Merry & Mod at home

Sewing for Spikey

Allow me to introduce Spikey.  He's a friendly baby gorilla who sleeps next to my oldest son, often presides over baths and mealtimes, and occasionally causes mischief.  We have learned not to take him to preschool, lest he be forgotten in a cubby overnight. 

I was an avid collector of stuffed animals as a child.  Each creature had it's own name and backstory.  One in particular has traveled to Europe to keep me company and now sits on my (made!) bed every day.  So I appreciate the attachment and I encourage this friendship of sorts. 

Last week, while trying to amuse ourselves during the youngest's naptime, we sequestered ourselves in the studio.  Earlier that morning he had found the scrap of fabric left over from his chain mail and decided he wanted to make a suit of armor for Spikey.  I looked at his dad's knight book with him and agreed to sew something. 

I almost got out the sewing machine for this and am relieved I reconsidered.  I spent an hour hand sewing the chainmail, breast plate and helmet - complete with a chin strap - while trying to keep a four year old from pawing through every perfectly organized drawer, compartment and small box in my studio.  (This special place is, I admit, a cabinet of curiosities and I am trying to find a balance for us there somewhere between creative play and pure stress.) 

I share this here so you will notice how cleverly the breast plate snaps in back.  How carefully I painted a crest on the front (though it doesn't show very clearly).  How chivalrous Spikey appears in his new get up.  Because the four-year-old was about as impressed with the finished product as he was with muesli for breakfast this morning.  Oh well.  Win some, lose some, I suppose. 
 
 

light rain in the evening

time capsule

The battery in our last film camera died seven years ago - while were enjoying a most memorable eco-vacation in Mexico.  Since then it has knocked around in drawers, boxes and moving vans.  Eventually I replaced the battery, finished the roll of film, and developed the images.  (This took several months in order for me to get my act together.  What's the rush after all these years?)  I had no idea what surprises I would find. 

 

And so, here I am in the autumn of 2003: cold, tired, and very young; returning from our SCUBA certification in the Channel Islands, I vowed never to dive in cold water again.  A school of dolphins escorted us back to the marina and I remember being so thrilled at the sight. 

 

And again, here I am in late winter, 2010.  With two boys in the back yard enjoying an end-of-the-weekend fire outdoors.  We toasted homemade marshmallows.  My youngest had just discovered his pockets.  It was rather chilly. 

I am, essentially, the same woman.  Now I have more experiences to guide me.  And though I never would have supposed on that boat so long ago, miraculously, I have more love to give.  Like peace, patience, and children, love grows when it's nurtured.  
 

The Magic Bag

 

We spent Mother's Day at Lake Creek Lodge with my parents.  It was a wonderfully relaxing day, which started with mimosas and continued with brunch at Black Butte Ranch.  I forgot my favorite black boots at home, so my outfit was nothing to crow about, but the occasion did provide an opportunity to carry my favorite (new) Hobo clutch. 

Now, this chic double frame bag is deceptively spacious.  Knowing that I wouldn't need phone, keys or snacks was a liberating thought.  Instead I stashed finger monsters, a slim little book, lollipops, an Altoids tin of crayons, race cars, and two lengths of bakers twine and a tiny pair of scissors (stowed in a Hardanger embroidered pouch made for me by a distant cousin when I was married nearly ten years ago).  Add in a small tin of lip balm, a diaper, and a few wipes and I felt very well prepared.  

 

As clever as I found myself (it's the little things, people!) most of it was unnecessary.  My boys are not into languorous brunches and lingering over champagne.  Fortunately, my husband did double duty and spent most of the lunch outside with them while I sipped and supped. 

Thanks, baby!
 
 
 

Indie Craft Loft

Don't miss the Central Oregon shopping event of the season this Saturday, May 8.  I'll be joining a long list of local crafters, makers and designers at the Indie Craft Loft at Gossamer, the Knitting Place.  Look for the Merry & Mod display featuring the bubble collection, lip balm lockets, butterfly designs and a host of other new pieces.   (A sneak peek of vendors and their assorted wares can be found on the event's Facebook page.)   

 

Saturday, May 8 from 11am to 6pm

Indie Craft Loft at Gossamer, the Knitting Place

550 SW Industrial Way, Suite 28

 

 

Happy Belated Arbor Day

 
Weekends lately are full of long days working in the yard.  With each bare root rosebush, rhododendron, or bunch of rhubarb I place in the dirt, I find myself talking to each plant, hoping they will feel at home.  It's a little surprising to find myself enjoying this satisfying work so well.  Our children explore the yard - endlessly entertained by earthworms, lizards, piles of dirt.  And we work and work, dreaming of the bounty and relaxation to come.