Laura Christine “Mimi” Pikaart 

The Story Behind the Duck

My grandmother, affectionately known as “Mimi,” is the inspiration behind the duck in my logo.

When I was thinking about what symbol could honor her, I kept coming back to ducks. Mimi was an avid collector of duck figurines, artwork, and memorabilia, and ducks filled her home. I’m lucky to have some of her collection decorating the walls of mine.

Ducks are often associated with joy, curiosity, adaptability, resilience, loyalty, and adventure—all qualities Mimi embodied. She traveled the world, piloted her own airplane, biked, golfed, sailed, swam, ran, fished, and played cards. She was deeply committed to her community, volunteering through churches, schools, and the Lion’s Club. She approached life with curiosity, generosity, and a wonderful sense of adventure.

She also had a remarkable love story with her husband, Edward Hendrick Pikaart, whom she married in 1950. After he passed away in 2001, she never remarried, carrying that love with her for the rest of her life.

Mimi loved animals and always had a dog by her side. Her final companion, April, was adopted by my sister after Mimi passed—a small continuation of the care she gave so freely.

To her grandchildren, she was simply Mimi, and being a grandmother was one of her greatest joys. Some of my favorite memories are the simple ones: talking about our dogs, comparing the latest dark chocolate ice cream we had tried, and watching her enthusiastically like every single one of my Instagram posts. Her curiosity about the world and the people she loved never faded.

Mimi passed away peacefully at home, just as she always wanted, on December 28, 2024. I miss her dearly and think of her often. Whenever I felt stuck or unsure of what to do next, I would ask her for advice. She would always tell me:

“Keep going. You’re on the right track. Your life is full of art, dogs, and community. You’re doing a great job.”

I repeat those words to myself whenever I need them.

The duck in my logo is a tribute to the life she lived. It reminds me to move through the world with curiosity, resilience, joy, and love, or at least most days. Sometimes resilience comes with a healthy dose of stubbornness.

I love you, Mimi. Thank you for giving me so much love, laughter, courage, dark chocolate, and community.

Love you to the moon and back.