Don't we all feel like just a cat in a dog world sometimes?
I am so happy you are here! The creation of this site and everything included in it came to life because of a special cat named Gus—an explorer, a traveler, a leash-walker in a world designed for dogs. Gus is still very much a cat, with all his quirks and moods, but watching him confidently step into spaces where cats “don’t belong” made me realize something deeper: in many ways, we’re all cats in a dog world. We hesitate to take that first step, to go where we’re told we don’t fit, simply because it’s not what’s expected. What started as a tribute to Gus evolved into something more personal—a reflection of how I’ve often felt out of place, trying to function in a world that didn’t quite make room for who I am. But just like Gus, I’ve learned to embrace that difference, to walk my own path unapologetically.
This page is dedicated to that spirit—to taking risks, stepping outside the lines, and living boldly, even when it feels unfamiliar. Like a cat on a leash, it’s about choosing your own adventure, not shrinking to fit a mold, and honoring the beautiful rebellion of simply being yourself.
- Sarah
Mr. Gus Gustafson
Meeting THE Mr. Gus Gustafson is like shaking paws with a legend—a cat whose name alone carries the weight of stories and sass. Named after the cantankerous yet lovable Mr. John Gustafson (Jack Lemmon) from Grumpy Old Men, Gus lives up to the moniker with flair. He can be a little putz, sure, and on some days, he operates with the logic of a brick, but that’s part of his undeniable charm. Beneath the antics, the stubbornness, and the occasional blank stare, Gus is driven by an unshakable instinct to live fully—seeking out the best patches of sun, the highest vantage points, and the next big adventure. He doesn’t apologize for who he is, and somehow, that makes him the perfect guide for the rest of us still figuring out how to do the same.
Photography
My journey with photography began decades ago, behind the lens of an old Canon Rebel, shooting on film and waiting days to see the results of each frame. I eventually moved into the digital era with a digital Canon Rebel, embracing the immediacy and flexibility it offered. But it wasn't until I started using the iPhone—now an iPhone 14 Pro—that I truly began carrying a camera everywhere I went, ready to capture the beauty in everyday moments with just a tap on the screen. The evolution of technology has made it possible to document life effortlessly, and while I still appreciate the craft of traditional photography, for me there’s something freeing about the spontaneity and accessibility of mobile photography.
It’s with that spirit that I’m finally taking the leap—sharing my photos and making them available to purchase.
Art
Creating art is often a hilarious tightrope walk between making an absolute mess and accidentally stumbling into a masterpiece. One minute you’re just playing with colors or snapping a photo without thinking, and the next, you’re staring at something that actually feels like it matters. The beauty is that because it comes from your imagination, your heart, your soul—it’s already valid. It’s whatever it needs to be. Whether it speaks to just you or resonates with someone else, it’s still art. And sometimes, the best pieces come from the moments when you stop trying to get it “right” and just let it be weird, wild, and wonderfully yours.
And that is the perfect time to share your creations, at least that is what I am telling myself! (Smile)
Classes
There comes a point in life where you realize it’s time to start sharing what you’ve learned—the little things you’ve figured out along the way, especially when it comes to creativity, art, and imagination. It’s not about having all the answers; it’s about showing others that they can tap into their own creativity, no matter their age or experience. Whether you’re 2 or 102+, everyone deserves the chance to slow down, let go of perfection, and create something that might look like a mess at first but could turn into a masterpiece. Teaching through art isn’t about rules—it’s about opening a door and saying, “Come play. Let’s see what happens.”
Blog
I’ve always had a fear of writing—of not knowing exactly how to handle structure, punctuation, or all the little technical things that come with it. That fear kept me quiet for a long time, even though I had so much I wanted to say, share, and offer. But now, with the tools and technology available—especially AI—I finally have the support to express what’s been living inside me for years. I can find the words, shape my thoughts, and share my voice in ways that once felt out of reach. It’s exciting and empowering to use these resources not just to communicate, but to connect, create, and hopefully encourage thoughts and smiles.