Team Orange

Of all the colors in the rainbow, I think orange seems to have developed a cult following somewhere along the line. Sure, most people have a favorite color, and those choices span the spectrum. Orange lovers, however, are a different breed entirely. Their interest, passion, and eye for all things orange truly is like none other. In my short life I've come across several of these orange fiends, as I'm sure you have. Maybe you are one of them. If so, welcome, and read on my orange-loving visitor, this place is safe for you.

While orange has never held yours truly in it's fierce grip, I'm becoming more and more appreciative of this happy hue. It's bright. It's beautiful. It's alive. I won't say I'm enamored, but I will say I'm intrigued.

I bought a hefty stack of orange and pink fat quarters this fall and had been eying them in my stash for quiet some time, not knowing exactly what to make. I decided on a crib quilt/wall hanging which will be up for sale at a little craft boutique that is fast approaching on my calendar next week. It was hard to get a straight on shot of it inside my humble abode, but I promise it is squared up and straight. Here it is in all it's simple, orange-y goodness:

Laundry = FUN

If only I had this ol' gal's enthusiasm when doing laundry...

Class Act

I've got to hand it to you Mrs. Obama, on Tuesday you didn't disappoint. I'm in agreement with those who think you'll bring the White House a new and original sense of style, unmatched by the majority of previous first ladies. You are really something special, and I'm so excited for the qualities, ideas, and passions you'll share with us in the coming years.

Love the lemongrass brocade coat and everything that was going on with your outfit during the day. Your ball gown grew on me too throughout the evening and I appreciate that you chose less-well-known designers. Beyond your wardrobe choices on Tuesday (which were just the icing on the cake), I'm a huge fan of your accomplishments, the character you display, your outlook on life, and so much more about you. I think you'll be a wonderful role model for women all over the world. Truly, you're a class act.

Carhartts for the (Stylish) Tradesman

I could probably devote an entire series of posts to the love and admiration TK and his best friend Andrew have for their Carhartts. Both of them are hard working tradesmen types who depend on the warmth and durability of their favorite pants. These clowns will find any excuse to stand outside in the cold so that they can experience how well their insulated "bibs" work at keeping them at an optimal temperature.

My guess is that most men who wear Carhartts (or other durable work-wear) are satisfied with the cut and fit of Carhartt's offerings - Traditional, Relaxed, and Loose Fit. Not my man. He's a little more of the Bootcut sort. Comfort, durability, and style should not be underestimated when remodeling kitchens and bathrooms.

Enter my sewing machine and some $6.99/yard duct fabric. A goal of mine this year is to tackle any and all sewing opportunities that come my way so that I can hone my skills and broaden my repertoire. Here are the new and improved Bootcut Fit Carhartts ready for anything contracting can throw at them.

Ready for the Maypole

Take a gander at this little cutie I made over the weekend. Isn't she a gem? A good friend of mine is having a little girl in the end of February, and every little Johnson girl needs a Swedish doll, doesn't she?

Apart from the concept of sewing the hair, I made her up all by myself! Needless to say, I do feel a bit attached to my little prototype. I think I'll make several with different traditional costume/dress and see who wants them. I'm imagining kimonos, dirndls, Dutch caps, Inuit hoods, and more.

I found the fabrics used in the dress and apron at JoAnn Fabrics for a pittance, and to my untrained eye they scream Sweden. I also attempted some simple "embroidery" on her vest to fancy her up a tad. She stands about a foot tall and is very content.

Little Victories...

Who's missed Agnes lately? I have! As always, she's ridiculous with a sprinkle of hilarity thrown in.

[click on the image for easier reading]

New Swedish Mug

Remember that song and dance I did about my mug-loving-Swedish husband? A new Scandinavian coffee mug (of which I completely and utterly approve) graces our cupboard, dala horse and all. Time for some glögg!

Feathery Friends

I saw this pattern the other day and thought it'd be fun to whip up a little bird. It was so easy and fast that I made three feathery friends. I'm not sure what I'll do with them yet, but it was hard to stop making them. It's a perfect use for your scraps and takes all but minutes to finish. I've seen them as Christmas tree decorations or as parts in a mobile. I think they're adorable. For the free pattern, click here.