Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Splendid Finds - Heidi & Finn

Around this time last year, I made a list of things I wanted to accomplish before my next birthday. One of the items on this list was to make clothes for my niece, Sophia. December approached, and that check-box on my list remained empty. So, I was tremendously excited to come across Heidi & Finn -- an Etsy shop full of patterns for modern, chic children's clothes.

Once you purchase a pattern it is emailed to you in a PDF file. The file includes the pattern in a range of sizes and a full step-by-step tutorial complete with color photographs. The tutorials make it really easy for a novice sewer, like myself.

I used the Sweet Pocket Pinafore pattern and made a Christmas outfit for Sophie. I substituted ruffles for the suggested pocket, but otherwise stuck with the pattern.



From the back:


Since Christmas, I have made a few other things for her, including this hoodie:




If you are not much of a DIY-er, Heidi & Finn Studio sells ready-to-wear clothing and accessories with a similar aesthetic and cuteness factor. Enjoy!

Monday, January 17, 2011

In the Kitchen - Sweet Potato and Black Bean Lasagna

Last week I came across this recipe for Sweet Potato and Black Bean Lasagna, via Kathleen of Jeremy & Kathleen. Unusual, for sure, but intriguing none the less. I gave it a try and was very pleased with the results. The leftovers were great, too!

It's an easy recipe, but definitely not quick, as you have to roast the sweet potatoes before layering them into your lasagna. I used a standard size ceramic souffle dish, and the smaller size corn tortillas fit perfectly inside.



I'll definitely make it again, and thought you might like to give it a go as well! Thanks, Kathleen!

Poppytalk Handmade - Love Transforms

Starting today, I am part of the "Love Transforms" market over at Poppytalk Handmade -- and I'm so excited! In their own words, Poppytalk Handmade is "an online 'curated' and monthly-themed marketplace exhibition site which showcases handmade and vintage goods from around the world."

This month's market includes love themed items (just in time for Valentine's Day!) and items perfectly suited for handmade weddings.

You can visit my table here:

Music Monday - Fleet Foxes

Sorry for the very unintentional absence. I am happy to be back, and excited for what this next season has to offer. This week's Music Monday pick is "White Winter Hymnal" by Fleet Foxes. I have to say that, while I do love Winter, I am longing for a bit more daylight, slightly longer days. This video made me want it even more.