::Rolling Along::

My rolled swirls are coming along. After much struggling (and still some indecision), I've settled on a soft winter white.

But I can't have just white. I always need a little spot of color. So take note of the little felted leaves. They might make these little swirls just right. Now to put it all together--in my mind and with my hook! 

It is Fall break here and I'm enjoying the time with my family. My dear mother-in-law came to visit for a couple of days. We talked and laughed and ate too much food. We also made a trip to the thrift store. Yup. Bought stuff.

I "rescued" this needlepoint for $2. I always feel so bad when I see handmade items like this there--since I understand how much time goes into making them. But honestly, I bought it for the frame. I didn't love the picture as much as I do now. It is growing on me. I like that I can barely see the faint gray clouds in the blue sky. And the blossoms on the trees make me think of Maryland in the spring where I lived for a short time as a child. 

I'm thinking about painting or whitewashing the frame. Maybe something creamy white or soft pink. But nothing too dark or intense. I want the picture to be the focal point.

I also came across these old barnwood frames for $1 each. And my happiest find was this vintage laundry cart--probably from the local laundromat. It is currently on my front porch. Maybe it will become my spot for seasonal decorating. Any ideas, folks?

My boys have enjoyed the time off from school--particularly because the weather is HEAVENLY!!

Luke worked hard in the yard to rake some leaves...

But as is required with children, you must jump in them. (He is actually hidden in this pile!)

I love the autumn colors, the sound of the crunching leaves, the smell of the fallen leaves, the feel of the cooling air. I also thoroughly enjoy dressing in layers!

I think I'll go sit on my front porch and sew for a bit until it gets too cold.

{QUESTION}--What is your favorite season and why?

::Happy Fall-ing::

Isn't Fall the most amazing time of year? Well, here in my little mountainous neck of the woods world, it is. I love the smell, the crunchy leaves, the warm vibrant colors, the layered clothing, the school supplies, the crocheting. (Oh, actually I enjoy that all year long!) But there is something wonderful about making things with yarn in the cooler weather. Maybe it is because I can snuggle up to work on an afghan without baking in the summer heat. Or maybe it is because I dream of creating cozy, yarny accessories--and that makes me happy.

I have been working on several little projects lately. One is this big grey cowl. I got the pattern here. Super easy. I love the stitch texture and the bamboo/wool I used--nice drape and super soft. I added the surface slip stitching for a bit of color. Who me?? Extra color? Crazy! When I am finished it will be a little rainbowy stripey cowl. I'll post my finished project very soon! 

But I have been a bit more distracted (is it possible?)than usual because...

This is an apron for my new job!

Yes. I accepted a very part time job as an Academic Coach at the local charter school that my boys attend. It is perfect for me and I feel very blessed to have it. It is only a couple of mornings a week, in the same building as my sons, working with teachers and students in the classroom. No grading papers. No long days. Doing something that I love. And it is only while my little Luke is in morning Kindergarten. Perfect, I tell ya. Just perfect.

I made up this apron pattern as I went but haven't written it down. Maybe I will. It is meant to hold all of my little do-dads as I bounce from classroom to classroom helping teachers be the best they can be. Since I don't have a "home-base" I needed a way to carry my things around and an apron seemed just the ticket.

Oh, and I almost forgot, I never took photos of the tissue box covers I upcycled (to cover the monograms from Pottery Barn). Here they are...

This was another of my Olivia Flowers--in a mix of wool and cotton yarns. 

I can't remember where I got this flower pattern. Anyone recognize the flower? I love how the center sits separately from the outer petals.

Hope your day is terrific. Mine was good in so many ways, but two... 1) I had to go to the doctor and it was a bit scary and a bit expensive! 2) I need many more hours to accomplish the things I need to get done before I sleep.

Better get crack-a-lackin'! 

(I have been thinking about asking a question of my readers for each post. I am always curious to know more about you! Please share!) 

{QUESTION}--Where is your favorite place to take pictures?