Remembering Japan

Today we remember the victims of the Japan Earthquake and Tsunami as the second anniversary passes.  You all know how much I love this Country and I thought I would share some of my photos from our trip  just prior to the crisis. Our thoughts and prayers are for the many victims and their families on this day.

-Amy

Fresh Air

Ahhh! Today is so warm even though it's Feb.! I was going to work in the studio today but....

So instead I'm opening all the windows in the house and heading out to my favorite park to get my run and some fresh air in my lungs! These are the kind of days that rejuvenate so we can work harder :) I think it's alright to take today off. Also the weather is looking fab for our New York trip tomorrow, I've got to finish some laundry and pack my bag tonight. Here is a pic of the modern Times Square hotel we're staying at!

Surprise!

Sort of a funny story to share today :)

 You know how I posted about my pining for a specific  NORO knitting book the other day? Well, I had been looking at it on Amazon right before I blogged and for a moment  I thought I might have accidentally clicked "buy it now" but I didn't think anything of it. So exactly 3 days later I receive a package from Amazon shaped very much like a book. I thought, "hmmm... I must have accidentally bought that book..." Turns out my lovely Mother had seen my post and shipped me the book as a surprise gift! THANKS MOM!!  I've already started in on a project :) So many beautiful patterns to make, I highly recommend for the intermediate to advanced knitter. 

Today I'm also applying for alllll of my shows up until about July. I'm really excited to be traveling farther this year so I will hopefully have some interesting stories from the new places we stay! (Kind of like combining vacation and work!) Speaking of traveling, Kirk and I will be staying in Times Square this Thursday - Saturday! He has never been to NY so this is going to be a busy, crazy, adventurous weekend! 

Happy Monday みなさん! 

Weekend in Photos

 I'm working late to get ready for MD Home and Garden this weekend, but I promised to share  my photos from Philadelphia so here are a few plus some others:

Labels to make my supplies easier to find.

Photos going out with recent show applications.

My day in Philly began at 9am and I found myself wandering down some lovely neighborhoods. I was ultimately searching for an awesome store that I had heard of online called Omoi.

After 3 hours of getting lost and walking about 5 miles, I found it! Omoi means interesting in Japanese and it was just that. Filled with the cutest Japanese stationary, jewelry, and so much more! I had to restrain from buying everything.

A piece of the mosaic maze wall. I especially loved the quote embedded on the blocks.

My spoils from the day: Gorgeous yarns from Rosie's Yarn Cellar, deco tape, Kaolin clay soap, kawaii pig pencil sharpener, and Japanese bunny paper punch from Omoi.

The first photo doesn't do this Manos del Uruguay yarn justice. It's hand dyed, gorgeous merino wool/silk blend. Plus it's made by an organization that helps to bring economic and social opportunities to rural women. Beautiful.

Yum! It's really Fall! Made some pumpkin bread and bought that tasty pumpkin butter from TJ's!

In addition to this, I have so many exciting new patterns for winter  that are gracing my newest pieces. Plus a I had an explosion of new designs. This weekend is going to be so much fun! Make sure to come out to the MD Home and Garden Show to say hello and browse for some early Holiday goodies, or contact me for an invite to the Annual Fall Home Show on November 6-7!

xxoo -Amy

Root and Sky

Hi everyone! I just wanted to let you all know about a friend of mine who makes the most amazing body care products. Her line is called Liquid Ember and it is based on the ancient Indian concept of ayurveda or the science of life, to help create a healthy balance in your mind-body connection. I've had the pleasure of testing out her products at a recent show and I was so impressed! She has put so much effort, research and love into her product line and it really shows. She has just opened up her online store and if you get the chance please check it out! Her website is: www.rootandsky.com.

Also just as a small update, I've applied for all of my Fall/Winter shows and I have managed to squeeze in a date for the annual Home Show this year with one exciting change: We'll be holding it at the new house this year! So mark your calendars for the weekend of November 6-7.  (Please e-mail me if you would rather receive an e-mail invite to save the trees!!)

 I'll be in Philly tomorrow checking out some great artsy shops (and of course China Town) and I'll  have  some photo updates when I get back!