07/12/2026
✨ Where did our Joyful Journey lead us yesterday? Right here at home! 🖤👟
As Tristin gets older, his birthday wishes have definitely changed. This year he had one very specific request: Black Air Force 1s...and he wanted to customize them himself.
Now, he's not exactly an artist...and we're definitely not in the business of wasting money on sneakers. 😂 So I started searching for someone who could help bring his vision to life, and that's when I found Shoedio.
I reached out to Emily, who was incredibly kind and helped me find a workshop that fit both our schedule and our budget. (They no longer have a physical location, but they host pop up shops in various locations) Nana ended up gifting Tristin the experience for his birthday. The only thing that caught us off guard was having to purchase a spectator ticket...but we weren't about to drop him off, so spectator seat it was! 😄
The workshop was held at Mother's Comfort & Cocktails (which we definitely need to go back and try because the food looked amazing—we had already eaten before we arrived).
From the moment we walked in, Emily, Mike, and their two kiddos (one snuggled in a baby sling on Emily's chest) made us feel welcome. They wished Tristin a happy birthday and were genuinely some of the sweetest people we've met.
Before everyone started designing, Mike shared his story—his background, his struggles, and how creating custom shoes quite literally helped change and save his life. He also spoke about Emily's unwavering love, belief in him, and support of his dream. Honestly, in that moment, every dollar we spent on the experience felt completely worth it.
Throughout the workshop, Mike and Emily walked around helping each person with their design, laughing with everyone, encouraging creativity, and making each participant feel seen. It wasn't just a sneaker workshop—it was an experience built around community, purpose, and passion.
By the end of the afternoon, Tristin walked away with a one-of-a-kind pair of custom shoes that he absolutely LOVES and can't wait to wear.
Today reminded me that sometimes the best adventures don't require a plane ticket or a passport. Sometimes they're found right in your own community, supporting people who are boldly chasing their dreams.
So if you ever get the chance, check out a Shoedio workshop. Create something that's uniquely yours, be encouraged by Mike and Emily's story, and support a family that's pouring their hearts into making a difference—one pair of shoes at a time.
❤️ Thank you, Shoedio, for helping make Tristin's final birthday gift this year so special.
