Lovely World

donkey, and a blog birthday

It is not a deer (thank goodness), and not quite a horse. Here is my version of the little donkey designed by Myra Masuda for the book "Softies Only a Mother Could Love." The kangaroos with little joey puppets I have been making are designed by Myra as well. The donkey's ears are my favorite part. Just right.

*********************************

Hello! I do believe that today marks my blog's first birthday. It is hard to believe that it was just a year ago that I sat at my computer and started what has become a place of both creativity and comfort for myself. I have met such great people through this blog. I truly appreciate every one of you who takes time from your day to visit here. Thank you all so much.

XOXO MARIBETH

new trim

When I was in NYC a few weeks ago, I stumbled upon an amazing shop (Daytona Braids and Trimmings at 251 West 39th Street) specializing exclusively in sewing trims. Ribbons, ric-rac, fringes, sequins, lace, velvet, rhinestones, jacquards, and so much more. Considering that I live in a rural area and feel lucky to find any quality fabrics or notions locally, entering a shop in New York's garment district is almost too much to handle. I kept thinking that I should buy more, because when would I next get the chance? I restrained myself, buying the ribbons above and some very sweet velvet ribbon in blues and grays. To tell you the truth, I didn't even venture into the back half of the store. I keep wondering what other treasures I might have found.

I made up a few zipper pouches with some of the Japanese prints I recently got from Super Buzzy. They are 9 inches wide. Some of my new trim snuck in there. Can you see it?

Happy weekend to you all.

XO MARIBETH

more deer

I now have a herd of deer taking over my work room. Some herringbone and green wool ones to join the brown. I am known for being persistent, but maybe this is getting out of hand. Time to move on to another species.

more origami

Here is another vintage origami book to go with the other one I found a while back. This one was published in Tokyo by the Asahi Origami Club back in 1959. I love the kids with the rainbow shirts.

quotable sunday

Look, I want to love this world

as though it's the last chance I'm ever going to get

to be alive

and I know it.

from the poem "October" by Mary Oliver

and a little horse, too

The kids were home from school today, so we stuck close to the house and settled into quiet activities. I was able to make this wool horse. It is about the same size as the deer I made a few days ago, about six inches tall. I used Lambs' Pride bulky wool for the mane and tail. I may try a finer yarn next time, although that pert little tail is sort of sweet.

I really enjoy sewing these animals, but they are truly time consuming. The kangaroo (which I made a while back) has quite a bit of hand sewing involved, adding to the time spent. I guess I consider these heirloom-quality gifts.

Have a lovely weekend, everyone. XO Maribeth