And then...

Of course this is a little late, but I just wanted to do a little follow up from project run + play.

While it was a little sad to be voted off, being part of the contest was worth every minute I spent sewing to stay in it.  After I started a very taxing full time job last year the things I loved doing were kind of put on the back burner, and sewing definitely dropped off of my to-do list. I probably turned my machine on four times over the summer. Project run + play made me work through a list of designs and ideas I have been wanting to find time to put together for months. It gave me a spark- it was invigorating to be pushed creatively, and I feel like no other outlet would have motivated me the same way. And sewing along with the other talented ladies in the contest was an honor, and I really enjoyed that opportunity. And to have such amazing friends and family who voted for me, and to meet such sweet people and to read all of the lovely comments and messages- that was really special to me, and I appreciate it all so, so much.

Last night I had to make a last minute Halloween costume. When I put it together I felt completely confident- it was a reawakened feeling that had been missing for some time. I am glad it's back.

February

I seem to have missed two weeks- I might need to catch up on some of the highlights of February.

Ori turned four and mastered the iphone camera
Valentines meal made by Danny
Cookies enjoyed by Ori and friends

Love is in the Air

After more procrastination than I would like to admit to, I finally got my yudu up and running just in time to make some Valentine's day inspired prints.
I feel like any prior dawdling has been equalized since I knocked out some gifts for teachers and friends for the upcoming holiday in such non-last minute fashion. So unlike me, I know.

I am kind of into the fun yet polished take on Valentine's day kitsch, and have a couple in my shop if you are too.

Season's Greetings

picking out a tree, spying on the kids, a lit up living room, and last minute gift shopping.
There are some wonderful, creative people who I have to met through blogs, emails, and comment boards, and just wanted to wish my extended network of friends a very sweet holiday season!

Fake Snow

The winter decorations are making their way up around our place.
After learning this very handy technique, Phia and I started a little production line of snow flakes and paper chains made out of old school handouts and scraps. I love the way the snowflakes turn out- and once you get the hang of it they are pretty easy to put together.
I couldn't resist snipping up doilies to add into the mix, and when I started stringing everything up it got a little reminiscent of my favorite scene in the movie Elf.

Belated Thankfulness

Feeling very thankful to have spent a wonderful Thanksgiving with the family...
and even more thankful for the relaxing day that followed. Staying at home in pajamas to catch moments like these- no store could offer a better deal.

Fickle Fall

One day you're enjoying colorful leaves and fall festivals and fresh baked pumpkin muffins...

..and the next you find yourself stuck indoors, watching the snow fall while reassuring the kids that Halloween is still on, and that trick or treating is not cancelled.

Party Time

As a school age child, I always loved a good Valentine's day party. It brightened that late winter void, and really, who doesn't enjoy love and candies?

Phia was invited to her first class party, so I let her paint her own cards for her Valentines.
We took a doily-stencil approach, and once they were cut, signed, and taped onto fruit bars, I thought they looked pretty cheery.