photo friday *

I wish I were attending Oklahoma's Semi-Centennial Exposition (a.k.a Oklahoma's Birthday Party for the World) this weekend, but sadly no such plans are on the horizon. I am planning on breaking this week's cycle of slackerdom and getting the ball rolling on a couple new projects. I'll also be celebrating an old friend's return to town. The longer I live in this place, the more I understand it's boomerang effect- people leave... but they always come back.

*photo found on treasuring

birthday greetings *

Today is my mom's birthday and I wanted to send her a happy birthday wish.

Looking forward to to seeing you soon!

XOXO, Jordan

having my cake and eating it too *

Oh boy, I had such a great time at my first arts market on Sunday! Minus the wicked sunburn and 30 mi/hr wind gusts, I'd say it was a perfect day. I sold a lot of stuff to a lot of really nice folks and had so much fun meeting people and spending time with D and our sweet friends from the Wild Hair Beadery (our neighboring booth). I was so preoccupied that I forgot to take a picture of my set-up at the beginning of the day.

Because of my diminished inventory, I'll probably put off the etsy store a bit longer. I am, however, looking forward to selling work in a couple more local stores pretty soon. I'll let you know the details.

above: my booth about half way through the day, and some friends posing (or dancing) with new loot :)

be there *

Dustbowl Arts Market tomorow, Sunday 11:00 am- 5:00 pm. Come see me!

weed out *

Yesterday I discovered german artist Christiane Löhr in my new copy of Sculpture. I found myself drawn to the odd, quiet beauty of these diaphanous structures made from materials like thistle seeds and dandilions.

Löhr's work brought to mind Jan Yager's "Tiara of Useful Knowledge." Last year, I attended a lecture Yager gave at an exhibition of american craft in OKC. Her distinctive jewelry incorporates portrayals of city flora (as in weeds poking up through sidewalk cracks). I love how these two artists find and illuminate the unique beauty and power in these marginalized garden invaders, and I must say- allergens have never been so appealing.

P.S. Happy Earth Day, earthlings!

animal encounters *

Recently, D and I have had a couple of close animal encounters. Last week, I stuck my hand in the middle of a dog fight, (something I'm pretty sure I'll never do again) and ended up with a small bite. And D, well... let's just say he made friends with the wrong critter.

Yesterday, while working in my studio, I looked out the window to see D feeding a squirrel some cashews. At that very moment, one part of my brain said, "bang on the window and end this nonsense!" while another part said, "aww cute, get your camera." As you've probably guessed, I chose the latter, and watched as D's face turned from delight to horror when his little buddy turned on him.

Now, these were poor decisions, ok- stupid decisions, but I know we're not alone in our zest for animal interaction and companionship. Just this weekend I listened to a really interesting (and oddly relevent) episode of Radio Lab called Animal Minds. It really got me thinking about the complex relationships humans forge with domestic and wild animals. I recommend taking a listen; and while I'm making recommendations, I recommend keeping your hand out of animal mouths.

above: dapper squirrels by Berkley Illustration

below: my furry family- Dingus and Maeby (the master of disaster)

handmade housewares*

My husband has been lathing away, making these beautiful wine stoppers for those of us who might have a little trouble stopping wine from being poured (you know who you are).

I've been working on these bright little bedside companions. The shade on the left is made from printed Washi paper, and the shade on the right is a vintage topographical map. Last but not least, these printed tea towels and napkins are perfect for cleaning you up right.

As you can probably guess, these housewares will be available for purchase at the Dustbowl Arts Market on April 25 (that's this Sunday, people), and... soon, on my long time coming etsy page!

a spring in my step *

Spring always makes me feel like some weird hybrid of Carrie Bradshaw and Laura Ingalls Wilder. I get the urge to romp around in a sunny field and live off the land, but I want to be wearing a new outfit while I'm doing it.

Sadly, I've been wasting most of this gorgeous weather held up at work, or when I'm at home, held up in my studio. Don't worry though, I've been getting some occasional sun exposure, eating lots of ice cream, and doing lots of sneezing - in an attempt to get into the spring spirit.

There is one outdoor activity that I'm particularly resolved to take part in, and that is the up-keep of our small veggie garden. D is definitely the plant man of the house, and I'm ashamed to say that my assistance with our past gardening endeavors has been limited to picking and eating. This year I've decided to get my hands dirty, and I'm determined to do more good than harm. This may, however, prove to be a lofty goal for a cactus killer like me.

I've been making these springy tees, and accessories to sell at the Dustbowl. So, if you need a little spruce-up in your wintery wardrobe, you know where to find me on April 25.

What projects are you undertaking this spring?

count me collected *

Hey Oklahomans! Many of you are probably already familiar with a charming little shop called Collected Thread and it's equally delightful owner Lindsay Zudrow. If not, you must make a point to visit next time you're in OKC. You'd better come prepared (with your wallet that is), this place is seriously irresistible. You can find a great collection of mostly local, thoroughly lovable handmade goods- you might even see a little something made by you know who.

*pics via Collected Thread