Self Care

 Taking care of myself has been my M.O. these days, and it feels pretty good.  I've been running again, and although I'm extremely pokey, it just doesn't seem to matter.  One of my self-preservation techniques involves not passing judgement on what I do; I just make sure that my intention is true, and go from there.  What a freeing concept!  So I "run" two times around Capitol Lake, which is a 1.5 mile loop of easy, flat, and not paved terrain.  Mergansers, Buffleheads, Blue Herons, and other waterfowl frequent these waters, and I find that I can get a nice meditation in while I run.  Pictured here is a male Hooded Merganser, who was fishing.  Below is a shot of Capitol lake looking towards downtown Olympia.

I also just made myself a new bag.  This is my Medium Sized messenger bag.  It's smaller than the bigger Diaper bag that I make, but it can still fit a standard file folder and all of my essentials (water bottle, cell phone, lip balm, day planner, book, and an extra pair of socks (you never know when you might need those!)).  I found this awesome fabric and knew I had to have it.  It is distributed by Alexander Henry and it is a home decor weight; feels a bit like a lightweight canvas.  And Mom, if you're reading this, your two bags are all cut out (finally) and ready to be sewn.  I haven't forgotten!

Little Birdy Bag

Well, I've finally finished the diaper bag that I've been working on for what seems like forever! It came out well, I think, and my girlfriend is finding it useful! I made it using a lovely firm wool fabric, and also fabric from the AMAZING Michelle Engel Bencsko of Cicada Daydream. The fabric is linen and is her original design. Isn't it sweet? It took me a while to get this bag designed the way I wanted, but after using the prototype for a while, I made some changes and I think it's now ready to declare as "perfect!" It features two pleated end pockets, a bank of three pockets under the flap plus a zippered pocket, and three interior pockets. Also, it has a key fob inside the bag (not too long; I hate having to fish for my keys) and a D-ring just under the flap to attach a toy or a pacifier. The cool thing about this bag is that it can be used as a bookbag instead of a diaper bag; it's versatile! I guess I'm feeling a little bit proud of myself. Let me know what you think!

Messenger Bag/Diaper Bag-Prototype

Messanger Bag/Diaper Bag-Prototype
Originally uploaded by BCharmer

Well, my daughter is starting kindergarten this month, and at the same time I got asked to design a diaper bag for a local natural baby boutique. I thought, why not combine one design and make it flexible enough to have two functions. So after much pattern cutting and measuring and thinking, this new messanger style bookbag/diaper bag was born. So my daughter is having her first day at kindergarten BY HERSELF today. I have been there for a week and a half every day to make sure that everyone feels safe and comfortable (Mom, included). But this nifty bookbag is in Bronwyn's cubby, and it makes me glad for her to have such a friendly and stylish accessory that was designed by me and made with my two hands with love for her. After using it for a while, I have decided to make a few small changes to it, but for the most part, I think it's great.