Happy Thanksgiving!

I would like to wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving tomorrow! Thanksgiving is growing into one of our favorite holidays because it seems increasingly like it's the last one to be free of rampant commercialism. We really enjoy being at home together sharing our blessings of health, family, and a day off work! Since it's just the two of us, we're ordering our dinner - but I'm going to make this Chocolate Pumpkin Tart because I like my pumpkin pie with a twist. Have a wonderful day! I know I will.


{And I'm taking the weekend off, so I'll be back to posting on Monday.}

Desktop Wallpaper

Since I work on a computer all day, I'm always looking for fun pictures to set as my desktop background. Often I use a photo that I've taken or one of Joe's paintings. Sometimes I like a more graphic approach. Jessica Jones' blog is a great resource. Through her site I found Push Me Pull You Design -they often have wonderful seasonal images (like the turkeys below). Metremade is a good source for fun patterns. (Jessica even offers some of her own designs - if you like orange.) What's on your desktop?

Happy Everyday to You

Yesterday was our Primary program, and I had the privilege of kicking things off. As part of my introduction to the year's theme (I Am a Child of God), I read a poem by Dr. Seuss. I just want to say that I am glad that I'm not a clam!

Today you are you!
That is true-er than true!
There is no one alive
That is you-er than you!
Shout aloud "I am glad
to be what I am!"
Thank Goodness I'm not
a clam or a ham or
a dusty old jar of
gooseberry jam!
I am what I am!
What a great thing to be!
If I say so myself,
Happy Everyday to me!

Friday Featured Etsy Seller: All In Stitches

I'm not normally a scarf person, but when I woke up today it was 15 degrees. I decided I should look into it. The All In Stitches Etsy shop has some super scarf offerings - including this "scarflette." What a cute way to keep your neck warm! (And without the hassle of where to tuck the long ends of your scarf so that they don't get caught in the zipper of your coat.)

Thursday Tunes: Ryan Adams - part 2

I know I just posted about Ryan Adams two weeks ago, but I had to share more. This summer, Tony and I made our first-ever trip to New York City. It was a blast, and (needless to say) I had Ryan Adams' New York, New York stuck in my head the whole time. Today while I was looking for something else, I came across the video for this song. I've never seen it before. The opening indicates that it was shot on September 7, 2001. A large part of the video is from this angle under the Brooklyn Bridge looking back at the city. It's pretty incredible to think of what would happen just four days later. The song is great, and this video is great, and New York is great!


{I couldn't embed the video, but if you click on the capture above you can go watch it!}

Lotta Jansdotter

Scandinavian designer Lotta Jansdotter is such an inspiration to me. Her work is simple and clean and fun. I love this apron and the cute place cards below. Last year around Christmastime I got her book, Simple Sewing. I have to admit that I haven't made anything from it yet, but I have big plans!

Way to go, Joe!

My brother-in-law, Joe, is featured in the December issue of Watercolor Artist magazine. I got a copy in the mail from my mom yesterday, and it's very well done. His work is on the cover, and then there's a 9-page article with lots of pictures. Misty Trees, below, looks especially nice in print. Visit Joe's web site here for more inspiration.

I did it! But maybe I shouldn't have...

On Saturday I finally went to Macy's to check out their Martha stuff. I want one of everything from the kitchen section, please! For now, I got these cute prep bowls.

Friday Featured Etsy Seller: Black Sheep Beads

Today I am giving away a trade secret - Black Sheep Beads! Pam's Etsy shop is filled with all sorts of treasures. There are lovely vintage glass beads like these white ones and unique vintage plastic beads and findings and charms and flowers... I especially love all of the interesting bead caps like these antique brass petals. Black Sheep Beads is definitely one of my favorite suppliers for my shop.

Thursday Tunes: King Corn Soundtrack

Last year one of the makers of the documentary King Corn was in Columbia for a screening. I know that it's been shown on PBS, and it is very informative and well done. Corn is a huge part of America, and there are a lot of misconceptions out there. Watch it if you get a chance and pay attention to the music. I liked it so much that I bought a copy of the soundtrack at the screening. It's by the Wowz - they're kind of folk-rock and really fun.