Thankful for....

Time

For the first time ever, my family and I are going out to dinner for Thankgiving, Yippee! Not exactly traditional but somehow just what we needed. No stress, no running around, no figuring out which vegetable to bring, (I always have to bring the vegetable dish, why?) no, OHHH I forgot XYZ. Just some extra time to sit my little lulus's and talk, be silly, make a little crafty project, light a fire. Just wonderful time. It feels nice to try something NEW too!

Happy Thanksgiving!

DIY Inspired

So this week my son is home with a fever and a cold, and selfishly I am enjoying having some time with him to myself, lots of movies and hangin on the sofa, he on the other hand

would much rather be at school with his friends.

Well, back to DIY inspiration of today- or rather last week, when I was looking for a simple high waisted (most flattering for me) dark denim skirt. I found this great one pictured below, here, only the price tag was not what I was willing to pay for such a simple garment.

Years ago when I began sewing I made my own patterns and dresses, I haven't done this in so long, but wanting that denim skirt, I thought why not try my hand at it and see what happens? Starting with measurements, and basic template, I cut out some stretch denim that was in my stash, left an opening for a few side buttons, stitched, serged, hemed and......

I realize that this image isn't all that telling about the skirt, it's the best I could do as it was taken by my feverish 8 year old, who wasn't in the mood for retakes and multiple shots... really, could I have at least tucked in my shirt so you could see the top?

(he just read this and thinks its really funny!)

So a few things I would tweek, the hem could be a half inch wider, and I'm

not sure about the length, I wanted it to be casual, with tights or leggings so I went a little shorter which changed the line a bit, but overall I was happy I tried and am pleased with the results, it feels good to get back into making wearable things again, a nice break from home decor, can't wait to do some more. So what about you, what's your latest DIY project?

Below are a few handmade skirts I think are great, links are after the images. Cheers, and thanks for stopping by.

1. Daydream long linen skirt, New Extrave
2. Classic Tulle Skirt, OUMA
3. Flat Skirt, (organic cotton), Gaiaconceptions
4. Plaid Skirt, Sohomode

Iphone Camera Fun

So much fun! My beautiful boy celebrated a birthday this weekend! A little family fun, first at his dads and then at Nanas...next weekend T-Bowl and 10 kids- more fun! In the mix of bringing, cake, presents, balloons, etc. I left my camera at home, lucky for me used my Iphone, with the Sepia Camera App (lookin for the link!), So what do you think, do you have an app that you want to share?

Etsy Creature Comforts

A few handmade favorites I am coveting today. Links below correspond with images clockwise.

1. Camel Cape, Dear Golden Vintage
2. Salted Caramel, RL Sweets
3. Morning Print, Yellena
4. Gem Baketlite Cocktail Ring, Petite Oiseau
5. Golden Flowers Necklace, Eninaj
6. Classic Black Latte Dress, LA Mixx
7. Gigi Slouch Hat, Tortilla Girl
8. X Pleat Tote, Yorktown Road
9. Felted Light, Helene Magnussen

A TED pick- me up (hope)

This video clip from TED picked me up this weekend. Please watch the whole clip, the ending is fantastic. If you get the chance to head to TED.com there is a fascinating lecture by Stefana Broadbent you might find interesting too.

Today the fantastic Anna of~ In Honor Of Design has graciously agreed to share with us. Be sure to check out her beautiful work by following the links below.

"What's Inspiring You Today?"

I have to say that this week I have really been thankful for people I know or have met who are fighting for an honorable cause. For instance, my soon to be brother-in-law, Phil Simpson, puts his heart and soul into his work as a soldier for the United States Army over in Afghanistan. He told me how every day he tries to learn more about their culture to earn their trust so that he in turn can give them hope. Incredible.

Also, I was connected recently with a woman who has started a fundraiser for her 3 year old nephew, Gavin who is suffering from a rare disease called Tay-Sachs. She is gathering artists from around the country to donate handmade Christmas cards to raise money for research for his family. I was blown away by her initiative and motivation. You can read more about Hope for Gavin here if you would like to be a part of it! (http://www.johwey.com/hope-for-gavin/)

It is people like this who have inspired me to give today, and give more of myself than before. To put others needs before my own, and to embrace the opportunities to serve others. Thanks for the opportunity to share! ~Anna

In Honor Of Angela ~ Eclectic Florette Sash

/Clip

Hope For Gavin

To connect with anna and acquire one of her charming floral designs, click ::

Etsy Shop/ Twitter / Blog / Facebook

Fun!

I love this Holiday- mainly because it's just for kids, the Lulu's had so much fun **