, you know the Hogwarts Express leaves at 11am so it’s a sure sign school is starting back

Joking aside it can also be a tough time for us.

It might be a time of big changes in your family. If you have children they could be starting pre school, changing schools or leaving for college and that changes your role.

When my son (my youngest child) went to college it took me a full year to adjust. For twenty years my days had revolved around school hours. Once they came home my time was spent ferrying them to activities, making dinner, homework, finding out they had a project due the following day, even though they had known about it for a week…….. I’m sure you know how it is.

Then suddenly no one was coming home.

My days off work were staring at me, I had plenty to do but I couldn’t make myself do anything in the afternoons. It took ages to be comfortable with the fact that If I chose to drive to Cork (an hour and 15 minutes away) at 2pm I could. There was no rush to get back but it just felt so wrong!

When I journaled on this what came up was:

If I’m not a mum then what am I?

Obviously I am still a mum, but my role had dramatically changed.

I was questioning my value and that is a bigger issue then I had realised.

If you find yourself going through any of those feelings then use your journal to get them out of your head.

Come over to my private Facebook group where you will find a list of prompts for this exercise.

If you’ve come over from LinkedIn then welcome! I’d love to see you in the group.

Felicia xx

25/08/2025 By felicia

In Felicia the Artist

Art Journaling & Manifestation for Beginners!

Hello,

I have recently created my first Facebook group called ‘Manifest your Sparkle!’

This is a private group that allows a safe & fun place for members to start their manifesting journey through art journaling.

I hope to make a really cosy spot for you to visit, where you will meet other women who are having the same struggles as you, where there is no judgement as we face what being women who are exhausted from everything we do for everyone else means.

Now, I know we willingly do these things, I LOVE my life with my madly busy family.

But when you have children, even adult children, a demanding job, elderly parents, partners, husbands & houses to run it can all mean we forget to look after ourselves.

Well that’s what happened to me at least. I forgot about the women I wanted to be and lost a bit of my magic.

That was several years, I was already a fan of art journaling but I started to study manifestation and when I combined the two amazing things started to happen!

————————————————————————

Manifestation-

Now, manifestation is a huge topic that I could talk about for hours – there are so many aspects to it.

It is often considered woowoo or some sort of hippy nonsense, but it is actually proven neuroscience.

I am not a scientist. But I have know enough to have changed my thinking and my outlook and have manifested so many fantastic things into my life – which in turn has given me my sparkle back. (Hence that name).

I would love you to come and join me. There will be cosy chats and art tutorials, manifestation stories and practices for you to follow.

Here are some of the FAQ’s I had so far:

Who can join? –

This is a women only group, originally for women in their 40’s, 50’s, 60’s but younger or older is fine too!

2. I’m no good at art, can I still join?

Yes!! art journaling has no rules. It can be as simple as adding flowers cut out of a magazine, anything that makes you happy!

3. Do I have to share my journal on the group?

Absolutely not. If you want to share a page that is fine, but your journal is your private space so there is no pressure to share it.

I haven’t officially opened the group yet, but you can join now and download this free PDF to get started.

Download the PDF here.

Please share this with anyone you think would be interested, the more the merrier!

Have a lovely day,

Felicia xx

As always, I’d love to hear from you, you can email me here.

14/06/2025 By felicia

In Felicia the Artist

Painting Paths to Inner Peace.

‘Painting Paths to Inner Peace’ is an immersive art program designed to foster mental wellness, team building and stress relief within corporate environments.

Through sessions that combine mixed media art techniques, visualization and relaxation skills, employees will embark on a journey of self-discovery, creativity and personal development.

P.P.I.P. offers a holistic approach to corporate wellness. Integrating art, manifestation and problem solving skills it promotes a healthy and harmonious work environment and increases motivation.

Through creative expression and shared experiences, participants will emerge refreshed, inspired and equipped with valuable tools for navigating the challenges of modern life, both at work and day to day.

Artistic skill is not a prerequisite, the focus is on self expression and self care.

Team building.

