We went to a birthday party

In the early day of motherhood, I was frustrated because I didn't know any other families nearby with kids that my kids can play with.  I tried to compare with my childhood, where all I needed is to step out and not only there was always kids outside, but they were the same kids that I called and still call friends.

In the early day of motherhood, I didn't realize that all I needed is some time and patience.  Time back then seemed to drag.  I was constantly tired and almost never got enough sleep.  But now that both of my kids are of school age, there is always invitations to birthday parties and school functions, that not only has helped my kids made friends, but it has helped me in getting to know other parents.  

So in the last year or two, I find myself at birthday parties, seeing the same kids, the same parents.

It's a good thing.  

Ready for Halloween

And we are ready for Halloween, except for the costumes.  We haven't decided on the costumes yet.

And also, the pumpkin on the left got all molded, so we no longer have that one (it was my daughters).  And I am sure that by Halloween my son's pumpkin will be molded as well.

Luckily we have a couple of fake ones, along with fake brains, ears, fingers, skulls, grave stones.....just some of the things around the house.

Needlefelting

A needlefelted cactus garden is growing in my house.  These are so fun to make.  Except, I can no longer find the miniature pots I used here.  I can find smaller, or bigger, but not the same size (1.25" or 3cm).

I am beginning to think that in order to accomplish everything I want in a day, I need the day to have 10 extra hours.  I am sure many understand this.

In the last week, I took two crafty workshop, and one dance workshop.  The dance workshop was last night, hosted by Phoenix International Folk Dancers.  They had a guest teacher from Bulgaria.  It has been over a year since I've gone.  Last time I went, the kids were with me and they weren't on their best behavior, and I had to leave.  I felt embarrassed and it has taken me this long to show up again.  But I had fun last night dancing, and seeing my old friends.

Last Thursday I took a workshop taught by one of my friends, a local crafter.  She taught contact sheet transfers, and these are the results.

And then on Saturday I took a needle felting workshop, and I made a gnome and a lamb.  I love lamby, he is small and soft and very kissable.

Loteria

Ever since I stumbled upon a piece of Mexican Loteria game, I've been obsessed with the images.  And off course I am extra lucky to live a mile from a Rancho Market - a Hispanic Grocery store that has these game boards, complete with some 20 tables and a deck of cards for less than $5.  

I messed around the other night with cutting up the images and trying to figure out what to do with them.  And since one of the local stores where I sell some of my work asked for more cards, I ended up making cards.