gratitude

This weekend I received this beautiful leaf garland in the mail from Isabelle of Lou & Tom. Her generous gift is now hanging by the window in my studio, slowly twirling, reminding me of kindred creative spirits and friendship. Thank you Isabelle! I am also grateful for Mrs. French's wonderful post about my work this past week on bliss. So thankful my friend.

etsy love

a post about my recent etsy crushes is long overdue.

 

1. spider mum etching green print by helen gotlib; the imagery is magical.

2. black square cushion cover by Krepsen; love the texture of the fish skin.

3. idalia tags by field and sea; a gift in itself.

4. soul of the sea wall hanging by meliors; the beauty lies in the subtleties. 

sunday wander

A few snapshots from today's neighborhood walk. Starting with my friend, NiNi Baeckstrom's whimsical sculptures outside McGuffey Art center.

The sparkling winter jasmine, always eager to flower despite cold and grayness.

One of my favorite neighborhood houses – an arts and crafts style bungalow, restored to its full former glory.

His and hers vespa – I imagine... Have a happy week.

waiting

This branch, which was rescued from the freezing cold temperatures outside, seems to hesitate to unfurl. It, just like me, is eagerly awaiting spring... 

I want to send heartfelt thanks to some special blogger friends for their nice posts this week; jewels & jules and hanna's life is cool for highlighting the etsy tea towel article, dear Mrs. French at bliss for praising periwinklebloom and our little collaboration, and Isabelle of sweet Lou & Tom, for featuring my work. Tusen tack!

sweet collaboration

Tyler of periwinklebloom is one of my dearest blogging friends. Her shop and the toddler clothes she designs are just divine, and her blog is always both thoughtful and thought provoking. When Tyler suggested that we collaborate on one of her spring garments, I immediately said yes. She sent me a boxful of beautiful vintage French linen and I used the most delicate fern fronds I could find for the prints. The stack then went back to Tyler for construction and the result is this sweet halter top. I am thrilled. It's an honor to have my work presented in such stunning way. Make sure to check out the other pieces in periwinklebloom's spring line, such as the cool trunks and the mangle dress pictured below. Thank you Tyler, for including me in this process.

 

tea towels

Etsy celebrates tea towels this week. Elizabeth from flyingrhymes initiated and wrote this wonderful article for the etsy blog storque. My work is featured along with many inspired and beautiful towels from other etsy artists. Here are just a few of my favorites.

graphic leaves tea towel by dizzy design

Linen tea towel by jewelweeds

amazing kitchen utensils and mixer diagram towel set by girls can tell

tea towel screenprinted in red by stiksel

winter bloom

It is a busy week, but I wanted to share these happy signs of spring – the witch hazel's fringy bloom and the cheerful winter aconites. I will be back soon...

the homestead

My lovely husband and I snuck away for a 24-hour visit to the homestead this weekend. This historic, and breathtakingly beautiful resort is nestled between mountain ranges in western virginia, a few hours drive from where we live. It is almost decadently vast and luxurious, with delicious food, warm spring fed pools and baths, thick terry robes, and an abundance of friendliness and hospitality. It was a treat for us to just be together, hike in the snow, sip wine, and relax without any distractions, besides the stunning setting.

winter wonder

We woke up to more snow this morning. Wet and heavy, engulfing the neighborhood. Everything seems so pristine after a snowfall. This month I am starting two new partnerships. I am collaborating with Karen Young and her newly launched show:room, where she will promote independent artists and designers. Karen's own line Hammocks & High Tea is part of this small but talented group of eco conscious creative businesses. I have also placed my first ever sponsor ad on bliss. I can't imagine a better venue than Mrs. French's lovely blog, and I am proud to be a bliss supporter.