this weekend : :

Was birthday crown madness! I finished twelve, working here and there on Saturday and Sunday, and have four more to go. I really surprised myself and my husband. If you haven't noticed I tend to jump around with my project ideas, but I really did enjoy making these crowns so much. It all makes me feel a bit excited and honored to make something for a child to wear on their most special day of the year.

Here are a few of my favorites from the batch -- A Woodland Creature themed crown : :

And, this bright and fun request -- With a needle felted ladybug on one side and a buzzing bumblebee on the other : :

I can't wait to receive the Birthday pictures of the boys and girls who will be wearing them. Fun, fun! I am not quite ready to hang my crown making hat up just yet. So hopefully the orders will continue to come my way.

Many thanks to those of you who ordered this last week -- I know many of you stopped by here!

Happy Monday friends! ~ Maureen

A Drawing Becomes a Pillow : :

I've mentioned here often how much I love to take my children's drawings and turn them into playthings for them and how much inspiration they give me for the handmade items I make for sale. I have learned that these sorts of gifts really do become treasured items for my children and those receiving them. Well, this weekend we had a very special guest with us who just had a big birthday on Thursday. So, a little celebrating and gifting was in order. Leah has been mentioned here before as a regular fixture around our table and I shared a little about our story here, as well.

She also happens to be one of the most artistically gifted people I know, as well as incredibility smart! For the last few years I have given her something handmade for her birthday, and since I know how much she loves reading -- Warrior books in particular, we all decided a pillow of her favorite character, drawn by her of course, would be perfect!

Once finished, Haila could not wait to give it to her...

Leah was thrilled with the pillow, especially with the green -- it's her favorite color after all, notice those nails! And, everyone else was....well, just completely thrilled with Leah!

Yes, it certainly was a great weekend! Happy Birthday Leah -- we love you!