These sessions work by encouraging camaraderie and trust through shared creative experiences, breaking down barriers and promoting a sense of belonging.

Empowering participants to support each other in their artistic journeys, fostering a culture of collaboration, empathy and self empowerment.

Provide practical tools and techniques for managing stress and maintaining mental well-being in the workplace.

Highlight the role of art in promoting eco-consciousness and sustainability, aligning with corporate values of environmental responsibility.

Creativity goes hand in hand with thinking outside the box.

Thinking outside the box equals excellent problem solving skills.

We start by gathering a group of up to twenty participants in a suitable space for the three hour session. With people working in remote and hybrid settings it is useful to gather together to increase camaraderie.
By sharing experiences of overcoming challenges using art techniques and the power of visualization I demonstrate the possibilities available when we use our creative (right side) brain.
The science behind manifestation, visualization and creativity bring proven results for increasing motivation.

Basic instruction is provided on art materials and techniques, emphasizing the use of recycled and eco-friendly products.

Encourage participants to tap into their intuition and emotions, fostering a non-judgmental atmosphere of expression and creative thinking.

Guide participants through a series of art exercises designed to promote relaxation, focus, and self-awareness.

Facilitate discussions on the significance of individual artworks, promoting reflection and connection within the group.

Encourage participants to reflect on their experience and insights gained during the session.
Offer resources and suggestions for incorporating art-based wellness practices into daily routines.
Facilitate group discussions on how to apply what was learnt during the session to work and personal life situations
Provide ongoing support and follow-up opportunities for continued engagement and growth.

Participants of this non- traditional art session will come away with the skills to manage stress, relax and boost their mental health through the modality of art.

They will have learnt the mindfulness skills to manage anxiety, to respond rather than react which is key to smooth communication.

This results in a calmer, more efficient and happier workforce and therefore a

more productive work place environment.

This is a fun session that results in personal development, self empowerment and confidence.

Participants learn how to ground themselves, relax, and boost their mental health

through the modality of art.

03/02/2025 By felicia

In Classes

Galentines Art Journal Class

Galentines art journal class

The Galentines art journal class is happening!

What is Galentines? this is the Google definition:

Galentine’s Day is a global holiday that celebrates women’s friendship. Galentine’s Day is typically marked as February 13, but can be observed any day. Galentine’s Day events are typically all-female occasions of mutual “empowerment…a reminder for women to support and uplift one another.”

It’s basically a day of celebrating women, celebrating ourselves.

Whether you are a mum, grandma, wife, carer, retired, working in or outside your home, single, married, it doesn’t matter. We all need to take some time to find and celebrate ourselves.

So on Saturday 15th February I’m holding a day for you to do just that.

How would you like to spend the day making art in a very friendly and easy going space?

We will start the day with coffee and cake. We will make an art journal, complete a mixed media page that is full of layers, textures and meaning.

There will be brunch in the lovely Cafe du Parc and by the end of the day you will have an understanding of art journaling and several new friends.

The date is Saturday 15th February from 10.30 to 4pm.

The venue is The Plaza hotel, Killarney.

Cost = €120

What do you need to bring? Nothing except glasses if you wear them.

Everything you need is provided, I have disposable aprons and gloves so feel free to wear anything that makes you happy.

Come on your own or come with a friend, bring an open heart and mind and I can’t wait to teach you a new hobby.

I look forward to spending the day with you!

This is a link to a little impromptu ramble about the class.

18/01/2025 By felicia

In Felicia the Artist

Welcome to 2024!

This last year seems to have passed in a very busy blur.

It was summer, Halloween and then Christmas in the space of about six weeks!

I always love twixtmas – that lovely time warp between Christmas day and being back to work in the new year.

No one knows what day it is, there are many pyjama days and wet and windy walks.

Lots of time spent eating and drinking with family and friends.

And having no idea what day the bins go out….. ( I missed mine 🙁 )

What did I learn in 2023?

At the start of the summer I decided to give up my part time job and be a market seller.

I spent every Friday and Sunday from the start of June to the end of August at markets.

