Welcome to Painted Shadow Designs!

I’m Sarah DeNike, and I’m thrilled to share a little bit about myself and my journey to where I am today.

From Farming to Design

My story begins in a farming community in Northern California. It was there that I developed a deep appreciation for nature’s beauty and the value of hard work. After spending my formative years amidst the grape vines and open skies, I moved to the greater Seattle area. This bustling, vibrant region was my home for 25 years, where I experienced suburban life and grew both personally and professionally.

A New Chapter in Montana

In the summer of 2023, life took an exciting turn. My family and I decided to relocate to northwest Montana, settling into a beautiful home on 10 acres of land. It’s a return to my roots in a way, with space to breathe and the majestic mountains as our backdrop. My days are now shared with my husband Jim, our youngest son Will, and our two loyal Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs, Islay and Skye. Our oldest son, Jack, is currently pursuing his dreams in college.

A Passion for Blogging and Advocacy

I’m no stranger to the world of blogging. For 7 years, I dedicated myself to writing a parent- and patient-focused blog, advocating for children’s vision and gastrointestinal medical complications. This journey was not only fulfilling but also an incredible learning experience, helping me connect with others facing similar challenges.

Embracing Home Design and DIY

More recently, I’ve discovered a burgeoning passion for home design and styling. This newfound interest has become a significant part of my life, especially after moving to our Montana home. The concept of ‘rustic modern’ or ‘mountain modern’ has particularly captivated me, blending the clean, contemporary lines with the warm, inviting touches of nature.

Jim and I have always been the kind of people who prefer to “do it ourselves.” This DIY spirit has been a driving force in our home renovation and design projects. From simple decor tweaks to more extensive remodeling endeavors, we’ve embraced each challenge with enthusiasm and creativity.

The Journey Continues

Through Painted Shadow Designs, I hope to share this ongoing journey of home styling, DIY projects, and everyday adventures in Montana. It’s a space for inspiration, sharing ideas, and connecting with others who share a love for design and hands-on living.

Thank you for joining me on this adventure. I look forward to sharing my experiences, learning from you, and growing together in this vibrant community of design enthusiasts and DIY adventurers.

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