Although I am still very emotional and am feeling awkward about putting forth these lighthearted posts in the wake of the tragedy and sorrows of last Friday, I also very much want to highlight the goodness in the every day. I want to reflect on ways to celebrate the small things, to immerse myself in creative ventures, to invest time and love into my family, friends and community. I'm doing my best to stay true to that. With that in mind, I remembered how a couple of weeks ago, I had some ... Read more
Archives for December 2012
Mer-girl
This week, I am hunkering down to get the last of my Christmas gifts done and want to make headway on some art projects. I'm getting close. Above is one of my all-time favorite illustrations I did in watercolor many moons ago. I love that the mer-girl is riding a seahorse, exploring through the depths of the sea. One day I want to wander through the world on a trusty steed too, seeking out adventures. Alright, back to hunkering down... ... Read more
Shortbread Cookies with Dark Chocolate Icing
Ina Garten is a goddess. I don't think there is a single recipe of hers that I've tried that hasn't come out amazing. OK, these shortbread cookies have only five ingredients (butter, flour, vanilla, salt and sugar), but still, it's all in the proportions and these shortbread cookies are perfection. Every bite is probably irreparably clogging my arteries, but it's so worth it. The recipe is here, and I give you my word that these will be the best shortbread cookies you've ever tasted. The one ... Read more
Happy Friday + Color-blocking
It's the end of the week again, which means Christmas Eve is 10 days away...I am a teensy weensy bit overwhelmed. Anyway, Happy Friday! Have you been enjoying the color-block trend as much as I have? I recently acquired this very cool fabric, and it's got Lycra (though mostly cotton) that gives it a sheen and stretch and almost raincoat-like feel to it. I immediately wanted to make a jacket. This pattern from this book is actually a peter-pan collared coat, but I didn't want to break up ... Read more
Holiday Crafts Roundup – Ornaments
With jingle bells in the air, I've got my crafting on these days, and it's like Santa's workshop around here. K made these beaded snowflake ornaments last year (using this) and they add great sparkle to our tree - aren't they pretty? In a couple of weeks winter break will start, which means loads and loads of extra time with K. I've been gathering a jillion craft and diy ideas and thought I would feature a few of my favorites every week - it'll be an easy reference for me for those moments ... Read more