Zoo and a iron will

My precious girls holding hands on the ride.

I didn't even know that we had this many lions at our zoo.

White tiger? Never knew that one either. I guess 40 degree weather is the best time to see those with fur coats.
Hello otter!
Our zoo pass is about to expire and I thought a girl's trip was in order. Unfortunately, last Thursday was freezing cold, drab, and found many of the zoo exhibits closed due to the temperature. Poor Sara never did sleep in the stroller. Mad toughed it through and I promised hot chocolate for us both upon our return home. I'm debating ( ad nauseum to my Knoxville friends- sorry) joining the Association of Children's Musuems instead of the zoo pass. So to my friends with experience in the multiple small child arena, what do you think? Any other ideas? I thought I might get more use out of the museum pass b/c weather wouldn't hold us back.

You've got to have a happy yard or two......

If you know me (or have been stuck reading this blog), you know that I love fabric. I believe that fabric is art; and should hang as such. I believe that the people who design fabric are artists deserving of the same consideration as those whose canvases are watercolor, oil, or pencil. Fabric is accessible art for us all. .... and I do love a happy little yard.....

You thought I was joking right? I really do hang fabric up on the walls. It's cheap, easy to change, and doesn't get destroyed in the process. I use push pins to attach fabric to artist canvas (the cheap stuff that goes on sale regularly) and never cut it; just in case I decide to learn how to sew properly.



This is a fat quarter bunch that changes seasonally. I love to buy them on Etsy just for the sheer joy of having them arrive in my mailbox. These are the perfect size to make into two sided pillowcases, appliques, or "wrapping paper" if you are so inclined. For as little as $12, you can't go wrong.

My headboard; fabric attached to a piece of plywood, with batting, hung on the wall with heavy duty art hooks. About a $60 project, and a great space saver.

A happy yard find. I have had this hung in bathrooms, hallways, and now over my desk. I had intended to make it into a bulletin board, but I just can't bring myself to cover up the gentle rhythm of the leaves.

So courage! my decorating compatriots, you've got have a happy yard or two.

Happy Birthday Madeline!

Three is the magic number....

Birthday poms!

I have seen these all over Etsy and thought that they were some of the most cute, magical, and joyous little orbs to be had. I had fawned all over one of the shops and was prepared to pay the $4 price tag for them. But, thanks to one of the blogs that I read, I found this great little tutorial. Such fun and so easy!





Two tips: The more precise your folds are, the better the flowers will look. And, try fluffing the night before your reveal. They do deflate!