Bits and Pieces

Filling my home with happy things.

I needed something bright to cheer me up last week, so I popped into the new floral shop, I Fiore, across the street from White Elephant and owner Beverly was nice enough to give me some forsythia free of charge because it was on it's way out. Forsythia is one of my favourite blooms, and I was really touched by her gesture. She has such a lovely shop with thoughtful, modern and beautiful arrangements, and it's an undeniably pleasant addition to the neighbourhood.

The branches are definitely on their way out, but I am partial to the beauty in decay and the blossoms are still a vibrant yellow. It brightens up the gloomiest of days.

Mike and I recently did some design and programming work for Victoire's blog. They wanted a fresh and clean new look and asked us to lend a hand, which we were more than happy to do. I won't take much credit, as Mike did most of the work designing all of the elements - I just put them in their proper place when he was done. We were all pretty happy with how it turned out and as a token of Katie and Regine's appreciation they sent both Mike and I a pair of Manitobah Mukluk moccasins. Oh man, they are just the best thing ever. I have always wanted a really luxurious pair of house slippers, but could never justify the cost. My mind has been changed. If you're the same way, I'm telling you that they are totally worth it. TOTALLY. I never want to take them off.

It's also really great that they are an Aboriginally owned Canadian company, and all of their pieces are handcrafted. If you're interested in a pair for yourself Victoire can hook you up!

Kate made this lavender filled satchel for me, and embroidered an "H" on it. She grew the lavender herself and naturally dyed the material with logwood. It now hangs on the door to my studio, which I spend a lot of time in these days, trying to be creative and to make things with my hands. It's a really special reminder of a friend who I find ultra inspiring.

Edit: And hey! She just opened Needlework! Check it out.

I couldn't resist picking up this cute string of pearls succulent to add to my ever growing houseplants collection. I think I may be able to say that I finally have a green thumb. Or at least it's not as black as it once was. I really love this little guy.

A couple of weeks ago I made the trip to visit Iroqrafts based on Tara's suggestion. I was not disappointed. I walked around with so many things in my hands for so long - porcupine quills, a horse tail, a fox face, the wing of a duck. It was a treasure trove for a collector of natural curiosities such as myself. I ended up only coming home with one thing, and that was splurging on this angora goat mohair pelt. Philip Sparks Fall 2011 collection really got me obsessed all throughout last autumn and winter with big sheepskin accessories. I originally bought it with the intent of making myself a collar for my coat, but with winter coming to an end, I didn't have the heart to cut into it. Maybe next year, but until then it will sit in our living room floor and honestly, it really ties the room together.

I've slowly but surely been working away at my Daisychain Alphabet Sampler. It's nice to work on a piece that requires a little more discipline and straightforward outline than my own creations. I'm happy with how it's turning out, and appreciative for all the practice it's giving me in regards to certain stitches. French knots all over the place!

I really love White Elephant. But I also really love my home. It's my favourite place to be, and I'm lucky to be able to spend so much time there. I hope all of your homes are happy too.