Summer Reads

Hello there! Our summer continues to be filled with caring for my two most precious creations - big brother and baby sister. However, I've got a few small projects waiting for me on the dining room table along with my sewing machine. I'm ready to get back to it!

Today we braved the heat (which doesn't happen often unless necessary...hello fall? we're ready!) and made our way out to pick up some library books. I often come across blog posts that share favorite reads of preschoolers. I check the story lines out online, add them to our hold request list if they look appealing and hope we'll find exciting new stories. We've tried LOTS, and sadly most don't hold big brother's (or my) attention. However, today we hit the jackpot so I thought I'd share. 

Our local nature museum has the sweetest, cutest pair of owls. We've visited the mommy and baby owl more times than I can count, so I had high hopes this book would be a hit and it is!

This one was spotted first on our holds stack and met with "Mommie look - bunnies!" Adorable animals are an instant attraction at our house!

Both books have well told, sweet stories. The illustrations are beautiful, and really hold my 3 year old's attention. We read them as soon as we got home, and Daddy was requested to read them again at bedtime. Ahhh, sweet summer reading satisfaction with worthiness of future purchases!

Mommie's Got a Brand New Bag!

As previously mentioned, I'm taking the library's DIY sewing catalog by storm. An adorable project caught my eye and finally gave me some sewing inspiration. I give you my take on the Mama's Bag from Amanda Blake Soule's Handmade Home:


This bag was SO easy and fun to make. It's mostly cutting, ironing, and pinning with some finishing seams thrown in. My lining is a gray & white houndstooth flat bedsheet I scored at Goodwill and the outer fabric is dark purple denim I found (on major sale of course!) at Hancock Fabrique. I even added an interior accessories pocket for my trusty phone, lists and coupons!


It's the perfect bag - stylish, expandable and washable. And I'm excited to make a few more...I'm thinking about altering the body by both size and shape...and adding personalized embroidery! This item is definitely going on my gift list for ladies and will be given to myself again from time-to-time. Who doesn't need a reason to buy more fun fabric?!

Random Thoughts of Crafty-ness

Maybe it's Spring Fever or just a lull, but I'm finding it hard to pick my next project. My inspiration list is only growing, yet that one special spark hasn't fired me up. So to possibly ignite some creative energies, here's a random list of things and ideas on my mind.


1. My lovely husband recently proclaimed he would clean up the home office in order to provide me a dedicated sewing space. I am aflutter with dreamy color schemes, organizational efforts and the coming reality of having my machines ready at all times. A wall it may be, but I'm in heaven I tell ya.

2. My hands may not be busy, but my mind is craving crafty food-for-thought via books and blogs. Check out some inspirational work sites here and here - oh my! My library hold list is hearty and I was excited to check-out and read thru Handmade Home this evening. Project Mama's Bag jumped immediately on my to-do list!

3. I continually strive to hone my domestic goddess skills. Housework is just that - work. One day I hope to have a better plan or schedule suited for the tasks at hand. But for now I will enjoy the daily highs and hope to improve the lows tomorrow. Cooking can be such a joy...now if only my kitchen would keep itself clean!

4. And lastly, here's to projects past and future. Creating is not just an outlet for me, but an expression of love. I am so thankful to be sentimental, southern and crafty!