Saturday, September 27, 2008

In Memoriam--Paul Newman



The world is diminished today with the loss of Paul Newman. It is easy to be a fan of Cool Hand Luke, but Newman's philanthropy is what astounds me the most.

My first introduction to Newman was in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. He was quite a Brick--a pretty brave role for any man to play during that time. I promptly followed that viewing with Long Hot Summer and then the rest of his work followed.

In 2003, I saw Newman live in the Broadway production of "Our Town" that moved from his wife's Connecticut theater. He played the role of the Stage Manager and one image of him in that role is indelible for me. After visiting her childhood, when Emily is overwhelmed by all she didn't notice, she begs the Stage Manager to "take her back" to her grave. As the Stage Manager sitting on Emily's grave, Newman responded by holding his arms open wide. God should greet us all that way.

Words Newman spoke in that role are comforting me tonight, "We all know that something is eternal. And it ain't houses and it ain't names, and it ain't earth, and it ain't even the stars . . . everybody knows in their bones that something is eternal, and that something has to do with human beings. All the greatest people ever lived have been telling us that for five thousand years and yet you'd be surprised how people are always losing hold of it. There's something way down deep that's eternal about every human being." Thank you Thornton Wilder.

Thank you, Mr. Newman. For your performances, your humanity, your kindness and your joy. You will be greatly missed.

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Ten Minute Headband Tutorial



Ten Minutes--seriously! I know many headband makers painstakingly sew, flip, iron, top stitch and attach elastic. This is my easy way of having a similar effect in 1/3 the time.


Materials: You will need the following: a 4"-6" x 22" piece of material (20" or 18" if you are making if for a child or toddler), a hair band of your favorite variety, thread.


Step 1: Cut your material to the appropriate size and iron flat.





Step 2: Fold in half lengthwise (the hot dog way for those of you with children) and iron.



Step 3: Fold one edge to the center and iron. Do the same to the other edge.




Step 4: Fold the material in half along the first iron mark and iron flat.



Step 5: Top stitch one side of the strip, then the other.




Step 6: Fold over 1/4" of end and iron. Fold that again 1/2" and iron. Repeat at other end.





Step 7: Place the hair band inside the flap created by the 1/2" fold and pin. Repeat at other end.




Step 8: Zig-zag along the casing for the hair band on each end.



Step 9: Wear!




Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Wristlet Purse Giveaway


I would love for someone to have some of the things I make. . . This little wristlet is perfect for this fall/winter--a rich brocade in a yummy, deep turquoise color. It is fully lined and could be yours. Just leave a comment and I'll pull a name from a hat on September 30th and announce a winner. Free purse--whoo hoo, as my son would say.

Monday, September 15, 2008

Best Kid's Music Ever

http://www.youaremyflower.org/home.html
These songs will melt your heart! You will enjoy them as much as your children do. The lovely acoustic instruments coupled with familiar tunes creatively done will make play time and car rides so much for you and your children. Had to share this one--hope you enjoy!