This year of less has reminded me of childhood hardships and how we didn't know we were poor. Funny kids want what they are told to want. My wise parents restricted tv for the period before Christmas on several years. We certainly survived and I was very pleased with my gifts. We played family games and went on lighted house tours and went to parties and events. Living across from a community center helped to occupy us as well. One of my favorite activites was sewing. I frequently made gifts for family and friends. The value of those items was small to me because it was mostly my time involved, now I understand the value of both the artistry and the time invested in a handmade item. Many books and articles give algebraic formulas for getting $10 an hour out of your work. Doesn't work. You do the work because you love it and because you love it the item has value.That's why prices vary, but we do have costs involved and  small markup above that can keep a crafty woman happy.

I take custom orders, however if you want a handmade you must account for time. Crafters likely have a long list,so expect to pay a premium or give a gift certificate to be redeemed after the holiday. I deeply value handmade gifts, perhaps you do too. Remember to support local crafters and expect one of a kind items! 

As Fall is begining, we are all transitioning into this new season. For me it is an exciting time. I don't tolerate hot temperatures well and it has indeed been HOT! The temps, now in the high 80's-low 90's seem lovely in comparison. With the relief from the heat comes an increase of energy! I am finally productive! I am a restless person in my crafting aspect. I want to be working on several things at once, finishing them quickly and well. This is not possible for me in the heat. Yes,I have A/C, but when we are talking about 100's on the news it is 10 degrees higher where I am. The machine can't keep up and it can only bring it to 84-85 in the house with A/C on full tilt. I move slowly and wear a wet rag around my neck all day. All to say that I am ready to work on bigger items and a faster pace! Hoo HOO!! So in the next few days I will be sorting yarn and fabric for projects, and posting my finished items to the store. I will announce the new items as they are posted. I know my quality is excellent, I hope to sell well so I can get more yarn and fabric! Quite a few of my items are refashioned from recycled clothes, Very Green, but they still require some new componants as well-interfacing,thread,needles all cost money, but the stuff that is not going in the trash is significant.The finished Items are really nice. I know some of you will value them. I might add that they are each one of a kind. I will ,of course, label all Refashioned and New as such. Now I'm going to get something done!