puppy love

... a dog can never tell you what she knows from the

smell of the world, but you know, watching her, that you know

almost nothing...

— Mary Oliver

from the poem "her grave"

I love our two dogs.  Freja, the labrador, steals food, doesn't come when called, and can't walk properly on a leash. Kajsa, the hound mix, is terrified of everything, especially fireworks, thunder, and hot air balloons. With all their faults, there is something honest and unconditional about dogs, their devotion, endearment, and companionship. I can't imagine life without them. Charlottesville is covered in ice and snow today. School is closed and we are all, including the pups, setting up camp in front of the wood stove. Lovely...

all mine

I recently discovered book artist Jean Potter's work on etsy's front page. I fell in love with her work and especially this little book, which is actually two books bound into one, called dos-a-dos. One side is a screen printed weekly planner, the other is a blank journal. The book is beautifully made, with unique papers, decorative details, and impeccable craftsmanship. And it is only 3.5" x 5", small enough to come along wherever I go... You can find similar books and many other beautiful pieces in Jean's etsy shop TheAyBeeCees.

A special thank you to Julia for featuring my self portrait on red otter yesterday, and to Carolyn for writing so beautifully about my sachets on serendipity & spark today. I am thrilled and honored!

new day

The bright fresh day and the beginning of a new era  leaves me brimming with pride, hope, and delight. My inaugural favorites: Aretha Franklin, the voice and the hat. Elizabeth Alexander, the words. Malia and Sasha, the smiles. Barack Obama, the speach. The crowd.

replenished

Zip purses, cozy pillows, colorful sachets, and a pretty tote. Most of today was spent photographing, editing, and posting new work to the etsy store. It is always satisfying to have fresh inventory to share, especially since my regular website is in a limbo due to a major reconstruction. I am also busy preparing for a couple of upcoming events and some exciting business and creative changes here at inleaf. I promise to divulge details soon...

winter walks

We frequently take walks with the dogs through our neighborhood. Last weekend we went to the trail along the creek by the high school. It is secluded and quiet despite being in the midst of the city. Everything is bare and stark this time of year, yet alluring. Today we visited the cemetery near our house. It is small, just over an acre, and dates back to the pre-civil-war-era. This resting place is peaceful and hauntingly beautiful. I love the simplicity and artfulness of the headstones and monuments marking the graves.

art journey with misty mawn

My friend Misty Mawn is spearheading 31 days of art journaling on her wonderful blog. She will feature a new journal entry daily through-out the month of January. Sometimes her posts are accompanied by her magical photography, some days she will include a tutorial or creative idea, and then there is the music, and the poetry... I encourage you to follow her journey — it will awaken your senses and leave you with something new to admire every day.

Several other artists are joining Misty by posting their own daily art journals. You can find links to all of them here, and if  you like you can join the fun...

anniversary

This blog was born one year ago. Little did I know what a wonderful journey it would take me on. I am grateful for the new friendships and the mindfulness it has brought to my life. Thank you for your visits and comments. I truly appreciate every one of them!  

It is inevitable to consider new beginnings when the year is this fresh. I believe more in wishes than resolutions, and one of my wishes for 2009 is to have the time, energy, and confidence to pursue more art projects. My mind is brimming with ideas that I need to organize and watch take form. We will see what happens. I wish all of you a happy new year, filled with peace, warmth, and creativity!