Monday, June 29, 2009

Away We Go


Zach told me that this movie reminds him of us-now. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind has always reminded both of us of our relationship for many reasons:
Zach draws- similar to Joel- Zach can be very introverted, like Joel, he also can say things in a sarcastic tone and they end up sounding mean, just like Joel. I have had my hair a million colors of the rainbow, just like Clementine. I worked at Barnes & Noble, when we met, just like Clem. Finally, there was a time when perhaps I was the weird girl people dated to see what it was like to date someone who wasn't average- like all the other girls in high school. Not to mention we both just love this movie on so many levels. The actors- the screenplay- which I read often- the soundtrack(amazing) which is always in complete heavy circulation.

So tomorrow I am going to see this with one of my oldest friends- possible two of my girls. Zach got to see an advance screening a few weeks back. He came home with a FOCUS reusable tote- which has dissappeared ( Ahem I have no idea why you are looking at me!) a t-shirt, which he grabbed- the soundtrack which is awesome and the screenplay.

The last movie I saw in a theater was Hellboy 2. I was about 6 1/2 months pregnant. The volume was turned ultra loud and I didn't enjoy it- wondering if the noise was bothering Hazel. I look forward to seeing a non- Hellboy movie where there shouldn't be any loud explosions, I will miss the little fluttering in my tummy though!

Sunday, June 28, 2009

BACK By Popular Demand..


About 2 years ago in June, I joined Wardrobe Refashion. I'll admit I didn't do as well as I hoped. But now- becoming a mother as well as 1/2 of a family trying to save for a house- I think this shine s new light on being creative, thrifty and using my noggin. So with out further ado...

The Rules

1.No buying new! (handmade is excepted; So this allows for Etsy purchases etc!!) All clothing must be Recycled, Renovated, Preloved or Thrifted, or Handmade only for the term. Employment related and special needs clothing (ie sports, school), shoes and undies are excepted from the rules, although you are encouraged to have a go at making these.

2.In extreme circumstances, maybe a special event, or the worlds greatest and most amazing never to be repeated sale that you simply can not pass up, you may use the Get out of Refashionista Jail Free card. You are able to use this card once during the 2 month part of your contract; ie 1 for 2 months, 2 for 4 months etc. Of course you need to fess up on the blog and display the button!

3.You must post on the blog at least once a week to let the community know what you've been up to. This will not only give you brag points, but inspire and encorouge others! Of course you need to display the button on your blog and have copied the pledge in at least one post, and provide a link to your pledge under the button.

4.You need to be honest and admit when you've fallen off the Refashionista Wagon! Go directly to Refashionista Jail, do not pass GO and do not collect $200! Apply for parole once there.

So with that said- I've been looking at my wardrobe, Zach's and Hazel's with shiny new inventor's glasses. Here is to an inspiring day. I hope my inspiration and drive for sewing can push me up the hill of boxes and bags waiting to be moved!
xo

Saturday, June 27, 2009

Random Weekend Ramblings

Since this post is random- I searched through out archived photos for some more randomness.



I've talked about our impending move for a while now and it has finally arrived! Today Zach, Hazel and I, along with my parents headed to the old place for some much needed moving. Tub cleaning-clothing packing-baby wrangling was just how I spent a good part of the day. In between we watched the several different kitties enjoy the cat chow we poured into a bowl in the grass.

Thursday I go for my colonoscapy. Maybe this will shed some light on my 1 year (this July 2nd- the day I'll actually have my test)battle with tummy troubles. Zach and I briefly spoke about gratitude this morning- here are some of what we shared:
Gratitude for
my health daughter and beautiful,understanding wife (Z)

my family and the sunshine- me

With that I say enjoy the rest of your weekend- I am so very beat from he day- maybe this means it was a full day of doing and living.

Thursday, June 25, 2009

simple


Zach has been taking the white wonder mac to work with him. So I haven't really been plugged in- which isn't such a bad thing. I've reworked the blog a bit and I'm happy with the little transformation.

We are in the midst of summer here- and that means it is time again to move. Z is at the apartment right now loading the car and this weekend will be filled with deciding what to take- what to sell- what to giveaway and what to toss (the toss pile is always the smallest). But with all that I have a serious need- more than an urge.. to simplify. I have always been a slight pack-rat- a daughter of collectors, my parents enjoy their yard sales- thrift shops and so on. It was in my cards. But with a little one here and on the verge of crawling- I want less. I want more space for her and for my thoughts- more space on the wall than items on the wall. So this will mean that first, I'll need to break it to my husband that I want to detoxify our life of many of the items we've thrifted together and then I will need to actually follow my own lead. I'll let you know how it goes.

All I can say is I'm so happy tomorrow is Friday- because this week has been especially emotionally tiring. Enjoy your weekend- get outside and have fun!

Friday, June 19, 2009

Ode To a Man and His Magic



No, I'm not referring to Walt Disney. When I met Zach, 6 years in February- I had no idea he was really crafty- nor did I know how funny he was. I did think he was quite handsome and wanted to really never leave his side. We talked about our hopes & dreams as most young-new couples do and quickly put into motion our ideas about starting a handmade business. Named from a show we were both currently obsessed with at the time- Hobocamp has evolved into a family business.

When I look back at the short time we've both been parents- then I look at the detail Zach has put into our business and his art- it is no wonder he is such a loving papa to Hazel. Here are some of Zach's designs and handiwork. He sews,paints, screenprints, draws and he did knit (briefly- it was to make a hat that looked like armor, of course) but he helps to keep me motivated and inspired while I drive the Hobo train.

This is the original sweater card inspiration- basically a cardigan's CD Mix... he drew the cover art for me. um hello I think this is brilliant and wish Nina Persson would let him print these for their next tour!








His patience with sewing these button bag treasures- surpasses that of a saint. I have no patience for it. He is my rock and my best friend. I wouldn't want to be raising our child with anyone else (well Paul Giamatti doesn't count) But really folks through the thick of it all he comforts me,rocks our daughter to sleep and feeds the cats when I forget. Enjoy your first official Father's Day Zach- We love you!

Thursday, June 18, 2009

Cheer Up With Smika



Lately on the east coast we've been dealing with weeks of rain. The kind of weather- you want to wear super bright colors to feel better about getting out of bed. Maybe that is why I am sooo smitten with Smika.

She uses thoughtful color schemes, that I am totally loving!


Her handmade wool beads are the perfect item to brighten a dull day. The photography just pops off the page with cheerfulness.

"It makes me happy when a tuft of wool turns into a lovely toy in a child's hands, a gorgeous brooch on a woman's coat....when yarns become to gloves which give you warmth in chilly autumn morning"- Smika
Please check out her gorgeous shop.

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Weekend Sewing


I've been saying I wanted to sew some sort of jumper for Hazel,well since before she arrived in December. I did make her a small frock- but wanted to make a little sundress. Renegade was very inspiring for children's clothing and just crafts in general. I've had the dress in my head and used Amy Butler's Little Stitches to get an idea for construction, but ended up not using the pattern, well because I don't do well with patterns. Here is the finished project:



It took me about an hour to construct and sew. I took Hazey's measurements and winged it. Right now I am loving the unfinished hem, but I will probably sew & shorten it a bit. It is very much a handmade dress and very free-form- I eyeballed most of it. Sorry I didn't have the hub take any closeups. I'd love to make a more funky, vibrant one. I chose these soft fabrics to start with, just yardage I had around for a long time. Next I'll try to make my own pattern from a recycled paper bag and go from there with different fabrics. She could wear this to a spring wedding! Too bad we don't have any to attend!
Happy week- happy sewing!
xo