Since 1983 I've volunteered and worked for many nonprofit agencies. It's been the most challenging and also the most fulfilling work I've done.

As a graphic designer I've donated my services to various organizations and decided this year to work with the Rancho Santa Fe Rotary Club on their Taste of Rancho Santa Fe event. Over the past eight months I've helped rebrand the look and feel of this year’s event through posters, marketing collateral, web art, ecommerce, program book, signs and much more. 

I was impressed by the dedication of the volunteers and that the money raised will benefit 15 different nonprofit organizations: Rancho Santa Fe Rotary Foundation, ConnectMed International, Hands United for Children, J.C. Cooley Foundation, Miracle Babies, Rancho Santa Fe Community Center, San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum, STEP Support the Enlisted Project, The Vision of Children Foundation, Voices For Children, and Women’s Empowerment International.

Step back and think about what you can do to help others and your community. Please know that no matter how big or small, volunteering WILL make a difference!

In the course of my business I occasionally have to say NO to a job.  It’s such a small word and also very powerful. 

Steve Jobs was a man who thought differently, “The hallmark of new Apple was saying no . . .  Above all, saying no became a crucial way of keeping everyone, including himself, focused on what really mattered.”

So next time you have to use the "NO" word, remind yourself that it's ok and that it's helping you stay the course with your business and personal life. 

I recently went to Ketchikan, Alaska to visit family, and like any good tourist, I went shopping. 

I collect coffee cups and became truly inspired by the art work of Sue Coccia at a local art shop I wondered into with my mom. I fell in love with the exquisite detailing that Sue puts into her art and the intricacy of the wooden puzzles that were available for purchase. While the puzzles were out of my price range, I did walk away with a new cup that was adorned with a whale design.

I soon became intrigued by the idea of creating an art piece using her design style. I haven't started yet, but it's on my list of things to do. 

I think it (whatever "it" will turn out to be) will make a wonderful gift.

Check out Sue's art at http://fishcreekalaska.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=174

Like any creative artist, sometimes the next BIG idea is allusive. Whether you're a writer, painter, sculptor or architect, "writer’s block" can strike at any time. 

As a graphic designer, it’s up to me to listen to my clients and help realize their vision. Many times pulling together a design concept is easy and the client loves what I’ve presented. But there are other times when coming up with the perfect design idea takes some extra time and research.

The masters of years gone by, such as Picasso, van Gogh, da Vinci and Dali had their muse. What I have is a stack of books and magazines, and links to web sites that are full of beautiful designs. 

Often when I get stuck, I walk away from my computer and do something else. Or I wait until the next day to revisit what I’ve done. There have been times when I’ve tossed out many hours of work and started over, and the final outcome is exquisite! On my web site are a list of my go-to resources that help inspire me. Check it out at http://pmgraphicsanddesign.com/resources.html