A Keeper

2.07.2008



It's rare that I ever make anything for myself. It's a sad drawback to crafting for a living that many of us don't find the time to create things for ourselves. But today is different.







I had intended to stock this bag at some point in the indefinite future, as I mentally pieced the fabrics together. But once I laid them out on my work table, I suspected I couldn't let this sweet songbird bird go. I've had a real thing for birds lately, well ever since we moved to Georgia. We have the ideal backyard habitat for all kinds of birds, with over 30 pine trees and 15 or so of the deciduous variety--and when we started putting out bird seed and filling the bird baths, we couldn't believe all the different kinds of birds that came to visit us. We got ourselves a field guide, and compiled a list, which exceeded 30 different species in a matter of days. In the springtime, the cardinals brought their babies to feed on our deck railing. And then came the goldfinches, who, by the way, have a major thing for thistle.

If you're interested in learning more, check out the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, which has an incredible wealth of information, and even has recordings of bird songs that you can listen to. Also, the National Audubon Society has lots of information on creating backyard bird habitats, environmental and other issues, and hosts annual bird counts, where amateur birdwatchers contribute to a national bird census. So cool.

But back to the bag. I really enjoy making these library totes; they have such a clean, classic shape, and yet are roomy enough for a nice stack of magazines and/or books. I forsee a lot of shopping in this tote's future, however...

Take care, and, you know, go feed some birds!

Kim

4 comments:

  1. I am glad you are keeping that for yourself! It came out steller!

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  2. Reading this post made me:

    #1. Really miss all of the birds that flew south (to Georgia ;) for the winter.

    #2. Think of the scene in Mary Poppins where they feed the birds.

    #3. Love your bag! I'm happy you're keeping it for yourself.

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  3. I am friend to all book totes and I really love this one. You're right to keep it for yourself and what you say about us crafters is quite true. It's rare we get around to creating for ourselves . And what a wonderful excuse to go shopping to show it off and fill it to the brim with neat finds. :)

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