Mastering the Art of Free Time

I had high hopes for the summer. I thought I would have so much free time and finish everything on my list. I thought I would use a lot of my time to make things and get a head start on Christmas gift making (I’m on a tight budget and “gifts” is a killer!). I know it’s still early, but so far I feel like I’ve had little free time. UNTIL…

I’ve actually had a little bit over the last week and a half! While last week was partly spent preparing for a weekend trip and the gifts it included (2 Father’s Day and 2 birthdays), this week is being spent relaxing! I am still working three days a week, but that leaves two week days for errand running, exercising, cooking, crafting, puzzle-smithing, or just vegging out. I’ve experimented with a few recipes…some successful and others not at all. I also got to make my grandmother’s birthday gift, which I think turned out pretty well considering it was my first try using a grapevine wreath AND incorporating cotton bolls. If you’re wondering why I put bolls of cotton in a wreath, I have two very good reasons. One: my dad used to be a cotton farmer, so the plant is special to my family, and two: I LOVE cotton. I love the memories of trumping cotton as a kid, the feel of cotton (esp in the form of a comfy tee), the look of cotton growing in a field, Cotton commercials, cotton used in floral arrangements, and what cotton represents (a simple natural resource, grown in the USA, used to make clothes for people all over the world). Anyway, I think it turned out pretty…

I like the simplicity of the colors and incorporating different fabrics, like burlap. So, what do ya think? Honestly. I’ve considered making these to sell, but I want to know if people would actually buy them…or even want them! I’d love your feedback.

Also, I'm thinking of trying my hand at embroidery. Let me know if you have any advice, warnings, or resources to begin.

Thanks all! Have a great weekend!!

-Stephanie