Updated

While I was posting the last set of pictures I realized it has been a while since I did an overall update of this blog. I had two days off this week (and they were consecutive!) so I thought it might be nice to tune some things up.

You can check out the creative places I frequent by people that I think are cool in the links. Check them all out, they are all that good.

And this is a peek at my newest piece up on etsy- I am pretty much in love with this chevron print.

Dignity of Work

Learning how to best balance the home front while working has been a very interesting experience. While some things are just reaffirmations, I have started to pick out what makes life easier.

 Baking off eight pizzas to bulk up on dinner time staples.

Working on finishing projects.

Enjoying time with the family.

Snipping Strings

That's probably the best way to sum up my sewing time lately- finishing up projects and trying to resupply my little shop.
I had some requests for children back packs, and after digging through my stash of fun prints I came out with some of my never been touched Heather Ross beauties. A lot of love goes into sewing these little back packs, as I can imagine little children like Phia and Ori wearing them on their first day of school.
And speaking of projects with a lot of love put into them, I was asked to make a very meaningful quilt that will be a very beautiful gift. I felt truly honored to be asked to make it, and was happy to snip the final string and mail it out.

Spring Stitches

I have a thing for Mexican tapestry design. I've always been an admirer, especially of Oaxaca embroidery. It looks both meticulously planned out, yet free and lively.
I dug around and found my embroidery hoop and needles after seeing a very inspiring dress at a local estate sale. This is the first of a few rounds of hand stitching, and is currently up in my shop.
And I can't help but include these fantastic looks:
Vintage purple embroidered dress via Calivintage
Embroidered tunic via Kansas Couture
and
Annie Novak at Eagle St. Garden via The Selby

Bicycles & Backpacking

Last summer I wanted to fill a need by making some cute backpacks that I could use when riding my bike. I made mine compact and added a longer strap so it can be worn like a market tote for easy use while I am out.
I have gotten so much use from mine I thought I might put a few in my little shop. Some are simply back packs, while others have the extra strap, and the first batch all feature beautiful floral prints from Naomi Ito.
I have been itching to get back on my bike. There is always a magical, familiar feeling I get when I ride. It has been a bit of a challenge trying to tow both of the kids with the old trailer I found off of craigslist, as it seems to always have flat tires. Now that Phia is going to be five, I was hoping that our biking options would be a little wider, but I am still keeping my Madsen dream alive. Especially after reading this, watching this, and being inspired by this gelato bike.

Sleeping In Sale

Today we will be sleeping in and snacking on leftovers. To celebrate this wonderful decision, I set up a nice little sale for anyone interested in my handmade goods.

From now until Sunday night you can use the coupon code "LOVELILI" for 15% off bags or quilts in my etsy shop.