Archive for the 'book review' Category

Library Loot

Published on February 24, 2008 in book review, fashion design, Iz and Library Loot. 1 Comment

We visit our local library almost every Saturday. Usually we stop in after ballet and run into friends, so it turns into a social event as well. The kids room has so many wonderful books, books on tape, magazines and toys, we can stay for many hours. Iz has reached the point where she’ll sit and read books (after taking all the furniture out of the doll house and lining up all the toy animals in pairs). I loved going to the library when I was little. We would go there for story hour, special events, and just to fill our bags with books. Pratt has a pretty incredible library. An amazing collection. When I was in college, I loved spending time there.

I want Iz to appreciate the library too. I think she already does. It’s special to go to the library. She already knows the stacks and heads to the right places each week.

This is what we brought home last week.

diflikecoco.jpg

I loved this book. I’ve always admired Coco Chanel, so this book was really for me. I was able to share with Iz some fashion magic.

punkfarm.jpg

This was certainly the favorite this week. It’s excellent. Iz loved the animals, the story. We read it about 10 times every day. There’s a great web site for the book too : www.PunkFarm.com and check out Jarrett’s blog! Iz wants to go back to the library and get this book! Might have to become a permanent member of our own library! I love that she remembers her fave books.

stellaluna.jpg

And of course Stellaluna. I love this story. I think this is the second time I’ve checked it out of the library. Wasn’t big on Iz’s list, but maybe next time.

Learning to Use Your Sewing Machine and Domestic Inspiration

Published on October 17, 2007 in about me, book review, classes, craft, Creating, family, friends, inspiration, kindness, LuckyStitches, my house, projects, sewing and totes and bags. 2 Comments

Last night was part 2 of the 4 part Sewing Machine 101 class where we are stitching up our own messenger bags. The fabric choices are creative, the applique designs/concepts sparkle and I can’t wait to show you more after next Tuesday. Here’s a sneak peak:
LuckyStitches - Messenger Bags
LuckyStitches - Messenger Bags
LuckyStitches - Messenger Bags
LuckyStitches - Messenger Bags

I’m sure by now, you’re up to date on the whole brouhaha about Jane Brocket’s book The Gentle Art of Domesticity. You can hear the interview that sparked it on BBC Women’s Hour.

I don’t really need to add my 2¢ (but…). I think you know, after all, I’ve sewn all my life making my own clothes and many, many gifts, been the breadwinner for many years, taught myself to knit, CHOSE to leave my office job to raise my daughter, and most recently launched a business, yes, a sewing business.

Through blogs, circles, groups all of these have social aspect too. For me it’s all about inspiration. I hope to inspire others and be inspired. How boring if I sat in my chair in front of the television by myself and did nothing but veg? I don’t want a mush brain. I choose to sew and knit and bake and craft it up. Keep my brain thinking about patterns and colors and textures, all of which include color theory, math and vocabulary and pattern making. I want to learn new things. I rarely do the same project twice, I’d rather pick something I haven’t done before, something challenging, change the pattern, scale, use an unexpected color or medium. It’s even better if I can experience it with like minded individuals who are just as passionate (or more) about it as I am. And all this while I raise my daughter and make a home for my family (I didn’t say it would pass the white glove test).

It’s disappointing to me to hear people complain about what other people do with the choices they make about the creative outlets they choose. While I wouldn’t want to run a marathon, 26 miles isn’t for me, I’ll be their cheerleader on Lafayette Ave (NYC Marathon route). I don’t want to write a book, but hey if that’s what you want to do, go for it, I can’t wait to read it.

Maybe those complainers need to be more critical with their own creative outlet choices than with others, and should be thrilled that they are able to choose what’s best for them.