Then from the start of November till the weekend before Christmas, nothing but fairs.

This was me at the Art & Craft Fair in the Glucksman Gallery, Cork.

(Just in case we haven’t met!)

I loved it!

I met hundreds of people, had loads of chats and sent lots of Polly Dollies off to their new homes.

In all of those chats, two questions kept coming up.

The first was,

Is this all your own work?

Yes!! Its all me.

From creating the original to making the prints. From learning to use Canva so I can have branded packaging.

Ordering materials and keeping accounts (the worst job..)

Though sometimes my Mum and her friend Susan help with tying the ribbons onto the bookmarks.

The second question was:

Do you have a Polly Dolly with blonde hair and blue eyes?

“Of course” said I.

But do you know what? I actually don’t!

People buy my prints because they remind them of someone. They have a granddaughter with red hair or a friend who loves foxes.

So, of course people want a Polly with blonde hair and blue eyes, so guess what I’ve been doing this last week?

This is Eliza, she is a work in progress. she needs a backing and a sentiment, but at least she has a name!

My twixtmas has been wonderfully slow. I am rested and ready for whatever adventures 2024 brings.

I could tell you I plan to blog and send a newsletter out regularly, but that would just make us all laugh wouldn’t it?

If you would like the very (very) odd newsletter then you can sign up here

scroll down to the bottom of the page, I haven’t worked out how to move it to the top yet…….

Wishing you a very healthy, happy and peaceful 2024.

Come and join me on Instagram to see how Eliza turns out.

Have the loveliest day,

Felicia xx

01/01/2024 By felicia

In Classes

The Meraki Art Journal Class

A day of self care through art ~

The word ‘Meraki’ means ‘To do something with soul, creativity or love. To leave the essence of your soul in your work’.

It seems a very fitting title for this class.

We will start the day with a little explanation about what we are doing and what to expect.

Then we will spend the morning making our journals from scratch (don’t worry, it’s easy!) after which it will be time for a short lunch break.

Of course there will be tea and cake!

After lunch we get to the good bit – the first page of art journaling. I have created a page as a guide image for this, you can make something similar or something completely different. Don’t worry if you have no experience, I will help you through each step. Of course, it is also a great class if you are a regular ‘journaler’ (not sure that is a word!) I look forward to seeing what you create 🙂

Remember, It’s art – it simply can’t go wrong!

I will have all the materials for you. Simply bring yourself, your glasses (if you need them) and a willingness to get your hands messy!

This class is suitable for adults only.

I look forward to meeting you!

Felicia xx

07/08/2023 By felicia

In Classes/ Craft/ Painting

In Person Classes

In Person Classes are back!!

I am thrilled to announce that I will be teaching three separate classes in Cork.

The lovely Susan Herlihy is hosting a series of art classes at her studio in Midleton.

I have the privilege of starting off her “Crafty Hands Create” programme on Saturday June 17th.

At 10.30 – 1pm I will be teaching the “Whimsical Florals” class.

During this class we will get passed the idea of how things ‘should’ look and create florals from your imagination.

Don’t worry if you are new to painting, I will explain every step. You will learn how to choose your colour palette, and what brushes work best for this style.

At the end of the class you will have a framed painting ready to take home, and hopefully a spark of interest to do more!

Then from 2-4pm it is Beaded Jewellery time.

This class is great for people who prefer crafting to painting.

You will get to use pliers and crimping tools to create a necklace and earrings.

It can be a little fiddly so if you wear glasses for close work then please bring them!

Just so you know, the colours we use on the day may vary from the photo.

All the findings (hooks and clasps etc) are nickel free and hypoallergenic.

For this class there are only six places and for the painting class there are eight.

If you would like to book a spot please email Susan on craftyhands@outlook.ie

or call her on 087 902 8186.

The third class is very special. It takes place on 19th August from 10.30 to 4pm

I am calling it the Meraki art journal class.

“What does that mean?” I hear you ask…..

Well, Meraki means this:

This deserves it’s own post to explain it, so I will do just that!

21/05/2023 By felicia

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