Every once in a while, a design comes from a memory that makes you smile every time you think about it. That’s exactly where the idea for my “Seas the Day” ManaTee came from.
A few years ago, my husband and I took a trip to Mexico, and while we were there, we decided to go on an excursion to swim with manatees. At the time, we just thought it would be a fun thing to do while we were on vacation. We didn't realize it would end up being one of those experiences that we would still talk about years later.
I have to admit, I already thought manatees were adorable, but seeing them up close was completely different. They were SO sweet and friendly. Honestly, they just act like giant sea dogs.
They would swim right up to us wanting attention, and they actually seemed to enjoy being petted. We got to rub their bellies, give and receive little kisses, and spend time swimming alongside them. They were so gentle and curious that it was hard not to fall in love with them. ♥
And, of course, we didn't just swim with them—we got to feed them lettuce, too! 🥬
We also got our photos taken with them, which gave us something to look back on and remember our experience.
It was one of those bright, sunny Mexico days where everything just felt happy and carefree. We were outside in the sunshine, wearing our sunglasses, swimming with manatees and just enjoying being there together.
That’s really what inspired the “Seas the Day” part of the design.
We decided to seize the day and say yes to an experience we had never done before. We could have spent the day relaxing on the beach, but instead, we chose adventure and it ended up becoming one of my favorite memories from that trip.
When I was creating this tee, I wanted to capture that feeling. Not just the manatees, but the feeling of being on vacation, trying something new, laughing, soaking up the sunshine, and making memories.
So now, whenever I see this little manatee design, I think back to that day in Mexico and those sweet, giant “sea dogs” swimming around us. 🐋💕
That’s one of the things I love most about creating designs for my boutique. Sometimes they start with an idea, but sometimes they start with a memory.
So, take the trip. Try the excursion. Feed the manatees.