Good words

I saw this sign above a display of mugs for sale at my local Starbucks. Although I knew it was a carefully calculated bit of corporate spin, I couldn't help thinking how aptly the words describe how serious spinners, quilters, knitters, weavers, woodworkers, potters, and other craftspeople approach their craft.

New year = New projects

Here's a "before" picture of my next furniture-sized project. I found this cabinet at a cool shop in Tucson, AZ that specializes in large Mexican colonial pieces, antique and otherwise. As we wandered between 10-foot high old wooden doors, huge terracotta urns, and giant heavy wooden sideboards, I remarked that, although I loved everything I saw, I wouldn't be tempted since nothing would fit in my tiny house. No sooner than I uttered the words, we turned a corner and found this well-loved little cabinet. It is solid, very heavy (many thanks to Mim and Sharon who helped struggle it up my steps), and the perfect piece to hold up my TV. First I need to remove the faux-finish turquoise paint. Sharon and Mim were both insistent that I should keep the turquoise, but to me it is way too "southwest" cute. Plus, why faux-finish a piece that is already honestly old? Seems like a crime to me.




While I am considering the options, the cabinet is forming an impromptu kitchen island. Just another in-progress project, sitting on the in-progress kitchen floor, next to the in-progress kitchen table, surrounded by the cabinets needing sanding and wallpaper needing stripping. I sort of have a theme going.

Sabino Creek

Sabino Creek
Originally uploaded by Purple Fuzzy Mittens

Spent a glorious golden afternoon in Sabino Canyon Recreation Area near Tucson, AZ. Rode the shuttle, walked a bit, stopped at picnic tables to play games of Power Flinch, soaked in the 70 degree weather, and enjoyed time with family. Back to the frozen north soon.